Lake Whitney
Size: 23,560 acres
Age: Impounded in 1951

Location: Lies on the Brazos and Nolan Rivers on State Highway 22 about 30 miles north of Waco.

Description: This long river like reservoir winds 40 miles through classic Blackland Prairie habitat and limestone bluffs. Much of the native timber is still standing and additional fish shelter has been provided by gravel shoals and rocky points. The water is generally fairly clear with a maximum depth of 108 feet.

Controlling Authority: U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, Box 427, Whitney, TX 76692, (817) 694-3189.

TPWD Fisheries Office: 4110 New Corsicana Hwy., Waco, TX 76705, (817) 799-5190.

Fishing Regulations: Channel and blue catfish -- 15 per day, all at least 14 inches long. All others same as state-wide.

Stocking History:

Largemouth bass -- 1966, 68, 69, 71
Florida bass -- 1985, 86
Channel catfish -- 1970
Smallmouth bass -- 1983, 84, 85, 86
Blue catfish -- 1966
Striped bass -- 1973-76, 84-90, 91

Comments: This is one of the only lakes in Texas with a naturally reproducing population of striped bass, however, restocking is still necessary due to low production in years when inflow from the Brazos is low. It has become one of the top trophy smallmouth bass lakes in the state. The tailrace supports excellent fishing at times for shoreline anglers.

Lake Records:

Species Pounds Inches Angler
White crappie 2.13 15.50 Christine Smith
White bass 2.50 16.75 Kay Teer, Gary Teer
Striped bass 39.69 43.25 Mark Turkali
Smallmouth bass 7.72 22.00 Ronald Gardner
Largemouth bass 9.06 27.00 Gene Questa
Hybrid striper 13.50 32.25 Jason Lambert
Flathead catfish 30.50 39.00 James L. McNatt
Channel catfish 23.75 36.00 Burl Carr
Blue catfish 47.00 47.00 Rickie D. Kelley

Fishing Quality:

Largemouth bass --
Catfish --
Crappie --
Striped bass --
Smallmouth bass --
White bass --

Facilities: State and federal public recreation abounds. Corps parks with full facilities dot the shoreline. Lake Whitney State Recreation Area (817/694- 3793) offers 955 acres complete with RV hook-ups, launch ramps, and hiking trails. A modest fee is charged in most areas.

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