Marble Falls Reservoir - 2009 Survey Report

Prepared by Greg A. Cummings and Stephan J. Magnelia
Inland Fisheries Division
District 2-C, San Marcos, Texas

This is the authors' summary from a 22-page report. For a copy of the complete report, use the download link in the sidebar.

Fish populations in Marble Falls Reservoir were surveyed in 2009 using electrofishing and in 2010 using gill nets. This report summarizes the results of the surveys and contains a fisheries management plan for the reservoir based on those findings.

Reservoir Description

Marble Falls Reservoir is a 573-acre main-stem stable level impoundment of the Colorado River, located in the City of Marble Falls, Burnet County, TX. It was constructed in 1951 by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) for purposes of hydroelectric power, recreation and water supply. The reservoir is riverine in nature with a limited number of coves and creeks. The reservoir area represents a geological transition between granite outcroppings and limestone formations of the Edwards Plateau, and its shoreline length is approximately 19 miles. The majority of the shoreline is private; however, one public boat ramp is available.

Management History

Important sport fish include largemouth bass and catfish species. The Florida subspecies of largemouth bass was stocked in Marble Falls Reservoir in 1999 to increase Florida bass genetic influence.

Fish Community

• Prey species: Gizzard shad, threadfin shad, bluegill, and redbreast sunfish were the dominant prey species available.
• Catfishes: Channel catfish were the dominant species present. Flathead catfish were present in low density. Blue catfish were present in low density.
• Black basses: Largemouth bass were abundant. Electrofishing CPUE has decreased since last survey. Guadalupe bass were also present at low densities.
• Temperate basses: Striped bass were present in low density. This is the first year they have been sampled. They most likely emigrated from an upstream reservoir.

Management Strategies

The reservoir should continue to be managed with existing fishing regulations. General monitoring with gill nets and electrofishing should be conducted in 2013 – 2014. An aquatic vegetation survey should be conducted in summer 2010.

Performance Report as required by Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act Texas Federal Aid Project F-30-R-35 Statewide Freshwater Fisheries Monitoring and Management Program