Baylor Creek Reservoir
Quick Links: Fishing Regulations | Angling Opportunities | Cover & Structure | Tips & Tactics
Due to low water levels, public boat ramps on this lake are closed. Use the phone numbers provided below for updates on ramp conditions.
Lake Characteristics
Location: 12 miles west of Childress on
the Prairie Dog Fork of the Red River
Surface area: 610 acres
Maximum depth: 50 ft., mean depth
15 ft.
Impounded: 1950
Water Conditions
Current
Water Level: Available at marina, (940) 937-2102
Fluctuation: Moderate, 2-4
ft. annually
Normal Clarity: Clear with 2-4 ft.
visibility in lower reservoir; 1-2 ft in upper
Reservoir Controlling Authority
City of Childress
Rt 1, Box 283
Childress, Texas 79201
(940) 937-3684
Aquatic Vegetation
Limited; some areas of pondweed and flooded trees
Predominant Fish Species
Lake Records
Current
Fishing Report
Stocking History
Latest Survey Report
Lake Maps
A general information map is available from the City of Childress (address above) or the lake marina (940) 937-2102.
Fishing Regulations
All species are currently managed under statewide regulations.
Angling Opportunities
Both Baylor and Childress have been affected by drought and repeated golden alga blooms. Fishing at these lakes is poor and launching is very difficult. We are watching for a significant water rise and will restock when conditions improve.
| Species | Poor | Fair | Good | Excellent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass |  |
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| Catfish |  |
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| Flathead Catfish | |
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| Crappie |  |
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| Sunfish |  |
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| Black Bullhead | |
Fishing Cover/Structure
Most structure in Baylor Lake is created by flooded timber. There are some areas of pondweed as well. The dam and points on the lake offer boulders and rip-rap, while the upper lake has many cut banks and drop-offs. Childress Lake has much more vegetation including pondweed, coontail, cattails, and milfoil. The upper lake has flooded timber, but rock structure is limited.
Tips & Tactics
The best fishing period for largemouth bass is spring when water temperatures reach 55-65 degrees. Carolina rigs, crankbaits, spinners, and pig-n-jig baits are all good options on either of these lakes. Focus on structure, especially where 2 or 3 habitat types meet. For crappie, try fishing minnows near structure along the dam or in the upper reservoir for the best catches.