Downloads:

Medina Reservoir 2020 Survey Report media download(PDF 461.7 KB)

If you have difficulty accessing the information in this document, contact the TPWD Inland Fisheries Division for assistance.

 

Medina Reservoir - 2020 Survey Report

Prepared by Mitchell Nisbet
Inland Fisheries Division
San Antonio District

This is the author's summary from a 29-page report. For a copy of the complete report, use the download link in the sidebar.

Fish populations in Medina Reservoir were surveyed in 2019 and 2021 using gill netting and in 2020 using electrofishing. Historical data are presented with the 2019-2021 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

Medina Reservoir is a 5,410-acre impoundment located on the Medina River in the San Antonio River Basin in Medina and Bandera counties, Texas. The reservoir experienced a considerable water level increase in 2015, filling to conservation pool elevation from 80 feet low. Subsequently, the reservoir water level dropped, then refilled again in late fall 2018. Since that time, the reservoir water level has dropped to approximately 36 feet low. Most of the shoreline is characterized as rock bluff or rocks and gravel. Flooded terrestrial vegetation is currently the predominant fisheries habitat type. In February 2021, zebra mussels were discovered in the reservoir, and since have established a population.

Management History

Important sport fish include Largemouth Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass, and White Bass. All species have been managed under statewide regulations. Florida Largemouth Bass fingerlings have been stocked most recently in 2016 when fisheries habitat was optimal for survival. Palmetto Bass have been stocked on an irregular basis due to variable availability and water level fluctuations and were most recently stocked in 2017 and 2018. Sunshine Bass were stocked in 2020. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) sent out a news release in March 2021 alerting constituents that zebra mussels were discovered in the reservoir and again in June 2021 that the lake was classified as infested.

Fish Community

Management Strategies

Sport Fish Restoration Logo

Performance Report as required by Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act Texas Federal Aid Project F-221-M-2 Inland Fisheries Division Monitoring and Management Program



Related Links: