TPWD begins year-long fish recovery & habitat survey following July Fourth floods

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department kicked off a year-long fish recovery and habitat survey in October on the Guadalupe, Llano, Nueces, Perdenales, and San Saba rivers four months after the July floods ripped through the Texas Hill Country.  Crews have been electrofishing and documenting species, sizes and habitat conditions.

Early results show that many smaller tributaries are “relatively intact,” with declines of under 30%, a sign that TPWD calls encouraging for wildlife and local economies reliant on recreational fishing. TPWD says that native species showing strength include Guadalupe bass, bluegill, gizzard shad and smaller largemouth bass.

The agency had some surplus channel catfish that they stocked in Ingram Lake last week and will soon be stocking Flatrock and Nimitz Lake in Kerrville.

Teams are also tracking invasive plant species, notably Arundo, which displaces native species, raises fire risk, and harms water quality.  TPWD says the plant can spread rapidly after floods and has been observed increasing along the Guadalupe.

TPWD is treating infestations and remains ready to restock fish when needed.  Landowners and river users should report sightings to healthycreeks@tpwd.texas.gov or call 512-289-2740.