O.C. Fisher Reservoir 2016 Survey Report (PDF 735.3 KB)
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O.C. Fisher Reservoir - 2016 Survey Report
Prepared by Lynn Wright
Inland Fisheries Division
San Angelo District
This is the authors' summary from a 25-page report. For a copy of the complete report, use the download link in the sidebar.
Fish populations in O.C. Fisher Reservoir were surveyed in 2016 using electrofishing and trap netting and in 2017 using gill netting. Historical data are presented with the 2016-2017 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
O. C. Fisher Reservoir is a 5,440-acre reservoir at conservation pool elevation and is located on the west side of San Angelo, Texas. Access to the reservoir is controlled by San Angelo State Park which surrounds most of the lake basin. The reservoir has a history of severe water level fluctuations. It went completely dry in 2013 and then caught significant water in 2015.
Management History
Important sport fishes have included Largemouth Bass, White Crappie, and catfishes. Sport fishes have been managed with statewide regulations.
Fish Community
- Prey species: Electrofishing catch of Gizzard Shad was very high with most available to predators based on their size. Electrofishing catch of Bluegills was high and provided an additional source of prey for predators.
- Catfishes: Channel Catfish abundance was low. No Blue and Flathead Catfish were observed during sampling.
- White Bass: White Bass were present in the reservoir, but population density was low.
- Largemouth Bass: Largemouth Bass abundance was higher in 2016 compared to in the past. All but a few fish were <12 inches total length. Bass up to 16 inches were observed.
- White Crappie: Abundance of White Crappie was markedly lower in 2016 compared to in the past. However, catch of a few 4-6 fish suggest some reproduction and survival.
Management Strategies
Continue to manage fish harvest with statewide regulations. Conduct electrofishing, trap netting, and hoop netting surveys in 2018-2019 and 2020-2021. Access and vegetation surveys will be conducted in 2020.
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