Catch Some Fish in Mesquite Today
Bring your poles and bait box to Mesquite. Pack up the car for a fun day of fishing and escape the bustling city. As a part of the Texas Parks & Wildlife’s Neighborhood Fishin’ Program, the lake is routinely stocked with catfish and rainbow trout depending on the season. We suggest using the fishing pier as a perfect location for a big catch. For restocking days, please contact the Mesquite Parks and Recreation Department at 972.216.6260.
THE BEST MESQUITE FISHING SPOTS
While City Lake Park is the most popular urban fishing spot, there are several parks that are popular for fishing, City Lake Park, is filled with trout and catfish. Rainbow trout are usually stocked from November to the beginning of March, while catfish are stocked from April to October. Palos Verdes Lake Park has a wide variety of fish including bluegill and redear sunfish, and bass. Of course, every avid fisher will have their personal favorites, and below we’ve expanded upon three of ours!
1. City Lake Park
There are five lakes and ponds in Mesquite, TX that the Parks and Recreation Department tends to during the year. City Lake Park is one of them!
City Lake Park is great for fishing for Trouts and Catfish
The Rockwall County Herald-Banner explained that the Mesquite City Lake located in the park is regularly stocked with thousands of trout that grow to be big enough to eat. A bonus that the lake is part of the Texas Park & Wildlife’s Neighborhood Fishin’ Program so it’s also routinely stocked with catfish that you can catch off a dedicated fishing pier. August is the only time there are no fish big enough to catch and keep.
Remember, kids 16 and under fish for free, but adults much purchase a license!
2. PALOS VERDES LAKE PARK
Palos Verdes Lake Park recently underwent a significant restoration project that makes it an ideal place for fishing in Mesquite, TX. The new and improved dam ensures better flood control for the lake that is home to hundreds of fish, turtles, mussels, and mollusks.
The surrounding park is just as scenic as the lake. The trees provide plenty of shade along the walkway and you have a few fishing piers to choose from. Enjoy a tranquil day of fishing and get lost in your thoughts in this relaxing park or bring your friends for some conversation.
3. VALLEY CREEK PARK
For the best of lush greenery, play spaces, and fishing in Mesquite, TX, you should visit Valley Creek Park. Not only are there a few lakes stocked with fish that you can choose from, but there is also a beautiful green space, football fields, a software complex, and a playground.
You can fish all day long because when the kids lose focus, they can go play in the surrounding area! You’re likely to catch a catfish or bass while you’re there.
WHERE TO GET YOUR FISHING LICENSE
When fishing in one of our beautiful lakes there are a few things to keep in mind. Kids can always fish for free, but anyone over the age of 17 years old will need a fishing license with a freshwater fishing endorsement. Don’t let this stop you from getting out there and catching the big one. Signing up for a fishing license is simple and only takes a few minutes!
THE CITY’S FAMILY FISH EVENT
Family Fish event is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with the people you love. Arrive early for a chance to receive a free fishing rod!
*Limited to the first 100 kids ages 17 and under. No bait or tackle will be provided.*
Show off your fishing skills and participate in the shortest or longest fish tournament for a chance to win a prize. Competitions will be at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Event Details
City Lake Park, 200 Parkview St.
Saturday, September 19, 2026
9 a.m. to Noon
WHERE TO GRAB GRUB AND GEAR
Need to grab some extra bait, poles, or other fishing gear? Head to Dick’s Sporting Goods at Town East Mall or Academy Sports and Outdoors. To complete your outdoor adventure, be sure to bring your bikes or walking shoes to tackle the trails found in various parks. If you work up an appetite during the day, a few blocks from the lake you can visit Downtown Mesquite for lunch at Dos Panchas or head over to Martinez Restaurant for a sizzling fajita skillet. You can also explore the other restaurants found throughout the city.
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