Aquilla Lake
Quick Links: Fishing Regulations | Angling Opportunities | Cover & Structure | Tips & Tactics
Lake Characteristics
Location: 35 miles north of Waco off Highway
310, just west of I-35 near Hillsboro
Surface area: 3,020 acres
Maximum depth: 59.5 feet
Impounded: 1982
Water Conditions
Current Lake Level
Conservation Pool Elevation: 537.5 ft. msl
Fluctuation: 3-4 feet
Normal Clarity: Stained
Reservoir Controlling Authority
US Army Corps of Engineers
285 CR 3602
Clifton, Texas 76634
(254) 694-3189
Aquatic Vegetation
Limited amounts of pondweed and water willow
Predominant Fish Species
Lake Records
Stocking History
Latest Survey Report
Lake Maps
Contact local tackle shops
Fishing Regulations
All fishes are managed under statewide regulations.
Angling Opportunities
| Species | Poor | Fair | Good | Excellent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass |  |
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| Catfish |  |
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| Crappie |  |
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| White Bass |  |
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| Sunfish |  |
Fishing Cover/Structure
Both the Hackberry and Aquilla Creek arms are loaded with standing timber and brush, but they are shallow in most areas and provide little fish habitat. The main pool close to the dam is mostly devoid of timber. A word of caution: when navigating up the creek arms of the lake, watch for large tree stumps just under the water!
Tips & Tactics
Largemouth bass fishing can be good on Aquilla. The combination of stained water, localized cover, and light fishing pressure means there are some big bass to catch but you have to work for them. Fish spinner baits, jig and pork combos, and plastic worms in and around cover. Tree lines, fencerows, and creek channels are good places to start. Crappie are usually found on submerged brushpiles and large isolated trees. Live minnows seem to be the preferred bait. Channel and blue catfish are caught drift fishing flats or on trotlines set around shallow, brushy areas. Shad, cutbait, or bloodbait will all work. White bass are caught trolling small tailspinners, jigs, and spoons across windy flats.