Lake Austin
Lake Characteristics
Location: On the Colorado River in the City of Austin
Surface area: 1,599 acres
Maximum depth: 75 feet
Impounded: 1939
Aquatic Vegetation
Watermilfoil, hydrilla and pondweed
Predominant Fish Species
- Largemouth bass
- Catfish
- Sunfish
Lake Austin is a constant level section of the Colorado River that winds its way 22 miles from the base of Lake Travis, through Westlake to just west of downtown Austin. In 1940 the Tom Miller Dam was constructed creating Lake Austin, now used for flood control, electrical power generation, and recreation. Some of the area’s finest waterfront homes reside around this beautiful stretch of lake. Residents enjoy Lake Austin’s tranquil waters that are perfect for enjoying a variety of water sports. Most waterfront homes on Lake Austin have a private boathouse in their backyard making it easy to enjoy the short boat ride to several popular restaurants adorning Lake Austin’s shores.
Almost all the shoreline around Lake Austin is privately owned some of which are beautiful Lake Austin houses and some are incredible Austin luxury homes with lake, hill country or down town view. Of course this limits bank fishing. Bank access can be found at the Capital of Texas Highway (Loop 360) bridge, at Emma Long Park, Mary Quinlan Park, and Fritz Hughes Park near Mansfield Dam. Two excellent concrete public boat ramps are available: the Walsh Boat Landing, located off Lake Austin Blvd., and a ramp below the Loop 360 bridge. Additional ramps are located at Emma Long Park and Mary Quinlan Park. Camping is available in Emma Long Park, operated by the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department, (512) 499-6700.
