Halbert Reservoir - 2022 Survey Report

Prepared by David R. Smith and Jake Norman
Inland Fisheries Division - Tyler South District

This is the authors' summary from a 24-page report. For a copy of the complete report, use the download link in the sidebar.

Fish populations in Lake Halbert were surveyed in 2022 using electrofishing and trap netting, and in 2023 using gill netting. Historical data are presented with the 2022/2023 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

Lake Halbert is a 531-acre reservoir on Elm Creek, a tributary of the Trinity River, constructed by the City of Corsicana in 1921 to provide water for municipal and industrial purposes. Boat access is adequate, and a fishing pier is available. In addition, shoreline access is available in the park along the west bank. A prolonged drought in 2005-2006 reduced reservoir capacity to approximately 28% volume and the reservoir was closed to recreation; water level has stabilized over the past decade.

Management History

Important sport fish include White Crappie and catfishes. City of Corsicana personnel have maintained Zebra Mussel inspections at the boat ramp. Local news media outlets have been contacted regarding the Blue Catfish and White Crappie fisheries potential. The City of Corsicana proposed control of aquatic vegetation but was advised that it was unnecessary.

Fish Community

• Prey species: Threadfin Shad were abundant in the reservoir. Electrofishing catch of Gizzard Shad was moderate, and the majority of encountered Gizzard Shad were available as prey to most sport fish
• Catfishes: Channel Catfish are abundant; however, few fish encountered were over 12 inches. Blue Catfish are present but at much lower relative abundance levels.
• Largemouth Bass: While historically the Largemouth Bass population has persisted at relatively low levels, the most recent survey indicated an improved abundance among the species.
• Crappie: White Crappie were very abundant and provide excellent angling opportunities.

Management Strategies

Conduct a trap net survey in 2026, a gill net survey in 2027, a structural habitat survey in 2026, and a vegetation survey in 2026.

Performance Report as required by Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act Texas Federal Aid Project F-221-M-5 Inland Fisheries Division Monitoring and Management Program