For a lot of our guests, the lake is the whole reason for the trip. Lake Somerville is about 11,000 acres, and Overlook Park & Marina sits on it in Brenham with two miles of lake frontage and three calm coves. This guide covers getting on the water, where to fish from here, and what to know before you go.
We are a place to launch, fuel up, and stay. For current conditions, always check a recent, dated report from a named source, such as Texas Parks and Wildlife. We do not post catch reports or water temperatures here because they change by the day.
What people fish for
Anglers on Lake Somerville commonly fish for largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, and catfish. It is not a one-species lake, which suits a mixed group. Someone can work the bank while someone else soaks bait off the dock.
Early morning and the last hour before sunset are the usual windows, in any season. The water is best March through November, but we are open year-round.
Getting on the water
- Public boat ramp. $10 to launch, for everyone, guests included.
- The only on-water fuel station on Lake Somerville. Fuel up at the marina without leaving the water.
- Boat slips. Covered and open slips are $30 a night or $250 a month.
- Kayaks, canoes and paddle boards. $50 a day each.
See the marina page for details. The marina store carries tackle and supplies, and ice is $3, so a forgotten item does not end the trip.
Fishing from the bank and the dock
You do not need a boat. Bank fishing works along the shoreline, especially early and late in the day. The covered dock is a comfortable spot to hand a kid their first rod: no waves, a rail to lean on, and the water right there. The park map shows the shoreline and dock areas.
Tournament days
Bass tournaments are part of life on this lake. Trucks and trailers line up at the ramp, boats stage before sunrise, and the whole shoreline goes quiet and focused. You do not have to enter to enjoy the energy. If tournament weekends matter to you, ask us at (979) 289-2321 what is on the calendar, and book early, since sites fill.
Fishing with kids
A first fish often happens close to camp. Bank fishing along the shoreline suits young kids who would rather wander than sit still. Life jackets on the little ones, a bucket, and patience cover most of it.
License and what to bring
Anglers generally need a valid Texas fishing license. Check Texas Parks and Wildlife for who needs one and where to buy it before you arrive. Beyond that, bring sunscreen and a hat, layers for fall mornings, a cooler, and your own rods and tackle.
Where to stay
- RV sites. 30-amp $40 a night, 50-amp $50, Full Hookup $65. Only Full Hookup sites have sewer. There is a dump station on the property.
- Cabins. From $120 a night, with a kitchenette, linens, dishes, towels, and a coffee maker. Sleeps up to six. See cabins and stays.
- Tent sites. $35 with electric and water, $30 for primitive.
Pets are welcome in all lodging for $10 per pet per night, two maximum. Weekends have a two-night minimum. Check-in is 3:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM. Fall hours are Sunday through Wednesday 6am to 6pm and Thursday through Saturday 6am to 10pm, for the park, gatehouse, marina store, and ramp.
Plan your stay
Overlook has been on this lake since 1970: 138 acres with over 100 RV sites, cabins, boat rentals, and all the other fun stuff we have going on. We are about 45 minutes from College Station, about 1.5 hours from Houston, and about 1.5 hours from Austin. Start with Plan Your Visit, then book your stay.
Rod in hand, cooler packed, sun coming up over the water. Lake life. Lasting memories.
