Record Blue Catfish Catch Rates Reported at E.V. Spence Reservoir

SAN ANGELO, TX — Texas Parks and Wildlife Department biologists sampled the highest historical catch rate of blue catfish ever recorded in any reservoir they manage during surveys last week at E.V. Spence Reservoir. 

Staff collected 338 blue catfish ranging from 13 to 33 inches long, with most measuring 16 to 20 inches. The majority of the fish were in good condition. Biologists retained 18 blue catfish between 17 and 19 inches for age analysis; nearly all were 8 years old, confirming that fingerlings stocked from 2016 to 2019 survived and grew successfully. No evidence of natural reproduction has been observed in the population so far, though officials said they remain hopeful. 

Channel catfish numbers were also high relative to previous surveys. Biologists collected 57 individuals ranging from 7 to 22 inches long, all in good condition. Fifteen fish retained for aging averaged just under 4 years old, consistent with populations in other area reservoirs. 

E.V. Spence Reservoir lies about 45 minutes north of San Angelo near the town of Robert Lee. The department encouraged anglers to take advantage of the strong catfish fishing, whether from the bank or a boat.