Lake Hawkins is located four miles northwest of Hawkins, in Wood County. The lake is 633 surface acres, with an average maximum depth of 30 feet. Native floating plants (American lotus, spatterdock, waterlily, watershield), native submergent plants (chara, cabomba) and Eurasian watermilfoil. Hydrilla is also present in the reservoir and became a problem in 2006, but has decreased drastically in abundance since 2007. Native floating aquatic plants are abundant in Lake Hawkins. Hydrilla can be found in small amounts throughout the reservoir. The lake has areas of flooded timber which provide additional cover.
Largemouth bass is a popular sportfish in this clear, highly vegetated lake. The quality of the crappie fishery is sporadic. Blue and channel catfish have been stocked, but they are generally uncommon. Largemouth bass fishing is generally good for numbers, and better quality fish are caught in the upper end of the lake. The abundant aquatic vegetation and high water clarity may require downsizing of line and lures. Bass anglers often catch chain pickerel while in pursuit of largemouth bass. Chain pickerel can be targeted specifically using small spinners and baits that mimic small minnows or baitfish. These fish are seldom large but they fight hard and are very fun to catch on light tackle. Crappie are sought in the lake’s standing timber and under the 2869 bridge. Live minnows and crappie jigs are among the most popular baits used. A Triploid Grass Carp Permit is in effect on this lake. If a grass carp is caught, it must be immediately returned to the water unharmed. All other species are managed with statewide regulations.
Public Ramps & Marinas
Park at Dam
- Located off CR 3440, north of US 80 on the west side of the lake
- One-lane concrete ramp with parking for 100 vehicles
- $2/person park user fee
- Open all year
- Operated by Wood County (903) 769-4545
Fish Hawk Pointe
- Located on CR 3440 north of US 80 on the west side of the lake
- One-lane concrete ramp with parking for 50 vehicles
- No fee required
- Open all year
- Operated by Wood County (903) 769-2134
North Ramp
- Located on the upper end of the reservoir off FM 2869 from US 80 or FM 14
- One-lane concrete ramp with parking for 5 vehicles
- No fee required
- Open all year
- Operated by Wood County (903) 857-2311
CR 3497 Ramp
- Located on the east side of the reservoir at the end of CR 3497. Take CR 3480 off FM 14, turn right on CR 3420 and left on CR 3495 to CR 3497. Alternatively follow CR 3420 along the southeast shore to CR 3495.
- One-lane concrete ramp with parking for 15 vehicles
- No fee required
- Open all year
- Operated by Wood County (903) 857-2311