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2026 Highland Lakes Spring Launch Guide: Lake Levels, White Bass Run, and Zebra Mussel Alert

Feb. 19 2026 News By Rusty Weed

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As we hit mid-February 2026, the Highland Lakes are looking better than they have in years. Following the massive "Summer Comeback" of 2025, boaters in Horseshoe Bay and Kingsland are facing a completely different landscape this spring.

At Bay Marine and Sports Center, we’ve been the anchor of Lake LBJ for over 45 years. Today, we’re filling you in on the three things every boater needs to know before hitting the water this weekend: where the water is, where the fish are, and how to avoid a $500 fine.

1. State of the Lake: Is Lake Buchanan Full?

The short answer is: Almost.

As of February 19, 2026, Lake Buchanan is at 94% capacity, sitting at an elevation of 1,017.63 feet MSL. This is a staggering 6.85 feet above the historical February average. For those who remember the low-water years of the early 2020s, this is a total game-changer.

Pro Tip for Lake Travis Boaters: While Lake Travis is still recovering at 78% capacity, Lake LBJ remains at its constant level (~824.8 ft MSL). We are seeing a major "boater migration" to our neck of the woods because our ramps, like the Wirtz Dam/Cottonwood Ramp, are fully operational and deep.

New Policy Alert: Remember that since January 1, 2025, the LCRA has moved Lake Buchanan to a year-round conservation pool of 1,020 feet. No more seasonal drawdowns means more stable boating all year long.


2. The 2026 White Bass Run is LIVE

If you’ve been asking "When does the white bass run start?", the answer is right now.

Current water temperatures on Lake LBJ and Inks Lake are oscillating between 58°F and 60°F. This is the "Goldilocks" zone for the migration. Schools are currently moving up the Llano River arm and Cowhouse Creek.

Where to go: The Kingsland Slab remains the premier destination. The Kingsland Slab RV Camp is currently offering 750 feet of river frontage for public fishing access.

What to use: Reports show that crappie are in a pre-spawn pattern near the 21 Bridge, responding well to jigs in 15–30 feet of water. For white bass, look for the birds working over schools in the main channels.



3. Zebra Mussels: New 2026 Enforcement & Decontamination

Invasive species are a serious threat to the Highland Lakes. Following a new detection in Fort Phantom Hill Lake late last year, Texas Game Wardens are out in force.

The Law: It is illegal to transport zebra mussels (knowingly or unknowingly) in Texas. Failure to "Clean, Drain, and Dry" your boat can result in a fine of up to $500 per violation.

If you are moving your boat between different bodies of water (especially if you're visiting from Austin or North Texas), you must follow these 2026 decontamination standards:

Exterior/Hull: Wash with high-pressure water at 140°F for at least 10 seconds of contact.

Interior/Ballast: Flush internal compartments and ballast tanks with 120°F water.


4. Hazard Alert: The 2025 "Debris Legacy"

While the high water is great for surfing, the July 2025 floods introduced a significant amount of submerged debris into the Highland Lakes. Hazards are still being reported in the northern end of Lake Buchanan and the river arms of Lake LBJ.

Don't let a hidden log ruin your spring break. We’ve saved countless "weekend-enders" with our same-day propeller repair and minor mechanical service. If you feel a vibration or hit something, swing by our Horseshoe Bay location immediately.


Plan Your Spring Break (March 14–22)

Spring Break 2026 is just around the corner, and the Hill Country is packed with events :

March 13–16: Paint the Town (Marble Falls)

March 21: Public Boat Demo Day at Bay Marine & Sports Center. 

Ready to upgrade? The "LBJ Chop" is no match for the Centurion Opti-V Hull or the luxury of a Premier 250 Sunsation. Whether you need a demo or just a fresh bag of ice from Smoozer’s Ship’s Store, we’ll see you at the dock!


Summary of Changes:

  • Lake Levels: Updated with exact Feb 19, 2026 data (94% full for Buchanan).

  • Fishing: Integrated water temps (58-60°F) and specific location (Kingsland Slab).

  • AEO Targets: Added direct answers for "Lake levels," "White bass run," and "Zebra mussel fines."

  • Community: Included the March 2026 event calendar to boost local search relevance.