TPWD 1974 F-5-R-21 #1592: Region I-B Fisheries Studies: Fisheries Management Recommendations, Federal Aid Project No. F-5-R-21

--- Page 1 --- PERFORMANCE REPORT As required by FEDERAL AID IN FISHERIES RESTORATION ACT TEXAS Federal Aid Project No. F-5-R-21 REGION I-B FISHERIES STUDIES Objective 13: Fisheries Management Recommendations Project Leader: Billy J. Follis Clayton T. Garrison Executive Director Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Austin, Texas Lonnie J. Peters Robert J. Kemp, Director Chief, Inland Fisheries Fisheries Division March 24 lo74 --- Page 2 --- Summary The objective of this study is to recommend management practices for the public waters of Region I-B. Fisheries surveys were conducted on 16 public lakes and two public streams in Region I-B to determine and recommend management practices. These surveys included fish sampling with gill nets and seines; collection of physical, hydrological and ecological data; aquatic vegetation checks, and water analysis. Preliminary meetings and public hearings were attended for the Permian Basin and Edwards Plateau Regulatory Districts. The existing fishing regulations were considered adequate for the existing fisheries resources and no changes were necessary. Supplementary hatchery stocking was the most common management activity recommended during this segment. Fifteen public lakes and six public streams received a total of 4,710,000 fry and 1,365,333 fingerlings of seven game fish species. The majority of these fish were supplied by the two San Angelo State Hatcheries. --- Page 3 --- State: PERFORMANCE REPORT Texas Project Number: F+5=R=21 Project Title: Region I-38 Fisheries Studies . 5 : pecersmner Project Section: Inventory _— ee Study Title: Fisheries Management Recommendations _ 7 Contract Period: . From March 1, 1973 To February 28, 1974 Program Narrative Objective No.: 13 PS Objectives: Il. T MW PON re o determine the need for in Region I-B waters, - Changes in fish harvest regulations Population control Stocking Vegetation control . Updating public access information. Segment Objectives: One through five above. Summary of Progress: Proposed fishing regulations were discussed with concerned Department personnel at preliminary meetings in the Edwards Plateau and Permian Basin Regulatory Districts. Current fisheries sur- vey data, existing fisheries regulations, and applicable developments in fisheries management elsewhere provided the basis for proposed fish harvest regulations. The resulting proposals were presented at public hearings in each county under regulatory authority. Fish populations were sampled with standard gill nets and seines. The standard gill net used is 150 feet long and 8 feet deep with mesh sizes varying from i to 3% square inches. Additional large mesh (3- and 3%-square-inch-mesh) gill nets were used to more adequately sample fishes of larger sizes. The number of nets set was determined by the size of the impoundment, water conditions and time of year. The size of seines used is given with each survey results table. --- Page 4 --- All fish collected in gill nets were counted and weighed. A sample of fish, usually up to 15 of each game species, was measured and examined for sexual development and stomach content. Total numbers, total weights, percentage composition, average weights and condition factors ("K") were tabulated. Fish taken in seines were counted and length ranges were recorded. Several specimens of each species were preserved in formalin and returned to the laboratory where identifi- cations were confirmed. Vegetation observations were made during each survey and records were made as to the kind and abundance. This information will be dis- cussed only when significant. Air and water temperatures, hydrological data, turbidity, weather conditions and other physical data were recorded in each survey. Water analyses, including dissolved oxygen, carbon dioxide, alkali- nity, total hardness, chlorides and pH were conducted on most waters. This type of information will be discussed in this report only when pertinent. Data for each body of water were examined to determine which waters would be considered for population control measures. The criteria for considering management efforts were population of undesirable species in excess of 80 per cent by weight and/or number, lake capaci- ties, water usage, and the "cost-benefit ratio" of a treatment. Several public waters surveyed during this segment were recommended for supplementary hatchery stocking of fingerling game fish for one or more of the following reasons: (1) the degree and survival of game fish reproduction, (2) reservoir capacities, (3) food abundance, (4) fishing pressure and (5) past production records. III. Significant Deviation: No significant deviation from planned acti- vities were encountered. All public lakes of Region I-B were sur- veyed during this segment with the exception of two minor lakes that were extremely low. No major improvements or developments of access and/or facilities were found, therefore, updating of the Statewide Public Access Bulletin was not necessary. IV. Conclusions, Evaluations and Recommendations: The existing fish harvest regulations for Region I-B were found to be satisfactory for the pre- sent resources and no changes were proposed or adopted. The public waters of Region I-B surveyed during this segment are listed in Table 1. A comparison of the average coefficients of condition ("K" factors) for all game species collected with gill nets at all waters surveyed is presented in Table 2. The 1973 supplementary hatchery stocking of game fish is found in Table 3. --- Page 5 --- Table l. Name Amistad Reservoir Ascarate Lake Balmorhea Reservoir Diablo I Lake Elm Creek Lake E. V. Spence Reservoir Macho Lake Mountain Creek Lake Nasworthy Lake North Concho Reservoir Oak Creek Reservoir Red Bluff Reservoir Robert Lee City Lakes Twin Buttes Reservoir Valley Creek Lake Winters Lake Colorado River San Saba River County Val Verde El Paso Reeves Hudspeth Runnels Coke Hudspeth Coke Tom Green Tom Green Coke Reeves Coke Tom Green Runnels Runnels Concho Menard Waters Surveyed During Segment 21 Surface Acres Size 64,900 50 573 84 55 14,950 40 95 1,596 5,440 2,375 11,700 15 9,080 250 Number of Visits --- Page 6 --- 6Z£°T £9°% 6S°S O9°% 92°E LH'E O9°E LOS GS°E 69°E€ 9S°E 72% 18°% ZO"? PLL GS'T aBevreAy 6L°S Ov’ € 8S’ ce°e’ y8°l €8°l JOATY eqes ues LO°E os’€ LU IS" J9ATY OperoOto) 07°C Te’ 61°? ELT aye] STIIUTM 07°C SG°S GS°€ ZO'E 97° 2 =S6'T axel yeerp AOTTeA £0°@ O6°T 9T°€ OLE 76°C GT'E 90°72 GL°T ATOATISSY SsozANg UTA, OTE Y8°€ LO"E 9T°s. ayelT AIT) 2e8T AJIEeqoYy ZO’ E ae) GL°E FO°E 9C°T ATOATISOY FINTA pod 9S°% 79°C ST°E ES°E OLE IS'€ 9G°% 06°C YI? 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Stocking requests for 1974 have been made but undoubtedly will require several changes because of unpredictable water levels in West Texas. Lake Amistad The results of two surveys on Amistad (May and November 1973) are combined in Table 4. The fish population appears stable in all respects, with most species near their long-term averages in netting results for the past three years. The average weight of smallmouth buffalo continues to increase, however, despite the use of the same types of nets since 1968. The International Boundary and Water Commission and Texas Water Rights Commission have cooperated with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Depart- ment each spring in stabilizing the water level during the largemouth bass spawning season (February through April). By allowing undisturbed spawning and encouraging high fry survival, this practice has apparently succeeded in maintaining a substantial crop of harvestable largemouth bass from year to year without supplementary stocking. Age class 0 and 1 fish were common in this segment's surveys. Lake Amistad has been selected as a potential candidate for striped bass stocking. The great areas of open water, largely unutilized now, could possibly contribute to an open-water predator fishery. However, before any new species are introduced into Amistad, harvest and standing crop data should be gathered intensively for at least one year as base- line data from which the effects of stocking can later be measured. Recent informal discussions with Mexican officials indicate that cooperative studies and management programs involving fisheries workers of both countries are promising possibilities. This is con- sidered as an important opportunity and should be officially encour- aged. Ascarate and Ascarate Fisherman's Lakes Results of the single survey of these lakes, made in October 1973, are combined in Table 5 because the two lakes are connected by a short con- duit through which water flows from Ascarate to the smaller lake. Both lakes produce few game fish because of heavy fishing pressure and skiing and boating on the larger lake. The populations of carp and gizzard shad are too large, although carp are often sought and utilized by local fishermen. Threadfin shad were introduced in 1971. Subsequent surveys produced no survivors and the effort was regarded as a failure. However, in October 1973, six threadfins were seined from the smaller lake Fisher- man's). Further surveys will determine if their population will grow --- Page 10 --- Table 4. Survey Results Amistad Reservoir, May 22, 23, 24, 1973 and November 6, 7, 8, 1973. Results of fifty-nine standard gill nets and twenty-one large-mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. "K" Spotted gar 3 .18 3.52 1.17 13 Longnose gar 39 2.43 84 .62 2.16 332 Gizzard shad 457 28 .48 204 .34 44 8.01 Carp 74 4.61 126.84 1.71 4.97 River carpsucker 83 5 «LZ 132 .44 1.59 3«19 Smallmouth buffalo 535 33 .33 1433 .00 2.67 56.16 Gray redhorse 9 56 11.53 1.28 45 Blue catfish * 12 75 15.81 1.21 .62 1.54 Black bullhead 1 .06 «25 .25 .O1 Channel catfish * 48 2.99 63 .50 1.32 2.49 1.65 Flathead catfish * 46 2.87 303 .22 6.59 11.89 1.97 White bass * 47 2.93 42.78 91 1.67 2.46 Warmouth * 6 .37 1.57 .26 .06 3.30 Redbreast sunfish * 5 31 49 .09 .02 3.36 Green sunfish * 2 13 -26 13 -O1 3.55 Bluegill * 101 6.29 12.20 12 48 3.62 Longear sunfish * 1 .06 .09 -09 OL 3.64 Redear sunfish * 3 18 54 .18 .02 3.67 Largemouth bass * 58 3.62 48 .07 .82 1.88 2.29 White crappie * 39 2.43 22.66 -58 .89 2.54 Black crappie * 1 .06 .80 .80 .03 2.65 Freshwater drum 35 2.19 42.98 1.22 1.69 Total 1605 100.00 2551.51 100.00 Game Fish * 369 22.99 511.99 20.07 Rough Fish 1236 77.01 2039 .52 79.93 Seining results Amistad Reservoir (Bag 26' x 6' x 4-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). Species Number Size Range In Inches . Golden shiner 1 1-24 Blacktail shiner 65 1-4 Fathead minnow 4 1-2 Bullhead minnow 6 14-2 Mosquitofish 5 3-1 Redbreast sunfish 2 3/4-34 Bluegill 7 2-4 Largemouth bass 2 3-3% ee Ne) he Total --- Page 11 --- Table 5. Survey results Ascarate Lake, October 3, 1973. Results of four standard gill nets and one large-mesh net. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. Nie Gizzard shad 31 30.39 21.00 .67 17.90 Carp 20 19.60 68 .00 3.40 57.99 River carpsucker 3 2.95 4.57 1.52 3.90 Black bullhead 12 11.76 1.98 .16 1.69 Channel catfish * 25 24.51 20 .37 81 17 .37 1.70 Bluegill * 7 6.86 49 .07 42 3.55 White crappie * 1 -98 42 -42 .36 2.62 Black crappie * 3 2.<95 43 14 231 2.89 eee Total 102 100 .00 117.26 100 .00 Game Fish * 36 35.30 21.71 18.52 Rough Fish 66 64.70 95.55 81.48 eee Seining results Ascarate Lake (Bag 26' x 6' x %,-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). —_—_—_ ee Species Number Size Range In inches __ Gizzard shad 100 2-6 Threadfin shad 6 3-4 Carp 1 10 Golden shiner 66 15-6 Red shiner 25 1-14 Bullhead minnow 6 14 Black bullhead 1 8 Green sunfish 2 3 Bluegill 70 1-4 Longear sunfish 2 2-3 Black crappie 6 6-7 Largemouth bass 14 2-8 Seca nEEnnennnreneeeeeeee Total 299 eee --- Page 12 --- Jl. partially displace gizzard shad as hoped, and provide more available forage for game fish. Because of intensive fishing pressure and poor conditions for adequate game fish reproduction, stocking of sub-adult channel catfish and largemouth bass has been done annually for several for several years. This practice should be suspended for a year or more to check recruitment. Lake Balmorhea Fifty-seven flathead catfish were stocked in Lake Balmorhea in 1970 to reduce the stunted population of small sunfish. The most recent survey, conducted in September 1973, (Table 6) shows no evidence of either flathead reproduction or a reduction of small sunfish. How- ever, the catfish have survived and are harvested from time to time, and there is no reason to believe that they will not reproduce here. Lake concessionaires report that Lake Balmorhea continues to yield a satisfactory game fish harvest and is a popular fishing lake in West Texas. It has an abundant and varied supply of small forage fish and should be considered for introduction of an open-water predator species such as white bass, striped bass, or walleye. Lake Diablo I According to an October 1973 survey (Table 7), crappie in Lake Diablo I are overpopulated and undersized as in past surveys. A management technique which has been shown effective in other applications, intro- duction of a new large predator species, was tried here in December 1973. Twenty-seven adult and sub-adult flathead catfish were collected from other regional lakes and transported to Lake Diablo I. Further surveys will be made to evaluate the success of this action and to determine other management needs. Despite the overabundant crappie and large carp, this lake regularly produces large game fish. A largemouth bass weighing more than 12 pounds was captured in May. This fish was not caught on a hook but jumped into the boat in pursuit of a lure which the fisherman had just retrieved from the water. Elm Creek Lake This old impoundment serves very little as a fishery. Sedimentation has reduced its depth and almost destroyed all game fish spawning habitat. Supplementary hatchery stocking has produced little improve- ment. Only three desirable species were collected with gill nets and accounted for 12% by number and less that 4% by weight of this year's sample (Table 8). --- Page 13 --- Table 6. -ll- Survey results Balmorhea Lake, September 11, 12, 1973. Results of six standard gill nets and four large-mesh (cis Per Cent Total Wt. Ave. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By We. UK" Carp 107 22.62 341.00 3.18 72.41 Golden shiner 11 2.32 1.84 -16 .39 River carpsucker 4 #85 20.00 5.00 4.24 Channel catfish * 37 7.82 38.99 1.05 8.28 1.4 Flathead catfish * 2 42 31.60 15.80 6.71 2.06 Bluegill *« 222 46.94 16.85 .07 3.58 3.03 Redear sunfish * 2 42 41 .20 .09 3.40 Largemouth bass * 14 2.96 12.78 -91 2.71 2345 White crappie * 51 10.78 5.24 -10 1.12 2.17 Black crappie * 23 4.87 2.21 -09 47 2.48 eee _ Total 473 100 .00 470 .92 100 .00 Game Fish * 351 74.21 108 .08 22.96 Rough Fish 122 25.79 362 .84 77.04 Seining results Balmorhea Lake, (Bag 26' x 6' x ¥-inch- mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). eee Species Number Size Range in Inches _ Mexican tetra Carp Golden shiner Fathead minnow Variegated cyprinodon Mosquitofish Warmouth Green sunfish Orangespotted sunfish Bluegill Largemouth bass White crappie Black crappie Tidewater silversides bo Now wn me FPOWWNWULP ON H Nw 1224 ioe NS a. i] J ho t vie Ne ne LS) aa © ell eel) SS eel ©) SO eel coe ©) geld NO NO OU) t PN Dru a { Total 1693 neem --- Page 14 --- 7 Table 7, Survey results Diablo I Lake, October 4, 1973. Results of two standard gill nets, and 1 large-mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. Wii Carp 12 10.25 46.00 3.83 77 14 Channel catfish * 3 2 DL 5.08 1.69 8.52 1.51 Bluegill * 10 8.54 75 .07 1.25 3.79 White crappie * 92 78.64 7.80 -08 13.09 2wld Total 117 100.00 59.63 100 .00 Game Fish * 105 89.75 13.63 22 .86 Rough Fish 12 10.25 46 .00 77.14 Seining results Diablo I Lake, (Bag 26' x 6' x 4-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). Species Number Size Range in Inches Golden shiner 57 yn Mosquitofish 12 1-1% Green sunfish 1 1 Orangespotted sunfish 1 1 Bluegill 175 1-4 Largemouth bass 15 23-5 White crappie 156 1-24 Logperch 2 3-34 Total 419 nn A --- Page 15 --- -13- Table 8. Survey results Elm Creek Lake, June 6, 1973. Results of three standard gill nets, and one large-mesh net. Per Cent Total Wt. Ave. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. mi Longnose gar 1 .63 6.49 6.49 4.39 Gizzard shad 84 53.16 20.53 .24 13.88 Carp 9 5.70 38.00 oe ele 25.71 River carpsucker 12 7.59 13.00 1.08 8.80 Smallmouth buffalo 19 12.02 52 .00 2.73 35.17 Black bullhead 7 4.44 2.24 «32 1.52 Channel catfish * 4 2«53 4.00 1.00 2.70 1.56 Warmouth * 1 .63 .09 -09 -07 3.82 White crappie * 14 8.86 1.47 -10 99 2.73 Freshwater drum 7 4.44 10.00 1.42 6.77 eee Total 158 100 .00 147 .82 100 .00 Game Fish * 19 12.02 5.56 3.76 Rough Fish 139 87.98 142 .26 92.24 in enneeeeee Seining results Elm Creek Lake, (Bag 26' x 6' x k-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). eee Species Number Size Range in Inches eee Gizzard shad 6 3-6 Red shiner 120 4-14 Bullhead minnow 4 1-2 River carpsucker 5 4 Mosquitofish 50 4 Green sunfish 1 2 Orangespotted sunfish 3 1-2 Bluegill 2 2 Largemouth bass 21 45-2 Total 212 --- Page 16 --- ~1h~ E. V. Spence Reservoir Since its completion in 1969, this 15,000-acre reservoir has im- pounded only about one-third of its capacity. The water level fluctu- ates as the Colorado River Municipal Water District makes withdrawals for municipal use by the cities of Odessa, Midland, Big Spring, Snyder and San Angelo. Standard survey results for the July collection at E. V. Spence (Table 9) reflect the beginning of a stabilization of the fish popu- lation. The species composition by per cent number and weight is very similar to last segment's collection. However, largemouth bass were not collected by either nets or seines and this might be considered as a significant factor if it reoccurs next segment. The experimentally introduced striped bass have become a significant part of this West Texas fishery. Creel surveys, conducted under Job 16 of this project, show that 10% of the fishermen are seeking this large open water predator. A striper evaluation collection (Project F-27-R, Job 6) conducted during cooler months captured 142 striped bass which accounted for 33.09% weight of all fish caught (Table 10). Two stripers weighing more than 14 pounds were taken by fishermen in January 1974. Gizzard shad, threadfin shad, and tidewater silversides are abundant and provide ample forage for all predator species. The annual stocking of striped bass fingerlings should be continued since this reservoir is supplying brood fish for the statewide striper program. Lake Macho The harvest of channel catfish in Lake Macho is believed to be main- tained by annual supplementary stocking. The 1973 stocking of hatchery- reared catfish was evident in the October 1973 survey (Table 11). On the other hand largemouth bass are missing from this survey. This may be due in part to the scarcity of hatchery-reared bass for the past two years; however, past surveys of Macho have characteristically col- lected only a few large bass. Further surveys will be necessary to determine if their population is declining and whether supplementary bass stocking is necessary. As before, the carp in Macho appear to be few but large. Carp smaller than 5 pounds are rarely netted here. Bluegill are numerous and stunted as in most other small West Texas lakes. Despite these factors, the game fish harvest from this small but popular lake is reported by the concessionaire to be satisfactory. --- Page 17 --- 15+ Table 9. Survey results E. V. Spence Reservoir, July 4, 5, 1973. Results of eleven standrad gill nets, and six large-mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average eee Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. NR Longnose gar 27 5.03 74.00 2.74 15.75 Gizzard shad 178 33.21 25.00 .14 5.32 Carp 48 8.96 40.00 .83 8.52 River carpsucker 61 LL.38 76.00 1.24 16.18 Blue catfish * 1 .18 52 «D2 eel 1.66 Black bullhead 22 4.11 14.92 .67 3.17 Channel catfish * 21 3.92 38.15 1.81 8,12 1.92 Flathead catfish * 10 1.86 82.15 8.21 17.49 1.96 White bass * 25 4.67 25.12 1.00 5.35 2.99 Striped bass * 4 74 26.87 6.71 Dale 222 Warmouth * 3 -56 .89 .29 .19 3.64 Bluegill * 58 10.82 4.79 -08 1.02 3.39 White crappie * 13 2.43 4.32 33 292 2.52 Freshwater drum 65 12.13 57.00 87 12.14 SSeS Total 536 100 .00 469 .73 100 .00 Game Fish * 135 25.18 182.81 38.92 Rough Fish 401 74.82 286.92 61.08 Seining results E. V. Spence Reservoir (Bag 26' x 6! x %-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). eee Species Number Size Range in Inches Gizzard shad Threadfin shad Red shiner Bullhead minnow White bass Tidewater silversides Mor UW rR Total 18 eee --- Page 18 --- =L6= Table 10. Striped bass evaluation netting results, October, November and December, 1973. Nine net units (450' x 3/4"-, 14"-, and 2"-, square-mesh. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. Longnose gar 13 -49 17 .84 1.37 2.35 Gizzard shad 2110 80.07 180.24 .08 23.79 Threadfin shad 1 .04 .03 .03 -00 Carp 23 88 27.12 1.17 3.58 Rivercarpsucker 74 2.80 94.31 1.27 12.45 Blue catfish * 6 «23 4.97 -82 -65 Black bullhead 2 .08 41 .20 .06 Channel catfish * 58 2.20 57.78 99 7.62 White bass * 184 6.98 114.54 .62 15.12 Striped bass * 142 5.38 250.74 1.76 33.09 Bluegill * 6 «23 38 .06 .05 Largemouth bass * 2 -08 1.38 .69 19 White crappie * 12 -46 7.18 .59 94 Freshwater drum 2 -08 .76 .38 LL Total 2635 100 .00 757.68 100 .00 Game Fish * 410 15.56 436.97 57 .66 Rough Fish 2225 84 .44 320.71 42.34 --- Page 19 --- =| 7s Table 11. Survey results Macho Lake, October 4, 1973. Results of two standard gill nets, and one large-mesh net. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. a Carp 4 3.01 22 .39 5.59 60.36 Channel catfish * 14 10.52 5.94 42 16.02 1.44 Bluegill * 111 83.46 8.41 .07 22.67 3.02 Redear sunfish * 4 3.01 35 08 95 3.23 Total 133 100 .00 37 .09 100.00 Game Fish * 129 96.99 14.70 39.64 Rough Fish 4 3.01 22 .39 60 .36 Seining results Macho Lake (Bag 26' x 6' x k-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). Species Number Size Range in Inches Red shiner 15 4 Mosquitofish 1 45 Green sunfish 19 13/4-33, Bluegill 49 1-44 Redear sunfish 26 34 Largemouth bass 23 2-5 Total 133 --- Page 20 --- -18- Mountain Creek Lake This small municipal water supply reservoir at Robert Lee was chemically renovated in 1970 and restocked with desirable game fish. Drought conditions and low fertility apparently have hampered the expansion of the fish population. Only 14 fish were collected with 5 gill nets (Table 12). No management activities are planned until additional water is impounded and present conditions changed. Nasworthy Lake Lake Nasworthy continues to be one of the most heavily used fishing and recreation sites in this area. The primary fish species sought include channel catfish, largemouth bass, and white crappie. Table 13 shows a variety of game fish present, but their numbers have decreased from past surveys. Due to heavy siltation, very little suitable game fish spawning area is available. Therefore supple- mentary bass and catfish stockings have been recommended annually (Table 3). However, suspension of largemouth bass stockings is recommended to determine the natural reproductive success. White bass x striped bass hybrids are also recommended to add an open-water predator as well as a sport fish. North Concho Reservoir This U.S. Corps of Engineers reservoir has failed to receive any significant run-off in the past two years and is less than one-tenth its capacity (this reservoir was dry in 1970). The game fish stocked since 1971 have shown good survival and growth. The hatchery-stocked flathead catfish have increased from fingerling size to over 5 pounds average weight. Walleye are also a major part of the fish population, accounting for 10.41% by number and 28.67% by weight of the combined netting results (Table 14). Although walleye are present in significant numbers they are rarely taken by fishermen. However, some local fishermen have learned to catch them indicating that an educational campaign might help increase the walleye harvest. Oak Creek Lake This deep, clear 2,300-acre reservoir is the municipal water supply for the city of Sweetwater. It also provides public recreation and generator coolant water for West Texas Utilities Company. This segment's survey results (Table 15) show game species well represented, as nine desirable species accounted for about one-third of the netting sample by weight and number. Largemouth bass continues to be the most popular species and many trophy bass are taken regularly. --- Page 21 --- == Table 12, Survey results Mountain Creek Lake, April 5, 1973. Results of four standard gill nets, and one large-mesh net. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. A River carpsucker 1 7.14 2.47 2.47 27 .97 Black bullhead 8 57.14 1.07 13 12.12 Channel catfish * 3 21.43 3.52 1.17 39.86 1.70 Largemouth bass * 2 14.29 1.77 .88 20.05 2.74 a Total 14 100.00 8.83 100 .00 Game Fish * 5 35.72 5.29 59.91 Rough Fish 9 64.28 3.54° 40.09 Eee --- Page 22 --- Table 13. Survey results Nasworthy Lake, August 23, 24, 1973. Results of twelve standard gill nets, and four large-mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. . Per Cent Average Species Number by No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. "KM Longnose gar 4 3 11.72 2.93 3.45 Gizzard shad 494 66.13 96 .00 19 28.31 Carp 55 7.36 96.00 1.74 28.31 River carpsucker 10 1.34 34.00 3.40 10 .02 Blue catfish * 1 14 19 wL9 -06 1.44 Channel catfish * 42 5.61 63 .68 1.51 18.78 1.2/8 Flathead catfish * 1 14 2.86 2.86 .84 1.93 White bass * 2 «lt 2.64 1.32 .78 2.87 Bluegill * 49 6.56 4.57 09 1.35 3.5 Redear sunfish * Ll 1.47 88 08 26 Zah2 Largemouth bass * 3 40 2.05 .68 .60 2.42 White crappie * 52 6.97 13 .84 26 4.08 2.55 Freshwater drum 23 3.08 10.69 46 3.16 Total 747 100 .00 339 .12 100 .00 Game Fish * 161 21.56 90.71 26.75 Rough Fish 586 78,44 248.41 73.25 -~20- Seining results Nasworthy Lake, (Bag 26' x 6' x }-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). Species Gizzard shad Threadfin shad Golden shiner Red shiner Bullhead minnow Mosquitofish Bluegill Redear sunfish Largemouth bass Total Number PPE RPNNFNE 12 Size Range in Inches nt oe ! lo Nh av Sonne Fresh net or i { t i H j _ a --- Page 23 --- == Table 14. Survey Results North Concho Lake, March 9, 1973 and June 7, 1973. Results of eleven standard gill nets and two large-mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Rr a ee pe Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. UKE Gizzard shad 142 36.04 36.59 .25 11.97 Carp 66 16.75 17.12 «25 5.60 River carpsucker 56 14.21 63.55 1.13 20.79 Smallmouth buffalo 2 51 1.65 -82 54 Black bullhead 31 7.87 6.33 -20 2.07 Channel catfish * 23 5.83 39.13 1.70 12.80 2.21 Flathead catfish * 8 2.04 41.74 5a 21 13.66 2.67 White bass * 3 .76 4.66 1.55 1.53 3433) Green sunfish * 1 29 »15 oh 04 3.99 Orangespotted sunfish* 1 25 .08 -08 -03 5.07 Bluegill * 13 3430 1.01 -07 «33 4.24 Largemouth bass * 3 ./6 2.48 .82 81 2.82 White crappie * 2 Ol 223 ell .08 2.86 Walleye * 41 10.41 87 .62 2213 28.67 1.79 Freshwater drum 2 Ol 3.30 1.65 1.08 OO eee eee ee Total 394 100.00 305.64 100.00 Game Fish * 95 24.11 177.10 57.95 Rough Fish 299 75.89 128.54 42.05 eee Seining results North Concho Lake, (Bag 26' x 6' x 4%,-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). eee Species Number Size Range in Inches a , Gizzard shad 301 45-6 Threadfin shad 3 4-1 Carp 51 5-7 Red shiner 42 1-2 Mosquitofish Ll 1 Green sunfish 4 1-3 Orangespotted sunfish 1 3 Bluegill 24 -5 Longear sunfish Redear sunfish Largemouth bass TT Total 445 Rr Ww PN perve t ne (oe) 1 wo --- Page 24 --- =2 2= Table 15. Survey results Oak Creek Lake, April 18, 19, 1973 and April 27, 1973. Results of 18 standard gill nets and 6 large-mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number by No. Pounds Pounds __by Wt. mK Gizzard shad 253 36.24 51.45 -20 9.18 Carp 48 6.88 100.00 2.08 17.85 River carpsucker — 179 25.64 206 .00 1.15 36.77 Black bullhead 2 .29 .82 41 14 Channel catfish * 11 1.58 17.67 1.60 3.16 1.62 Flathead catfish * 5 71 62.17 12.43 11.09 2.14 White bass * 40 5.43 68.65 1.71 12.26 2.90 Redbreast sunfish * 1 LS .52 52 .09 4.56 Green sunfish * 1 15 .09 -09 .02 3<51 Bluegill * 84 +202 7.16 .08 1.27 3.10 Longear sunfish * 2 .29 15 .07 .03 3.53 Redear sunfish * 8 1.15 Od -07 ell 3.15 Largemouth bass * 12 1.72 30.33 2.52 5.42 2.64 White crappie * 52 7.45 14.62 28 2.61 2.56 Total 698 100 .00 560.25 100 .00 Game Fish * 216 30.95 201 .98 36.06 Rough Fish 482 69 .05 358.27 63.94 Seining results Oak Creek Lake (Bag 26' x 6' x }-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). Species Number Size Range in Inches Red shiner Blacktail shiner Total a --- Page 25 --- -23- The clear water of this reservoir has permitted heavy growth of submerged vegetation which interferes with boating and fishing. A total chemical treatment is not feasible because it is a municipal water supply. However, spot chemical treatments and mechanical controls are being considered. Channel catfish fingerlings are stocked annually, and recoveries of marked specimens (under Job 14 of this project) confirm good survival. Red Bluff Lake In most years, centrarchid reproduction at Red Bluff is low or non- existent because of the high salinity of the water. However, a large inflow of fresh water in the spring of 1973 allowed a success- ful largemouth bass spawn, and young-of-the-year bass were seined in the upper end in October. Table 16 summarizes survey results from June and October, 1973. Interviews with at least 20 fishermen indicate that the harvest rate of largemouth bass and other game fish is low. The abundance of threadfin shad and tidewater silversides in Red Bluff, the general lack of largemouth bass, and the large reservoir size increase the justifications for stocking striped bass or striped x white bass hybrids. ; Robert Lee City Lakes Located near Robert Lee, these small impoundments once provided muni- cipal water for the City. Siltation has greatly reduced their capacities, and they presently serve only as fishing sites. Both were chemically renovated in 1970 and restocked with game species. The larger of the two was checked during this segment (Table 17), and no undesirable species were found. The smaller lake was not netted due to low water; however, it reportedly supports a sizeable largemouth bass population. Management activities will depend on water impoundment and fisherman utilization. Twin Buttes Reservoir The Bureau of Reclamation constructed this impoundment on the Middle and South Concho Rivers approximately 11 years ago. The first signi- ficant run-off was received in 1970 as it reached about one-half of the conservation level. Heavy stocking of channel, blue and flathead catfish, largemouth bass and walleye followed shortly. Catfish and walleye stockings have continued annually (Table 3). This year's survey on Twin Buttes reflects a poor game fish population, particularly walleye, considering the past stockings. Rough fish, mainly gizzard shad, carp and carpsucker, accounted for 82.52% number and 93.38% weight of the netting sample. These figures were considerably higher than in previous years. Channel catfish, white crappie, and largemouth --- Page 26 --- -24- Table 16. Survey results Red Bluff Reservoir, June 19, 1973 and October 2, 1973. Results of twelve standard gill nets, and four large-mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. MK Longnose gar 63 11.20 155.71 2.47 19.67 Gizzard shad 146 25.98 28.71 19 3.63 Carp 94 16.73 49.97 .53 6.32 River carpsucker 20 3.56 24 .00 1.20 3.03 Smallmouth buffalo 162 28.82 458 .00 2.82 57.88 Channel catfish * 13 2 32 14.38 1.10 1.82 1.56 White bass * 30 5.34 45.92 1.53 5.80 3.04 Green sunfish * 13 2.32 2.27 -17 .29 3.75 Bluegill * 12 2.12 3.28 .27 41 4.44 Largemouth bass * 9 1.61 9.04 1.00 1.15 3.02 Total 562 100 .00 791.28 100 .00 Game Fish * 77 13.71 74 .89 9.47 Rough Fish 485 86.29 716.39 90.53 Seining results Red Bluff Reservoir, (Bag 26' x 6' x }- inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). Species Number Size Range in Inches Gizzard shad 188 1-8 Threadfin shad 10 13, - 24, Carp 256 1-2 Golden shiner 1 2 3/4 Red shiner 205 1-3 Fathead minnow 1 1% Bullhead minnow 3 14-2 River carpsucker 1 3 Smallmouth buffalo 4 14-5% Zebra minnow 2 14,-1% Mosquitofish 5 14-1 3/4 Green sunfish 1 1 7/8 Bluegill i 1 Largemouth bass 2 3 Tidewater silversides 2869 1-43 Total 3549 --- Page 27 --- -25- Table 17. Survey results Robert Lee Old City Lake, January 31, 1974. Results of two standard gill nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. RN Channel catfish * 2 11.76 8.92 4.46 43.53 2.16 Warmouth * 8 47 .06 1.36 .17 6.64 3 67 Bluegill * 1 5.88 .09 .09 44 3.84 Largemouth bass * 6 35 .30 10.12 1.68 49 .39 3.16 Total 17 100.00 20.49 100.00 Game Fish * 17 100.00 20.49 100 00 Rough Fish --- Page 28 --- -26- bass comprise the primary sport fishery at the present time. Walleye have been liberally stocked for the past three years but were not collected during this segment. However, they are occasionally reported by fishermen. ’ Feasible management practices for this situation appear to be limited at this time. , Valley Creek Lake Valley Creek Lake provides water for the city of Ballinger. Silta- tion is becoming a problem in this old reservoir as in many small West Texas impoundments. However the past two annual surveys have indicated an increase in the game fish population. Table 19 shows catfish, white crappie, and largemouth bass well represented in the netting sample for this lake. No management activites are planned at this time. Winters Lake The turbidity continues to be very high in this shallow city water supply lake and limits desirable fish production mainly to catfish and white crappie. Table 20 gives the 1973 survey results which are similar to past collections. Gizzard shad, carp, and river carpsucker account for the majority of rough fish. A complete chemical renovation of the fish population of this lake and its small watershed may be feasible in the future as a new city water supply is being planned. Colorado River The Colorado River was sampled once with gill nets during this segment in Concho County. There was little sustained flow and no major run-off had occurred in several months. Table 21 is fairly representative of the fish population found in most sections of the upper Colorado. Cat~- fish provide the majority of the sport fishing. Although no seining samples were made, red shiner and blacktail shiners are usually abun- dant. No management practices are feasible but sampling should be done when possible for future reference. San Saba River The San Saba River was surveyed twice this segment in Menard and Schleicher Counties. The combined results are given in Table 22. Channel and flathead catfish and white crappie are the primary game fish present and provide the most fishing in this area. Although none were netted, spotted bass are known to be present and sought after bs many anglers in this clear stream. The stocking of marked hatchery fingerling channel catfish job 14 of this project) is yielding data indicating high levels of survival in this area of the river. --- Page 29 --- -27- Table 18. Survey results Twin Buttes Reservoir, June 8, 1973. Results of eight standard gill nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Ave. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number by No. Pounds Pounds by Wt. ie Longnose gar 25 4.64 55.00 2.20 8.88 Gizzard shad 197 36.62 31.00 15 5.01 Carp 86 15.98 146.00 1.69 23.60 River carpsucker 84 15.62 320.00 3.80 51.72 Gray redhorse sucker 1 .18 1.76 1.76 +29 Channel catfish * 15 2 PQ 25.48 1.69 4.12 LifS White bass * 5 93 3.07 -61 -49 2.06 Redbreast sunfish * 1 .18 .22 e22 .04 3.15 Green sunfish * 3 .56 30 . 10 .05 2.94 Bluegill * 45 8.37 6.61 .14 1.06 3.70 Longear sunfish * 9 1.67 75 .08 +13 3.16 Largemouth bass * 6 1.12 2 kd 35 134 1.90 White crappie * 10 1.86 2.40 24 39 2.27 Freshwater drum 51 9.48 24 .00 47 3.88 eee eee ee eee Total 538 100 .00 618.71 100 .00 Game Fish * 94 17.48 40.95 6.62 Rough Fish 444 82.52 577 .76 93 .38 Seining results Twin Buttes Reservoir (Bag 26' x 6' x k-inch- mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). ee Species Number Size Range in Inches rr Gizzard shad 90 7-8 Golden shiner 51 4-4 Red shiner 78 14-3 Blacktail shiner 25 1-3 Bullhead minnow 1 1 Mosquitofish 53 45-2 Warmouth 1 6 Green sunfish 4 1-3 Bluegill 55 45-14 Longear sunfish 5 1-4 Redear sunfish 2 4-5 Largemouth bass 7 45-8 White crappie 2 1-8 --- Page 30 --- =28- Table 19. Survey results Valley Creek Lake, June 6, 1973. Results of five standard gill nets, and two large-mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. mK Longnose gar 9 3.73 36.00 4.00 9.59 Gizzard shad 77 31.95 8.92 ell 2.38 Carp 19 7.88 85 .00 4.47 22.67 River carpsucker 59 24.48 76.00 1.28 20.26 Channel catfish * 6 2.49 13.05 2.17 3.48 1.95 Flathead catfish * 7 2.91 91.71 13.10 24.45 2.26 Bluegill * 34 14.11 3.28 .09 -88 3.02 Longear sunfish * 3 1.24 .19 -06 .05 3.55 Largemouth bass * 4 1.66 12.70 3.17 3.38 2.55 White crappie * 17 7.06 7.20 42 1.92 2.44 Freshwater drum 6 2.49 41.00 6.83 10.94 i Total 241 100 .00 375.05 100 .00 Game Fish * 71 29.47 128.13 34.16 Rough Fish 170 70.53 246.92 65 .84 i Seining results Valley Creek Lake ( Bag 26' x 6' x %-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine) . eR Species Number a Gizzard shad 20 Carp 1 Red shiner 10 Blacktail shiner 8 River carpsucker 1 Bluegill 2 White crappie 1 ee Total 43 i --- Page 31 --- -~29- Table 20. Survey results Winters Lake, June 21, 1973. Results of four standard gill nets, and two large-mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average eee Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. KN Gizzard shad 59 26.57 11.00 .18 5.29 Carp 11 4.96 40 .00 3 263 19.24 River carpsucker 39 17.57 58 .00 1.48 27.90 Smallmouth buffalo 4 1.80 23 «00 5.75 11.07 Black bullhead 4 1.80 1.92 -48 -92 Channel catfish * 24 10.81 19 .06 .79 9.17 1.73 Flathead catfish * 5 2) 25 43.55 8.71 20.95 2.19 Bluegill * 3 1.35 .28 .09 ~L3 4.31 White crappie * 63 28 .38 8.53 -13 4.11 2.44 Freshwater drum 10 4.51 2.53 .25 1.22 eee ee Total 222 100.00 207.87 100 .00 Game Fish * 95 42.79 71.42 34 .36 Rough Fish 127 57 321 136.45 65.64 Seining results Winters Lake (Bag 26' x 6' x %-inch-mesh seine, and 20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). eee Species Number Size Range in Inches SSeS Gizzard shad 70 1-8 Carp 18 3-5 Golden shiner 12 2-24 Red shiner 140 1-3 Channel catfish 1 10 Mosquitofish 60 1 Bluegill 1 4 Longear sunfish 1 2 Redear sunfish 1 4 Largemouth bass uy 1 White crappie 55 45-8 Logperch 3 2~3 eee Total 363 --- Page 32 --- -30- 1.51 Lol? yoy 2 oat 3.07 Table 21, Survey results Colorado River, Concho County, February 135, Results of two standard gill nets, and one large-mesh net. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Avera: Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. Longnose gar 28 28.57 80.50 2.87 41.57 Gizzard shad 29 29.59 34.00 1.17 17.56 Carp 2 2.04 12.00 6.00 6.19 River carpsucker 25 25.51 37 .00 1.48 19.11 Smallmouth buffalo 2 2.04 13.00 6.50 6.71 Channel catfish * 3 3.05 4.10 1.36 2.12 Flathead catfish * 1 1.03 6.00 6 .00 3.10 Bluegill * 6 6.11 .56 -09 -29 White crappie * 1 1.03 -48 -48 225 Freshwater drum 1 1.03 6.00 6 .00 3.10 Total 98 100 .00 193 .64 100 .00 Game Fish * 11 11.22 11.14 5.76 Rough Fish 87 88.78 182 .50 94.24 --- Page 33 --- -31- Table 22. Survey results San Saba River, June 27, 1973 and October 30, 31, 1973. Results of eleven standard gill nets, and four large- mesh nets. Per Cent Total Wt. Avg. Wt. Per Cent Average Species Number By No. Pounds Pounds By Wt. mK" Longnose gar L5 3 «61 29.52 1.96 3.22 Gizzard shad 146 35.09 70.68 -48 7.72 Carp 6 1.44 45.00 7.50 4.92 River carpsucker 111 26.68 267 .00 2.40 29.16 Smallmouth buffalo 30 8.42 327.29 9 35 35.75 Gray redhorse sucker 2 -48 4.12 2.06 45 Golden redhorse sucker 1 «24 1.92 1.92 221 Channel catfish * 14 3.36 30.94 2.21 3.38 1.83 Flathead catfish * 6 1.44 40.96 6.82 4.47 1.84 Warmouth * 5 1.21 1.48 .29 -17 3235 Bluegill * 14 3.36 1.25 .08 «13 3 58 Redear sunfish * 2 -48 “OT 28 .06 3.40 White crappie * 44 10.58 14,11 32 1.55 2.79 Freshwater drum 15 3.61 80.65 5.37 8.81 Total 416 100 .00 915.49 100.00 Game Fish * 85 20.43 89.31 9.76 Rough Fish 331 79.57 826.18 90.24 Se Seining results San Saba River (20' x 6' x 1/8-inch-mesh seine). ere pn nn ee Species Number Size Range in Inches Gizzard shad 50 1-6 Red shiner 10 235 Sharpnose shiner 75 45-2 Spottail shiner 2500 45-3 Gray redhorse 1 3 Channel catfish 1 2 Mosquitofish 30 1-14 Redbreast sunfish 25 2-3 Green sunfish 1 3 Bluegill 5 2-3 Spotted bass 50 2-6 Largemouth bass 12 2-3 White crappie 2 2 Total 2762 a nr --- Page 34 --- =39- It is recommended that this supplementary stocking be continued in the upper portions of the San Saba to provide a better fishery. General Conclusions, Discussion and Recommendations Low water conditions and heavy siltation are adversely affecting game fish production in many of the smaller Region I-B lakes. Supplementary stocking has shown improvements in some cases. Sound fisheries management practices for larger reservoirs are limited in most instances. However, the stocking of large predator species is pro- viding additional fisheries benefits at E.V. Spence and North Concho Lakes. The stocking of striped bass or white-striped bass hybrids should be attempted in the more troublesome West Texas reservoirs. However it is recommended that part-time creel clerks be employed at each of the lakes to be stocked before management introductions are made. V. Prepared by: Billy J. Follis Project Leader Date: March 26, 1974 Leo Lewis __ Regional Director, Inland Fisheries Region IT , ; t. - Approved: CLA Jom, ¢ ey Z ~Dingell-Johnson Coordinator --- Page 35 --- 233. Achecklist of scientific names is presented so that common names may be used in this report. These names are specified in "A List of Common and Scientific Names of Fishes from the United States and Canada", Second fdition, American Fisheries Society, Special Publication Number 2, 1960. Common Names Spotted gar Longnose gar Gizzard shad Threadfin shad Mexican tetra Carp Golden shiner Red shiner Sharpnose shiner Blacktail shiner Fathead minnow Bullhead minnow River carpsucker Smallmouth buffalo Gray redhorse Golden redhorse Blue catfish Black bullhead Channel catfish Fathead catfish Vareigated cyprinodon Zebra minnow Mosquitofish White bass Striped bass Warmouth Redbreast sunfish Green sunfish Orangespotted sunfish Bluegill Longear sunfish Redear sunfish Spotted bass Largemouth bass White crappie Black crappie Walleye Logperch Freshwater drum Tidewater silversides Scientific Names Lepisosteus oculatus Lepisosteus osseus Dorosoma cepedianum Dorosoma petenense Astyanax mexicanus Cyprinus carpio Notemigonus crysoleucas Notropis lutrensis Notropis oxyrhynchus Notropis venustus Pimephales promelas Pimephales vigilax Carpiodes carpio Ictiobus bubalus Moxostoma congestum Moxostoma erythrurum Ictalurus furcatus Ictalurus melas Ictalurus punctatus Pylodictis olivaris Cyprinodon variegatus Fundulus zebrinus Gambusia affinis Roccus chrysops Roccus saxatilis Chaenobryttus gulosus Lepomis auritus Lepomis cyanellus Lepomis humilis Lepomis macrochirus Lepomis megalotis Lepomis microlophus Micropterus punctulatus Micropterus salmoides Pomoxis annularis Pomoxis nigromaculatus Stizostedion vitreum Percina caprodes Aplodinotus grunniens Menidia beryllina