Fishing & Boating

Fishing & Boating

Fishing. The favorite fishing spot for many guests is our private lake which is located behind the cabins in the Main Campground area. This lake, officially named Murray Lake (aka Whoop & Holler Lake) is about five acres. It is fun fishing for both kids and adults. The lake contains bass, catfish and perch. Trot lines are not allowed. It is a catch-and-release lake. Swimming is not allowed in the lake.

Above: Enjoying the quiet at sundown.

Once again, Grant Walker has caught a big one. Above left: Grant displays a bass he caught during the April 2006 Runnels Reunion. At right, Grant shows a bass he caught at the August 2007 Runnels Reunion. His mother, Tammy Walker, looks on. On both occasions, Grant was fishing in the Whoop & Holler Lake located behind the Main Campground.

Above: There is a "catch & release" policy for our lake and ponds. Also, no swimming and no tubing in the lake.

Another fishing spot is the large pond below the lake's dam. Shown is a photo of this scenic pond in autumn. Like the lake, this pond is also catch-and-release. No swimming allowed! A fishing license is not required for fishing on our lake or pond. However, a valid Texas fishing license is required for fishing in the Pecan Bayou.

The road to the large pond is rocky, so access is either by hiking or truck. (No ATVs allowed.)

Livestock may be grazing in the area, so it is important to close any gate you open. Please do not attempt to pet the animals.

You can also fish from the Pecan Bayou which borders our ranch for over half a mile. (A valid Texas fishing license is required.) This portion of the river contains large catfish and other species. It is quite scenic. One area, historically named "The Crossing," includes a beautiful rocky bottom crossing which produces small rapids. The river is lined with large pecan trees and is very shady. A great place to visit! Like the pond mentioned above, the road to the bayou is rocky, so access is either by hiking or truck. (No ATVs allowed.) Shown at right are young guests wading in the "Crossing" on the Bayou in June. The river is NOT a safe place for either swimming or tubing. Depending on the season, kayakers might also enjoy the Pecan Bayou.

Boating. You are welcome to launch your kayaks or canoes in the lake. A small fishing boat with only a trolling motor is also allowed. Large rocks are submerged throughout the lake, so exercise caution at all times--and remember, no swimming or playing in the lake! Personal water crafts such as Sea-Doos or other motorized crafts are not allowed for safety reasons.

	Remember to always follow standard safety procedures and exercise caution in and around the water. We are not responsible for accidents.
Paddle boats are sometimes available for rent. When available, the boats rent for $25 each for the weekend. All adult boaters are required to sign a liability release and assumption of responsibility statement. Parents/guardians are required to sign for children. Life jackets (PFDs) are required when boating.

Water flows quickly through the Pecan Bayou "Crossing" at our ranch near Mullin, Texas.

Catfish can often be seen from the bank above the "Crossing" on the Pecan Bayou.

The Pecan Bayou at the Whoop & Holler Ranch in Mills County, Texas.

The banks of the Pecan Bayou are lined with pecan trees.

Looking for fish and other interesting stuff!

Besides bass and catfish, there are plenty of perch to keep the younger folks interested. Shown are Zak & Haley fishing in the lake in March.