Lake Holbrook is located three miles northwest of Mineola, in Wood County. The lake is 653 acres, with an average maximum depth of 30 feet. Cattails and other emergent aquatic species are prevalent along the edge of the reservoir, providing limited shallow-water habitat. Recent native aquatic vegetation introductions by TPWD have successfully established pickerelweed and waterwillow. Submerged vegetation is scarce. Flooded timber, boat houses and brush piles provide limited cover. Aquatic vegetation has tended to be sparse, but TPWD staff have been working to introduce a variety of native aquatic species since 2006. TPWD has also worked with local organizations to create new fish habitat structures in this lake. A map which shows the location and provides GPS coordinates of these structures is available from the district fisheries office at (903) 593-5077.
Largemouth bass is the most popular sportfish in the reservoir. Recent stockings of Florida largemouth bass in 2007 and 2008 have been conducted in order to influence the genetics of the population. Bluegill and redear sunfish provide a limited fishery with some individuals up to 10 inches. Both black and white crappie are prevalent in the open water of the reservoir. Channel catfish are present, and have been increasing in abundance in recent years.
Largemouth bass anglers are most successful on this reservoir during the spring, fall, and winter months. Topwater baits are popular in the early morning and evening hours. Schooling largemouth and yellow bass can be caught in the summertime. Crankbaits and spinnerbaits are also productive fished along main-lake points and flooded timber. Popular soft plastic baits include worms, tubes, grubs, and soft-jerkbaits. Crappie are sought in the standing timber in the upper end of Lake Holbrook and in the vicinity of boat houses, brush piles and bamboo “crappie condos” that have been placed in the lower end of the reservoir. Live minnows and crappie jigs are among the most popular baits used. Channel catfish can be caught in the vicinity of decaying brush piles and standing timber. Prepared catfish baits work well, along with minnows and worms.
Public Ramps
South Access
- Located on the south shore of the reservoir. From US 80 west of Mineola, turn right on CR 2231 then right on CR 2260. Follow the road 1 mile to ramp.
- One-lane concrete ramp with parking for 20 vehicles
- No fee required
- Open all year
- Operated by Wood County (903) 569-6351
West Access
- Located on west side of reservoir. From US 80 west of Mineola, turn right on FM 1799 to CR 2298. Turn right and follow road to ramp.
- One-lane concrete ramp with parking for 10-15 vehicles
- No fee required
- Open all year
- Operated by Wood County (903) 569-6351