Toledo Bend - Patroon Bayou Paddling Trail
Enjoy a great loop paddling trail on the Patroon Bayou arm of Toledo Bend Reservoir - no shuttle needed! With up to 8 miles of paddling possible, this trail is a great way to explore the upper reaches of the lake.
Trail Access
Holly Park Marina
- Type:
- Access Point
- GPS Coordinates:
- 31.5223, -93.8012
3000 E. Carters Ferry Rd.
Milam, TX 77959
www.HollyParkMarina.com
$5 launch fee for kayaks
From the junction of Texas Highways 87 and 21 in Milam, Texas, drive on SH 87 north 5.1 miles to the junction of SH 87 and FM 276 (E. Carters Ferry Road). Turn right (east) on FM 276; go 2.7 miles to Holly Park Marina (on right immediately before the bridge).
Navigating the Trail
Trail Length: 2-8 miles (depending on route taken)
Float Time: 2-6 hours (depending on water level, route taken, wind speed, and time spent doing other activities like fishing)
Please note: Paddlers crossing the open water portion of the trail may experience exposure to high wind and waves. Please be sure to paddle at your skill level.
Trail Description
Explore Patroon Bayou to experience a taste of the Toledo Bend Reservoir by canoe or kayak. Paddlers can paddle for as little or as much as their time allows since this is a loop trail that heads back into the bayou, using the same access site for put-in and take-out. Since this bayou is attached to the larger reservoir, be sure to stay aware of high winds, waves, the weather, and motorized boats that may be in the area.
Private Property
Respect private property by not trespassing or littering and keeping noise levels down. Any use of private river banks or lake shore without permission of the landowner can be considered trespassing. Under Texas Penal Code (§30.05), criminal trespass occurs when one enters property after receiving notice not to enter. Notice includes verbal notice, a fence, sign(s), purple paint on posts or trees, or the visible presence of crops grown for human consumption.
Trail Map
Things to Do and See
Fishing and Wildlife
Birdwatching is good all year long. Summertime species include wood ducks, egrets, herons, buntings and storks. Sparrows, mallards, pintails and teals are wintertime inhabitants. Other wildlife present includes squirrel, raccoon, deer, coyote, opossum and feral hog. Remember to keep a safe distance between you and wildlife.
Largemouth bass are the most popular game fish at Toledo Bend. Small lures such as jigs, plastic worms, spinner baits and light-line are generally recommended. Plenty of bluegill and sunfish are present and provide excellent fishing, especially for youth or inexperienced anglers. White bass, crappie and catfish can also be caught. Check Weekly Fishing Reports for timely updates.
Rentals and Shuttles
Toledo Bend Kayak Rental LLC
(936) 201-6495
Partnership
This trail was made possible through a partnership between the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Sabine County, and Sabine River Authority.