Springtime brings out the best of nature.

Dead tree branch extending over calm water surface in Alba TX fishing area

Where the deer and the Great Herons live

Largemouth Bass

 Windy banks and points are the play in spring. 

I try to avoid catching these rough fish even though they are beautiful. They stink. 

Longnose Gar

Caught bass and gar today. The gar came on a top water as he was passing by with a lady friend. The bass all came on windy banks and points. 

7 wt fly rod caught the bass on a streamer. Caught the gar on a top water.

Largemouth bass caught during fishing tour in Alba TX

Fresh caught squid in Alba TX showing tentacles and yellow coloring

Freshly caught bass being held up during fishing trip in Alba TX

Another Lake Fork Beauty! 

Built on a Passion for Fishing on Lake Fork

Ruler of the creek, this dude has been in this creek for 15 years at least.

Lake Fork Fishing with a Trusted Partner

Strong Lake Fork Fly Fishing Action Today

Carching some nice size crappie on the fly. Lake Fork is fishing really good right now. Contact me for a bass and crappie trip. Getting busy so hurry up...alex@flyfishfork.com.

Quality Crappie and Bass Action on Lake Fork Right Now

Richard had to work hard to get that fish, good job Richard! 

Springtime fishing in Lake Fork 

Nothing brings me more pleasure than to have a successful day on the water with a client. Good job Richard!  

Post Spawn Bass Bite Heating Up on Lake Fork

<p>Alex Guthrie is a dedicated Lake Fork fishing guide offering personalized fly fishing trips designed for anglers who want more than just time on the water. With over 60 years of fishing experience and 7 years of guiding, Alex brings a calm, patient, and highly instructional approach to every trip on Lake Fork, Texas. After retiring from a long career in construction, he turned his full attention to fly fishing and built a guide service focused on sharing knowledge, improving technique, and creating meaningful days outdoors.</p><p><br></p><p>Lake Fork is widely known for its trophy bass, but what sets this experience apart is the focus on flat water fly fishing for warm water species. Instead of traditional casting methods, guests learn how to target largemouth bass, crappie, and other species using fly techniques rarely offered in this region. Whether you're new to fly fishing or looking to refine your skills, each trip is tailored to your pace and experience level, with hands-on coaching throughout the day.</p><p><br></p><p>Trips are offered as half-day and full-day guided fishing experiences, typically ranging from 4 to 7 hours on the water. Alex keeps groups small, hosting up to two guests for fishing trips to ensure a focused and productive outing. All rods, reels, and gear are provided, so you can simply arrive ready to fish. A valid Texas fishing license is required prior to the trip.</p><p><br></p><p>Beyond fishing, Alex also offers eco and nature tours on Lake Fork, giving guests a chance to explore the area's rich wildlife. These relaxed trips can accommodate up to four guests and often include sightings of alligators, bald eagles, wild hogs, and other native species. For something different, nighttime fly fishing trips are also available, offering a quiet and unique way to experience the lake after dark.</p><p><br></p><p>Running trips aboard a 20-foot G3 aluminum center console powered by a Yamaha 115HP engine, Alex ensures a smooth and comfortable ride across the lake. The boat is well-suited for fly fishing and designed for safety and stability.</p><p><br></p><p>If you're searching for a Lake Fork fly fishing guide who values teaching, patience, and a personal connection to the water, Alex Guthrie delivers a truly one-on-one experience built around skill, knowledge, and time well spent outdoors.</p>

About Our Company

<p>Book your Lake Fork fly fishing trip with Fly Fish Fork today and experience hands-on guided bass fishing with a trusted Lake Fork fishing guide. Secure your spot now and enjoy a private, family-friendly fishing trip built around skill, comfort, and real results on the water.</p>

<p>Book your trip today with a trusted Lake Fork fishing guide offering family-friendly experiences built around comfort, learning, and consistent results. Fly Fish Fork specializes in guided fly fishing trips on Lake Fork Texas, targeting largemouth bass, crappie, and other warm water species in one of the top fisheries in the state. With over 60 years of fishing experience and 7 years of guiding, Captain Alex Guthrie brings deep local knowledge and a patient, teaching-focused approach that works well for beginners, families, and experienced anglers alike. Each trip is tailored to your skill level, with hands-on instruction in casting, presentation, and reading water conditions to help you improve throughout the day. As a private fishing guide Lake Fork TX, trips are kept small for a more personal experience, giving every guest the attention they need to succeed. All gear is provided, and trips are run on a comfortable, well-equipped boat designed for fly fishing. Whether you’re planning your first outing or returning to refine your skills, this is a great way to enjoy Lake Fork guided fishing trips with a knowledgeable captain who knows where and how to find fish.</p>

<h2>Fishing with Fly Fish Fork - Rates & Booking</h2><p>Guide Fly Fish Fork of Fly Fish Fork offers fishing and tours adventures on Wednesday, April near Alba, Texas. This guided experience provides hands-on instruction in targeting and understanding spotted gar in their natural habitat. For current rates, availability, and booking details, contact Fly Fish Fork directly to reserve your spot on Lake Fork.</p><h2>Highlights of Your Fishing Experience</h2><p>Lake Fork offers exceptional opportunities to observe and fish for spotted gar, a prehistoric-looking species adapted to shallow, vegetation-rich waters. The combination of aquatic vegetation and clear shallow areas creates ideal conditions for spotting these unique fish and understanding their feeding behavior and habitat preferences.</p><p>Your guide will teach you to identify spotted gar in their natural environment and explain how they navigate shallow water ecosystems. This hands-on learning opportunity connects anglers with one of Texas's most distinctive freshwater species while showcasing the natural beauty of Alba's wetland environments.</p><h2>Local Species Insights: Spotted Gar</h2><p>Spotted gar represent a living link to ancient fish lineages, characterized by their elongated snouts, armored scales, and distinctive spotted patterns. These fish are highly adapted to shallow, vegetation-dense waters like those found around Lake Fork near Alba, where they hunt small fish and crustaceans with remarkable precision.</p><p>Understanding spotted gar behavior is key to the fishing and tours experience in this region. These fish are ambush predators that use aquatic vegetation as cover while waiting for prey. They prefer shallow areas with dense plant growth, which explains why the vegetation-rich shallows near Alba are prime habitat. Unlike many fish species, spotted gar are air-breathers, surfacing regularly to gulp oxygen from the air - a behavior you may observe during your guided experience.</p><p>The shallow water environment they inhabit also makes them accessible for observation and photography. Their armor-like scales and primitive appearance make them fascinating subjects for anglers interested in Texas's unique ichthyology. Lake Fork's clear shallow waters provide excellent visibility for studying these fish in their natural state, making it an ideal location for educational fishing adventures.</p><p>Your guide will explain how spotted gar interact with the broader Lake Fork ecosystem, including their role as predators and their relationship with aquatic vegetation. This knowledge deepens your appreciation for why this specific location near Alba is prized by those seeking authentic freshwater fishing experiences that combine technical skill with environmental education.</p>

<p>Join Fly Fish Fork on a fishing and tours adventure in Alba, Texas this Wednesday, April to explore Lake Fork's unique ecosystem. Learn about spotted gar behavior in shallow water habitats and discover what makes this location exceptional for anglers seeking an educational and hands-on fishing experience.</p>

Alligator partially submerged in shallow water among aquatic vegetation near Alba, Texas

<h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus oculatus) Fish Description</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">With its long streamlined body, long snout, and prominent rows of teeth, the Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus oculatus) can be an intimidating sight, especially for a novice angler. As the name implies, its body is covered with dark spots. Its body is mostly olive or brownish in color on top from the head to the tail base but lightens a bit at the belly. Its body is also covered with hard, diamond-shaped scales called ganoids that protect the fish from predators, which are not actually that many except for other gar species.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">The Spotted Gar is known as a voracious predator that hunts for food mostly at night. During the day, it remains stationary near fallen trees or brush. It preys mainly on crayfish, crabs, and other aquatic crustaceans. Nonetheless, it will still eat other fishes including bass, shiners, catfish, and even those larger than itself given the opportunity. It uses its coloration as camouflage as it lays still on soft, muddy bottoms and ambush unsuspecting victims. It can at times even wander in brackish waters in search of food.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Aside from its menacing appearance, one other feature that makes this fish unique is its specialized bladder that gives the fish the ability to survive in waters with low oxygen concentrations. This allows the Spotted Gar to adapt and inhabit streams, swamps, and other backwaters that are poorly oxygenated.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">&nbsp;</span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Interesting Facts About Spotted Gars</strong></span></h2><ul><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">The world record for biggest Spotted Gar measured a little over forty-one inches and weighs twelve pounds.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">The lucky angler who caught the world record Spotted Gar is Jerrime Tucker of Conway, Arkansas while bowfishing with a friend in Lake Conway.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">The females are mostly bigger than males.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Spotted Gar spawning starts in February and ends in June.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">They move to the shallow parts of the water with healthy vegetation during spawning season.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Their fertilized eggs are sticky and attach to aquatic plants until they hatch.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Their youngs mostly feed on mosquito larvae and small crustaceans.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">The freshwater fish has a long lifespan of about 18 years.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">As voracious predators, they play an essential role in their ecosystem’s balance.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">They are a primitive fish that exist that is said to have existed since the time of the dinosaurs.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">They are rarely caught for food.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Its eggs or roes are highly toxic to humans.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">They are sometimes considered a nuisance for anglers targeting other fishes as this fish is known to attack and compete for hooked fishes.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">&nbsp;</span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Spotted Gar Average Size and Swimming Speed</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Although they can swim a bit faster in short bursts if need be, Spotted Gars are not known to be fast swimmers. Most Gars are known to be slow swimmers. Unlike the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/alligator-gar"><span style="color:rgb(74,110,224);">Alligator Gar</span></a><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">&nbsp;that can grow really big, average size of the Spotted Gar tends to be around twenty to thirty inches long.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">&nbsp;</span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Spotted Gar Habitat and Distribution</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Like most gar species, the Spotted Gar prefers to swim around calm, clear pools and bays with plenty of water vegetations. It is usually found in lakes and swamps with soft mud bottoms where it hunts at night. During the day, they are often found near the surface resting near fallen logs, trees, or brush. As spawning season comes, adults tend to move to the shallow parts of the water of up to six to fifteen feet deep, again with lots of aquatic plants where they are known to lay their eggs.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">You can find plenty of these fish in the Great lakes as well as in Mississippi River drainages, and river drainages along the northern coast of the Gulf of Mexico—from the Nueces River in Texas to the lower Apalachicola River in Florida. It can also be found in the north and south shores of Lake Erie in northern Ohio, Michigan, and Ontario.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">&nbsp;</span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Spotted Gar Fishing Tips</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Spotted Gars are said to be fairly easy to hook whatever bait you’re going to use given their rather voracious eating tendency. But keep in mind that they can sometimes be a bit hard to land given their tenacious fighting spirit. Make sure that you’re equipped 6 foot spinning rod with a good quality reel with enough line to be able to handle the fish. A 14 to 30 pound braided line should be enough. You might also need a landing net to make it easier for you to land or bring the fish aboard your boat.</span></p>

Spotted Gar

Spotted Gar in Shallow Water - Alba, Texas

Discover spotted gar fishing with Fly Fish Fork on Lake Fork near Alba, Texas. Expert guide services for fishing and tours. Book online today.

Spotted Gar Fishing in Alba, TX - Fly Fish Fork

Lake Fork Fishing with Fly Fish Fork

Spotted Gar Fishing in Alba - What to Expect

Spotted Gar Fishing Guide in Alba, Texas

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<p>Captain Alex Guthrie is the heart behind Fly Fish Fork, a trusted Lake Fork fishing guide service built on a lifelong passion for the water. With over 60 years of fishing experience, Alex’s journey began long before guiding, shaped by decades of time spent learning patterns, refining techniques, and enjoying the outdoors. After retiring from a 40-year construction career in Dallas, he made the move to East Texas to focus on fly fishing full-time, turning a personal passion into a hands-on, teaching-driven guide service. His story resonates with guests looking for a knowledgeable and approachable guide who genuinely enjoys helping others succeed.</p><p><br></p><p>As a dedicated Lake Fork fly fishing guide, Alex brings years of local experience and a strong understanding of seasonal fish behavior. His trips are built around safety, patience, and clear instruction, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers. Known for his calm and focused approach, he helps guests improve casting, presentation, and water reading skills throughout each trip. This commitment to teaching and consistency is what makes Fly Fish Fork stand out as a reliable choice for guided bass fishing Lake Fork Texas.</p><p><br></p><p>What sets Alex apart is his focus on education and connection rather than just results. Each trip is an opportunity to learn something new, whether it’s refining fly techniques or understanding how bass and crappie move through Lake Fork. He also contributes fishing reports to Texas Parks and Wildlife, showing his involvement in the local fishing community and commitment to sharing knowledge. This approach has helped build strong relationships with returning guests who value both the experience and the skills they gain on the water.</p><p><br></p><p>Trips with Fly Fish Fork take place aboard a 20-foot G3 aluminum center console, powered by a Yamaha 115 horsepower engine and cruising comfortably at 30 to 35 mph. The boat is designed for stability and ease of casting, making it well-suited for fly fishing in Lake Fork’s varied conditions. With space for up to 2 anglers on fishing trips and up to 4 guests on eco tours, it offers a safe and comfortable setting for a day on the water. Whether you're booking a fishing trip or a family outing, this setup gives you a clear picture of a smooth, focused, and enjoyable experience with a dedicated Lake Fork guide.</p>

Your Lake Fork Fly Fishing Guide

Top rated 6 hour night fly fishing on Lake Fork targeting bass and crappie. Book your evening trip.

Night Bass Fun

Night Fly Fishing Lake Fork 6 Hour Bass Trip

Top rated 8 hour fly fishing trip targeting bass and crappie on Lake Fork. Book your guide today.

Bass Crappie Trip

Lake Fork Fly Fishing Guide Chaney Point TX

Discover things to do in Lake Fork TX, including parks, family activities, dining, and nearby attractions to plan your visit.

Things To Do

Things To Do in Texas

Get your Texas fishing license for Lake Fork trips with Fly Fish Fork. Learn requirements, prices, and where to buy before you fish.

Fishing License

Texas Fishing License

Premium Lake Fork eco tour featuring alligators, bald eagles, and wildlife viewing. Book today.

Lake Fork Eco

Lake Fork Eco Tour Wildlife Scenic Trip

Top rated 4 hour lake fly fishing at Chaney Point targeting bass and crappie. Book today.

Fork Fly Fun

4 Hour Fly Fish Fork Lake Trip Chaney Point TX

Join our expert guided 3 hour Lake Fork sunset tour. Wildlife viewing and scenic cruising. Book now.

Sunset Lake Tour

Lake Fork Sunset Tour 3 Hour Fly Fish Fork Trip

Discover Lake Fork fly fishing with Fly Fish Fork. Learn how guided trips target trophy bass on flat water and experience a new way to fish Texas’ top lake.

Art of the Fly

The Art of the Fly: Lake Fork Fly Fishing Beyond Trout Streams

<h3><em><u>Common Questions:</u></em></h3><h3>What’s included in a Fly Fish Fork fly fishing trip in Lake Fork?</h3><p>Fly Fish Fork guided fly fishing trips on Lake Fork include the boat, rods, reels, and all necessary fly fishing gear. You’ll also receive hands-on instruction from Captain Alex Guthrie, focusing on casting, presentation, and technique. Trips are designed to be simple and stress-free, so you can arrive ready to fish.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>How much does a full-day fly fishing trip cost in Lake Fork Texas?</h3><p>A full-day Lake Fork fly fishing trip with Fly Fish Fork is $450 for up to 2 guests. This gives you up to 8 hours on the water, allowing more time to target largemouth bass, crappie, and other warm water species with guided instruction throughout the day.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Do I need to bring my own fly fishing gear for Lake Fork guided trips?</h3><p>No, all fly fishing gear is provided for your Lake Fork guided fishing trip. This includes rods, reels, and flies suited for local conditions. However, experienced anglers are welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>What should I bring on a Lake Fork fly fishing trip?</h3><p>Guests should bring a valid Texas fishing license, sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, and drinks. Comfortable footwear and polarized sunglasses are also recommended for better visibility and comfort on the water.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>What species can I catch with a Lake Fork fly fishing guide?</h3><p>Fly Fish Fork trips primarily target largemouth bass, crappie, and other warm water species. Lake Fork is well known for its bass fishery, making it a top destination for anglers looking to catch quality fish using fly techniques.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>What is the best time of year for fly fishing on Lake Fork?</h3><p>Lake Fork offers productive fishing year-round, but spring and fall are especially good for targeting bass and crappie. Early mornings and late evenings typically provide the best conditions, especially for fly fishing.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Are Fly Fish Fork trips in Lake Fork good for beginners?</h3><p>Yes, these Lake Fork guided fly fishing trips are beginner-friendly. Captain Alex Guthrie focuses on teaching and works closely with each guest to build confidence and improve skills, making it a great option for first-time fly anglers.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Where do Lake Fork guided fishing trips with Fly Fish Fork start?</h3><p>All trips meet at Chaney Point Boat Ramp in Lake Fork, Texas. This location provides easy access to productive fishing areas and is convenient for guests staying near Emory and surrounding areas.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Are there family-friendly fishing or eco tours available on Lake Fork?</h3><p>Yes, Fly Fish Fork offers family-friendly options including eco tours and shorter trips. These outings are designed for a relaxed pace and can accommodate up to 4 guests, making them ideal for families or non-anglers.</p><h3><br></h3><h3>Do I need a fishing license for a Lake Fork fly fishing trip?</h3><p>Yes, a valid Texas fishing license is required for all fishing trips on Lake Fork. Licenses can be purchased through Texas Parks and Wildlife before your trip.</p>

Spotted Gar Fishing Guide in Alba, Texas

Spotted Gar Fishing in Alba - What to Expect

Fishing, Tours Adventures by Guide Fly Fish Fork in April

Meet your Guide Fly Fish Fork

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Fishing with Fly Fish Fork - Rates & Booking

Highlights of Your Fishing Experience

Local Species Insights: Spotted Gar

Fishing in Lake Fork:

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