Some catfish caught during sampling efforts in E.V. Spence Reservoir were
kept so they could be aged. Blue cats averaged eight years old, while channel
cats averaged four. (Texas Parks & Wildlife photo)
Sampling Shows Healthy Catfish Population in E.V. Spence Reservoir
Source: Texas Parks & Wildlife
Great news for Lone Star catfish anglers who fish in the San Angelo area. In mid-March, the Texas Parks & Wildlife Inland Fisheries staff in the San Angelo District sampled the blue catfish and channel catfish populations in E.V. Spence Reservoir. Catch rates for both species were high in this 14,640-acre impoundment on the Colorado River in Coke County. The number of blue catfish caught was the highest historical catch the district office has seen on any of the reservoirs it manages.
Altogether, 338 blue catfish ranging from 13-33 inches were sampled, with most fish between 16-20 inches in total length. The majority of the blue cats observed were in good condition. Blue catfish fingerlings were stocked from 2016-2019. While sampling this spring, the district retained 18 blue catfish ranging from 17-19 inches for age analysis. Almost all were eight years old, indicating that previous stockings were successful. There was no evidence of natural reproduction in the populations yet, although biologists are hopeful that will eventually occur.
Channel catfish numbers were also high relative to past surveys. Fifty-seven individuals ranging from 7-22 inches long were collected, all of which were in good condition. Fifteen 13- to 15-inch fish were retained, which were just under four years old on average, on par with other area reservoirs.
If you’ve never been, E.V. Spence is only 45 minutes north of San Angelo near the town of Robert Lee. Whether from the bank or in a boat, now’s the time to enjoy some quality catfishing in this blue-ribbon catfish hotspot.
