Timpson Reservoir - 2024 Survey Report

Prepared by Brian K Metz and Dan Ashe
Inland Fisheries Division
Jasper District, Brookeland, Texas

This is the authors' summary from a 27-page report. For a copy of the complete report, use the download link in the sidebar.

Fish populations in Lake Timpson were surveyed in 2024 using fall electrofishing and trap netting, and in 2025 using spring electrofishing. Historical data are presented with the 2024-2025 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 Timpson is located in Shelby County. The Shelby County Freshwater Supply District is the controlling authority. Primary uses are water supply and recreation. This reservoir has a surface area of 223 acres, a shoreline length of 8 miles, and an average depth of 8 feet. Water level fluctuates an average 1-3 feet annually. Boat and bank access are adequate, with one boat ramp present with a courtesy dock.

Management History

Important sport fish included Largemouth Bass and crappie. Prior to 1994, Largemouth Bass were managed under statewide regulations. In 1994, Largemouth Bass regulations were changed to a 14- to 21-inch slot length limit. This regulation has had the desired effect of producing increased numbers of Largemouth Bass that are within the protective slot length limit. In 2003, hydrilla was found in Lake Timpson, and coverage expanded to 40% of the reservoir surface area limiting angler access. Triploid Grass Carp were stocked in 2004 at a rate of 5 fish per vegetated acre (448 fish) to control hydrilla. Since 2006, no hydrilla has been observed until trace amounts were discovered in 2022 and have continued to be monitored. In 2010 giant salvinia was discovered and eradication efforts were initiated with numerous herbicide treatments and the introduction of giant salvinia weevils; no plants were observed in 2011 or 2012. However, giant salvinia reappeared in 2013 and coverage peaked at 13 acres in 2017. Since then, routine herbicide treatments have maintained abundance at < 1 acre.

Fish Community

• Prey species: Threadfin were abundant in the reservoir. Gizzard Shad were first observed in 2016 and again in 2020, however none were observed in the most recent 2024 survey. Abundance of Redbreast Sunfish, Bluegill and Redear Sunfish all noticeably decreased from the previous two surveys
  
• Catfishes: Blue Catfish and Channel catfish have been present in low densities, based on historic surveys; however no viable fishery exists.
  
• Largemouth Bass: Previous surveys have shown good relative and stable abundance for Largemouth Bass. Largemouth Bass within the 14- to -21-inch slot length limit have remained stable over the last 3 surveys, providing a quality aspect to the fishery. Largemouth Bass showed adequate growth and were in good condition.
  
• Crappies: White Crappie were present in low numbers. Black Crappie were abundant and stable across the past three trap netting surveys, presenting angling opportunities.

Management Strategies

• Continue to manage Largemouth Bass with a 14- to 21-inch slot limit, along with stocking requests for Lone Star Bass fingerlings.
• Discuss with the city of Timpson and Shelby County Fresh Water Supply District to repair the Public Boat ramp parking lot.
• Continue to monitor trends of hydrilla and giant salvinia coverage.

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