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Coleman Reservoir 2020 Survey Report media download(PDF 664.7 KB)

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Coleman Reservoir - 2020 Survey Report

Prepared by Natalie Goldstrohm and Michael Homer Jr.
Inland Fisheries Division
Abilene District

This is the authors' summary from a 39-page report. For a copy of the complete report, use the download link in the sidebar.

Fish populations in Coleman Reservoir were surveyed in 2020 by using electrofishing and trap netting and in 2019 and 2021 by using gill netting. Historical data are presented with the 2019-2021 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

Coleman Reservoir is an 1,811-acre impoundment constructed in 1966 on Jim Ned Creek in the Colorado River Basin. The reservoir is used for municipal water supply, flood control, and recreation. The reservoir is controlled by the City of Coleman and has a history of water level fluctuation. Coleman was full in 2007 but dropped to a record low water level in April 2015. Water level rose to conservation pool (CP) after substantial rains in April and May 2016. Water level has fluctuated within five feet of full since 2016. Fish habitat primarily consisted of flooded terrestrial vegetation, standing timber, star grass, button bush, cattail, lotus, and water-willow. As of spring 2016 all boat ramps were useable. Bank-fishing access was limited to the boat ramp areas and near Press Morris Park.

Management History

Important sport fish include Largemouth Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass (i.e., Palmetto Bass and Sunshine Bass) and White Crappie. Sport fishes are currently regulated by statewide harvest regulations. Threadfin Shad were introduced in 1984 and 1985. Channel Catfish were first introduced in 1966. In order to maintain a Hybrid Striped Bass fishery, fish have regularly been stocked beginning in 1976. Florida Largemouth Bass were introduced in 1991 and were last stocked in 2019. Largemouth Bass continue to be monitored for size structure, body condition, and Florida Largemouth Bass genetic influence. In an effort to stop the spread of invasive species, aquatic invasive species signage has been posted. Also, outreach efforts provided continued engagement with partners and the general public about the negative impact of aquatic invasive species though the use of print media, social media, and public engagements.

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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