Red Drum Life History and Sport Fishing Trends in a Freshwater Reservoir

Growth, survival, angler utilization, and fishery characteristics of red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) were monitored after introduction into Braunig Reservoir, a freshwater urban power-plant cooling reservoir in South Texas. Growth was rapid with individuals reaching 412, 592, 683, and 728 mm TL by 12, 24, 36, and 48 months, respectively. Red drum reached harvestable size (51 cm TL) within 2 years after stocking. Average annual survival was 35.7%, higher than reported for Texas coastal populations. Red drum harvest rate was also generally higher in Braunig Reservoir than in Texas coastal fisheries. Cost:benefit ratios of the Braunig Reservoir red drum fishery were 1:65, 1:147 and 1:382 for 1982, 1983 and 1984, respectively.