Wimberley angler urges Comal County to seek access to Canyon Lake as hydrilla spreads

At the Feb. 13 Comal County Commissioners Court meeting, Wimberley resident Terry Oldham told the court he is concerned about access to Canyon Lake as hydrilla spreads and as boat ramps remain closed.

Oldham said he has fished Canyon Lake since childhood and relayed conversations with Corps engineers, saying they "emailed the commissioners" and "we're going to try to work with them to maybe get access to the lake, for the fishermen," according to his account. He told the court he and companions recently launched at Ramp Number 6 in the back of Tom's Creek despite signs closing ramps, and reported successful fishing following the launch.

Oldham characterized hydrilla as beneficial to the fishery: "the hydrilla in Canyon Lake has improved the fishing," he said, and described increases in typical tournament weights compared with past years. He contrasted the lake27s hydrilla with previous local efforts to remove aquatic vegetation, which he said diminished fishing in other lakes.

He asked the court to work with the Corps to restore or provide temporary access for anglers while lake levels are low. Court members acknowledged the comment; staff later noted they would continue to coordinate with the Corps.

Why it matters: Canyon Lake is a recreational and economic resource for Comal County residents and visitors. Changes to access and management of aquatic vegetation affect recreational users, adjacent businesses and property owners. Oldham recommended a cautious approach to vegetation control to preserve fishery productivity.

No formal action was taken during the meeting on Canyon Lake access or vegetation management.