Jacksboro Reservoir - 2022 Survey Report

Prepared by Wes Dutter and Robert Mauk
Inland Fisheries Division - Wichita Falls District

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 Jacksboro Reservoir 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

Jacksboro Reservoir is a 116-acre impoundment constructed in 1951. It is located in Jack County approximately 60 miles southeast of Wichita Falls and is controlled by the City of Jacksboro. The primary use is for municipal water supply and recreation. Maximum depth is 30 feet. Habitat consists of rocks and emergent vegetation. Boat access consists of a single, one-lane public boat ramp and an undeveloped gravel launching area. Shoreline fishing access is available along most of the lower half of the reservoir and includes a city park and two fishing docks. Jacksboro Reservoir’s spillway flows directly into 385-acre Lost Creek Reservoir. Despite their proximity, characteristics between the two reservoirs differ considerably.

Management History

Historically important sport fish include Channel Catfish, White Bass, Largemouth Bass, and White Crappie. Stocking of advanced fingerling size Channel Catfish occurred in 2021 and fingerling size northern Largemouth Bass in 2022. Jacksboro reservoir has always been managed under state-wide regulations. Brush was placed around the two fishing docks and two brush piles were constructed in the reservoir in 2023. The location for these brush piles can be found online at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) website.

Fish Community

• Prey species: Threadfin Shad were present in the reservoir. Electrofishing catch rate of Gizzard Shad was near the historical average, and few Gizzard Shad were available as prey to most sport fish. Electrofishing catch rate of Bluegill was high. Bluegill reached 7-inches in length. Redear Sunfish were sampled up to 9-inches in length.
• Catfishes: Channel Catfish relative abundance increased from previous surveys. Flathead Catfish are present in low abundance with fish sampled up to 35-inches in length.
• White Bass: White Bass relative abundance declined slightly from the previous survey. Most of the fish sampled would be preferred by anglers.
• Largemouth Bass: Largemouth Bass were abundant. More legal-length fish were available to anglers than previous surveys. Largemouth Bass had average body condition.
• White Crappie: White Crappie relative abundance increased from the last survey but remains below the historical average. Legal fish are available to the anglers.

Management Strategies

Conduct general monitoring with electrofishing and trap nets in 2026 and gill nets in 2027. Stock nine-inch Channel Catfish in 2024 and 2026 at a reduced rate. Promote the White Bass fishery via verbal communication and the internet. Continue to educate anglers and constituents on invasive species.

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