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Austin Reservoir 2020 Survey Report media download(PDF 1014.8 KB)

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Austin Reservoir - 2020 Survey Report

Prepared by Marcos J. De Jesus and Muhktar Farooqi
Inland Fisheries Division
San Marcos/Austin District

This is the authors' summary from a 35-page report. For a copy of the complete report, use the download link in the sidebar.

Fish populations in Austin Reservoir were surveyed in 2020 by using electrofishing. This report summarizes the results of the survey and contains a fisheries management plan for the reservoir based on those findings. Historical data are presented with the 2017-2020 data for comparison. This report summarizes the results of the surveys and contains a management plan for the reservoir based on those findings.

Reservoir Description

Austin Reservoir is a stable-level 1,589-acre riverine-type impoundment of the Colorado River located in the heart of the City of Austin (COA). It was constructed in 1893 for hydro-electric power, municipal water supply, water conservation and recreation. The reservoir is used to pass water downstream from Travis Reservoir. The reservoir is operated by COA and the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA). The reservoir lies within the Edwards Plateau and has a catchment area of approximately 38,240 square miles. Land surrounding the reservoir is highly developed with commercial and residential property bordering most of the shoreline. Natural habitat features consisted of boulders and emergent aquatic plants.

Management History

Important sport fish include Largemouth Bass. The 2016 management plan included stocking Florida Largemouth Bass to maintain high genetic influence and managing invasive levels of hydrilla. Largemouth Bass have been managed under statewide regulations. Other species of interest are Common Carp and Smallmouth Buffalo; the reservoir has been promoted as a prime destination for bank anglers pursuing these species. The triploid Grass Carp permit was lifted in 2016 to allow harvest and help restore aquatic vegetation in the reservoir.

Fish Community

Management Strategies

Sport Fish Restoration Logo

Performance Report as required by Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act Texas Federal Aid Project F-221-M-2 Inland Fisheries Division Monitoring and Management Program



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