Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Nestled in the lush landscape of Deep East Texas, Sam Rayburn Reservoir, often referred to simply as Lake Sam Rayburn, is a significant body of water located 70 miles north of Beaumont. This reservoir, primarily fed by the Angelina River, holds the distinction of being the largest lake entirely within Texas.

Geographical Overview

Stretching over Angelina, Nacogdoches, San Augustine, Jasper, and Sabine counties, the reservoir boasts a maximum length of 36.43 miles and a width of 4.29 miles. It covers an impressive surface area of 114,500 acres and reaches depths of up to 80 feet. The catchment area of the lake spans 3,449 square miles.

Historical Background

Construction of the Sam Rayburn Reservoir commenced on September 7, 1956, and it began its service on March 29, 1965. Originally named McGee Bend Dam and Reservoir, it was renamed in 1963 in honor of the late Speaker of the House, Sam Rayburn. The reservoir was built with multiple purposes in mind, including flood control, hydroelectric power generation, and water conservation, at an estimated cost of $66 million.

Key Features and Operations

Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth district, Sam Rayburn Reservoir is a critical resource in the region. It’s the ninth largest reservoir in the United States by capacity, holding 3,997,600 acre-feet of water.

Recreational Activities

Lake Sam Rayburn is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and anglers. It hosts more than 300 fishing tournaments annually, attracting both amateur and professional fishermen. The reservoir is renowned for its largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Notable tournaments held here include the Bassmaster Elite Series and Opens, Major League Fishing, and the McDonald’s Big Bass Splash. In 2018, it was ranked as the number one bass lake in the nation by Bassmaster magazine.

Environmental and Ecological Aspects

The reservoir plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. It supports a variety of fish species and serves as a habitat for diverse wildlife. Efforts are continually made to maintain the ecological balance and ensure the conservation of this natural resource.

Access and Transportation

The lake is accessible via Texas State Highway 147, which crosses it, providing easy access to both locals and visitors. The reservoir’s scenic beauty, coupled with its vast size, makes it a popular destination for boating, camping, and nature exploration.