lakes & marinas, outdoors

Kurth Reservoir

Kurth Reservoir is located six miles north of Lufkin, off US 59. The reservoir is 726 acres, with an average maximum depth of 40 feet. Lake access permits are required and must be purchased at this office during normal business hours.

The largemouth bass population is abundant at Kurth Reservoir, with a relatively high number of fish over 4 pounds. Crappie and catfish are present, but numbers are relatively low and few anglers target these species. Bluegill and redear sunfish are present in high numbers and provide fast action, especially for youth or inexperienced anglers. Habitat in Kurth Reservoir consists of submerged aquatic vegetation (mainly hydrilla), standing timber, and lily pads. Game fish are typically found around vegetation edges, points, and creek channels. Sunfish, especially bluegill and redear sunfish, can be caught year-round but fishing peaks in late spring or summer when fish are on their spawning beds. Small jigs, spinners, and crickets all catch sunfish.

Kurth Reservoir has a relatively high amount of hydrilla, and anglers are successful at catching largemouth bass year round. During cooler months, fish are active for longer periods of the day; crankbaits and spinnerbaits worked over the vegetation will catch bass. During the hot summer, fish activity is usually concentrated during early morning and late evening. Topwater baits are good choices during low light conditions. As the sun rises, bass concentrate in or around vegetation edges. During this time, plastic baits and jigs fished vertically in thick hydrilla are productive.

Public Boat Ramp

  • Located 0.9 miles north of Redland off US 59. Turn east from 59, go 1.25 miles. Just past railroad track, go north 1 mile to lake.
  • One-lane boat ramp
  • Annual permit required
  • Operated by City of Lufkin (936) 633-0215
  • Reservoir Caretaker (936) 639-4840