TPWD District Fisheries Office

PO Box 835
Canyon, Texas 79015
(806) 655-4341
Caleb Huber, Biologist

About the Area

Local Information

  • Lake Concession (806) 779-2092

Nearby State Parks

 

McClellan Reservoir

Quick Links: Fishing Regulations | Angling Opportunities | Cover & Structure | Tips & Tactics


Lake level is very low at this time and boat ramps are not usable.

Lake Characteristics

Location: 50 miles east of Amarillo on McClellan Creek, a tributary of the North Fork of the Red River
Surface area: 339.2 acres
Maximum depth: 21 ft., mean depth 4 ft.
Impounded: 1938; renovated and dredged 1995

Water Conditions

Spillway Elevation: 2921 ft. msl
Fluctuation: Moderate to severe, 4-10 feet annually
Normal Clarity: Turbid, 1-2 ft visibility

This area is prone to drought and low water conditions. The reservoir has gone dry several times since 2000. It's a good idea to call the controlling authority, Black Kettle Ranger District, and check water conditions before making a trip.

Reservoir Controlling Authority

US Forest Service
Black Kettle Ranger District
RT 1, Box 55-B
Cheyenne, OK 73628-9725
(580) 497-2143

Aquatic Vegetation

Large areas of pondweed in the upper reservoir, scattered stands of cattail and bulrush

Predominant Fish Species

Lake Records
Stocking History
Latest Survey Report

Fishing Regulations

All species are currently managed under statewide regulations, which include an 18-inch minimum length limit and 3-fish daily bag limit for saugeye.

Angling Opportunities

McClellan Reservoir has been severely affected by drought and has gone dry three times since 2000. The reservoir has refilled to approximately 1/2 capacity and has been restocked to begin rebuilding the population.

Species Poor Fair Good Excellent
Largemouth Bass yes      
Channel Catfish yes      

Blue Catfish

yes      
Crappie yes      
Sunfish yes      
Fishing Cover/Structure

This reservoir has limited cover and structure. The bottom is primarily sandy clay with some areas of gravel. The upper reservoir has some larger areas of aquatic vegetation.

Tips & Tactics

Fish the bottom of the reservoir with cut bait or live minnows much like you would fish for catfish.