Grapevine Lake Fishing, Size, Depth, And More

Grapevine Lake’s tranquil ambiance invites you to delve into its sparkling waters. This extensive lake spans over 7,000 acres and harbors an array of aquatic creatures such as bass, crappie, and catfish. Whether you’re seeking thrills or a peaceful retreat with loved ones, Grapevine Lake has all you need for an enjoyable time on the water. Join us as we uncover the awe-inspiring beauty and abundant resources of one of Texas’ hidden gems – Grapevine Lake.

Size And Depth

Grapevine Lake is a reservoir located in the north-central region of the state of Texas, United States. The lake has a surface area of 7,380 acres, a conservation storage capacity of 187,700 acre-feet, and a flood control storage capacity of 247,000 acre-feet. Above its dam, the reservoir drains 695 square miles of land. It has a shoreline extending up to 60 miles. The lake is situated on the eastern end of the Cross Timbers region, with most of its waters located within Denton County.

According to the Texas Water Development Board, the lake has an average depth of 31 feet and a maximum depth of about 75 feet. The lake has a relatively flat bottom with a few submerged humps and rocky points in some areas.

History And Purpose

Grapevine Lake, situated near the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex, is renowned for its picturesque views that have captivated the hearts of locals and tourists alike. However, not many know about the fascinating backstory that led to the creation of this splendid man-made lake.

Congress passed the River and Harbors Act in 1945, which paved the way for Grapevine Dam’s construction in Texas, primarily built for flood control and navigation. Still, it has since expanded to include recreation and water supply for nearby cities.

Denton Creek Dam construction started in January 1948 and was finished in June 1952. Water impoundment started in July 1952. The government purchased around 12,000 acres of farmland for the project, leaving many property owners feeling disheartened as they lost their livelihoods due to domain laws requiring compulsory purchase at the appraised value. Despite the grievances, citizens accepted the outcomes.

The Army Corps of Engineers undertook the monumental task of constructing Grapevine Lake, which took five years of unenviable undertaking that ended with a grand sense of pride enveloping many citizens in the early years. Despite concerns that the lake would take up to a decade to fill up, only one bountiful rainfall swelled up Lake Grapevine with enough water.

What sets Grapevine Lake apart is its purpose-built flood control feature. The reservoir’s main functions are flood control and serving as a municipal water reservoir, with recreation and open-space areas serving as a supplemental purpose.

Unfurling the rich history of Lake Grapevine unravels a mesmerizing journey through time where tales of pioneers, Native American heritage, and vibrant cultural significance converge.

Recreational Activities

Grapevine Lake is a popular destination for recreational and water activities. The lake is surrounded by parks and marinas. The lake’s scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a great spot for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors, whether it’s for a day trip, weekend getaway, or extended vacation.

Below are some examples of the variety of recreational activities that Grapevine Lake has to offer:

• Swimming
• Water sports
• Camping
• Hiking
• Biking
• Fishing

The lake features:

• Boat ramps
• Trails
• Parks

Additional Activities:

• Vista del Lago Visitor Center
• Organized sports for youth and adults
• Volunteering programs offered by the Grapevine Parks and Recreation Department
• Visitors can enjoy indoor activities such as walking at the Grapevine Mills shopping center or participating in health and fitness activities at the REC of Grapevine.

Fishing

Types Of Fish

Grapevine Lake is a prime destination for those seeking exciting and varied fishing opportunities. The lake’s expansive water coverage boasts numerous fish species, including largemouth and spotted bass, white crappie, and bluegill fish, among others.

It’s worth noting that some fishes found at Grapevine Lake have specific regulations to protect their population. Largemouth bass, for example, fall under statewide management regulations and have a daily limit of five.

Best Fishing Spots

Fishing at Grapevine Lake is an unmatched experience that offers a plethora of spots to catch various types of fish. The drop-offs and underwater boulders near the shorelines offer the perfect getaway to catch some fish. Moreover, tire reefs concentrate lively fish populations that can offer a challenge to anglers. These fish promise an exciting and memorable fight that will keep any angler hooked.

For those who yearn for a more authentic and rustic fishing experience, the Twin Coves area at Grapevine Lake is a must-visit. The area’s enveloping waves create an ideal habitat for submerged timber, leaving just enough room for anglers to maneuver their rod and lure, bringing an air of unpredictability to every catch. The shoreline attracts different species of fish thanks to the boulders and debris that adorn it, making it an angler’s paradise.

Another great spot to explore is the water intake by the Grapevine spillway. Its aeration system is a favorite spot for white bass and crappie schools to huddle and escape predators, making it an excellent location to catch your favorite fish of the day. Don’t miss the chance to explore this gem of a location and experience a fishing trip like no other!

The Best Launch Spots and Marinas

Marinas

Grapevine Lake boasts of three marinas, each providing access to an active boating community. Scott’s Landing and Silver Lake sit on Grapevine’s south shore, while Twin Coves is located northwards, in a location known as Flower Mound.

Launch Spots

Meadowmere Park

Meadowmere Park is a top choice for many, thanks to its two ramps in various areas, each with two lanes and parking facilities for up to 30 or 50 vehicles. However, a boat launch fee is required, and annual passes are available all year round.

Lakeview Park

Lakeview Park features two ramps, each with one lane and parking space for up to 15 vehicles per ramp. Here, visitors must also pay a boat launch fee, and annual passes are available throughout the year.

Vineyards Campgrounds and Cabins

At Vineyards Campgrounds and Cabins, you’ll find a ramp with two lanes for quick launches and ample parking. However, please note that this ramp is only open to overnight guests who must pay fees before using it.

Katie’s Woods Park

If you’re looking for more extensive facilities, visit Katie’s Woods Park, which offers one double-lane ramp, parking space for up to 47 vehicles, and a high-water ramp with two lanes. Like others, visitors must pay a boat launch fee, and annual passes are available year-round.

Silverlake Marina

Another excellent option is Silverlake Marina which features a double-lane ramp and plenty of parking for vehicles. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the parking lot is quite a distance from the ramp.

Additional Spots

Oake Grove Park, Murrell Park & Twin Coves Marina, Twin Coves Park, and Trophy Club Park offer even more fantastic opportunities to launch your vessel into the gorgeous waters of Grapevine Lake.

Camping

Grapevine Lake is a top getaway site for adventurers. The lake’s vicinity boasts multiple campgrounds catering to visitors’ preferences including:

Meadowmere Park

A popular camping option available on the south side of the lake is Meadowmere Park, offering unique camping spots with some locations right along the shoreline, while others are a short distance away from the water body. Each site has a covered picnic area and fire pit for those chilly nights.

Vineyard’s Campground

Probably the best place to set up camp near the lake is Vineyard’s Campground. It boasts well-maintained grounds, good-quality restrooms, and roomy RV sites, making it suitable for larger groups or solo travelers. Visitors can enjoy cabins, RVs, or tent camping. Boat ramps allow for easy to the waters below. You can extend your activities beyond boating and try the fishing pier or hiking trails with serene landscapes.

Twin Coves Campground

Twin Coves Campground, accessible from the north shore, is another excellent choice that offers tent-camping suitability alongside RV facilities. It boasts cabin rental options at affordable prices. This campground has pavilions tucked amid pine trees, sprouting wildflowers, ponds, and meandering footpaths and trails.

Visitors can rent kayaks, paddle boats, or electric trolling boats, creating ample opportunity to explore the lake.

Murrell Park

For those wanting a well-run facility in a stunning location, Murrell Park is one option you want to take advantage of. Located atop the ridge, it provides roughly about 22 non-electric tent campsites for that chance to relax and enjoy some of nature’s finest beauty around Grapevine Lake. Visitors can stay for two nights on weekends and three on holidays, so plan your trip accordingly.

Safety Tips

Here are some crucial swimming, boating, and camping safety tips you should adhere to while visiting Grapevine Lake:

Swimming Safety

Before taking a dip in the lake’s deep waters, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re proficient in swimming techniques. Avoid swimming near bridge pilings and buoy floats, as they pose potential entanglement hazards.

Regardless of your swimming abilities, it is strongly recommended that you wear personal floatation devices (PFDs) or life jackets while enjoying water sports to minimize the risk of drowning in unforeseen circumstances. These essential safety measures provide an added layer of protection and peace of mind, ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable time on the lake.

Boating Safety

To ensure a safe boating experience, it’s imperative to have your boat serviced recently and check for any faults before heading into open waters. When you embark on your journey, be sure to bring proof of ownership, such as registration paperwork, and all required equipment, including floating PFDs for every passenger on board to ensure maximum safety.

Additionally, make sure you carry essential emergency supplies, such as a paddle, a whistle for alerting boats during poor visibility, and a flashlight. These items can come in handy during unexpected emergencies, such as engine failures or sudden weather changes. In the event of a storm, it’s imperative not to attempt navigation. Instead, seek shelter and await the rescue team from the park rangers.

Camping Safety

To maintain cleanliness at your campsite, it’s essential to discard any trash in designated areas. A good practice is to use bins that shut tightly and provide animal-safe provisions. Unfilled bags tend to attract wildlife scavenging for food residues, which can result in dangerous encounters.

When starting a campfire, exercise caution with open flames. Monitor the fire diligently and ensure that it’s fully extinguished before retiring for the night. Never leave flames unattended, as even the slightest change in wind can cause embers to jump to nearby locations, potentially sparking forest fires. This poses significant risks and hazards, not only to nature but also to visitors.

How to Preserve Grapevine Lake’s Ecology When Visiting

Here are two essential features you need to preserve when visiting Grapevine Lake:

Environmental Preservation

Grapevine Lake used to be pristine, but sadly, human actions like littering on beaches and waterways have caused its natural state to deteriorate over the years. The reckless dumping of harmful chemicals into the water has also contributed to this problem. To reduce our impact on the environment, we should make an effort to carry out all used items with us when we leave.

It’s also crucial to follow park trails and avoid restricted areas to maintain vegetation cover and prevent soil exposure that can lead to erosion. Erosion makes the area unsuitable for growth, particularly during long periods of dry, arid weather. By being mindful of these guidelines, we can help preserve Grapevine Lake’s beauty for ourselves and future generations.

Wildlife Preservation

Grapevine Lake is a natural habitat for many birds, reptiles, and mammals that blend perfectly within the surrounding ecosystems. While visiting the lake, protecting these animals is crucial by refraining from feeding them with human food or leaving fishing baits in their territory. 

Many items contain harmful chemicals that may cause diseases or even death for wildlife. Also, negative changes in animal surroundings could force them out of their habitat, putting them at further risk of predators and poachers. 

After all is said and done, you’re better off keeping a safe distance, simply observing and appreciating nature’s beauty. 

In Conclusion

Grapevine Lake is a stunning destination that caters to swimming, fishing, and nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the shores or participating in any of the available activities, taking a moment to consider the impact of your actions on the ecosystem is crucial. As Grapevine Lake continues to flourish and evolve, allow it to contribute to your future unforgettable moments!