For the states southernmost dwellers, Sheldon Reservoir offers a nice fishing reprieve if they can bear the sweltering heat. Dating back to 1943, the reservoir was originally created to provide freshwater for shipping on the Houston Ship Channel during World War II. It’s proximity to Houston is now one of the lake’s biggest assets, lying just 16 miles east of the city’s downtown district. Sheldon Reservoir does not approach the size of some of the gargantuan pools that lie to its northeast, covering a mere 1,230 acres, with a deepest point of just 10 feet. Surprisingly, the shallow depths of Sheldon served as Houston’s main water supply for an entire decade, until the much larger Lake Houston was created in 1953. Sheldon Lake was then purchased by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, after which its primary function has been to serve as a fishing locale and waterfowl sanctuary. The area’s wildlife is still its trademark feature to this date. In 1984, the lake and surrounding land was christened the Sheldon State Wildlife Management Area.The catfish and crappie are the most common catches in the reservoir; however, moderate largemouth bass and sunfish populations are supported as well. It should be noted that anglers in the area are restricted to traditional pole and line methods only. Fishing is not the only draw for outdoorsmen to Sheldon Lake. While the water is kept well stocked with a variety of fish, the open air and treetops can be just as intriguing. A recent 5-year survey and inventory counted 249 distinct bird species in the area, migrating in and out over the course of the year. In the spring months, over 200 individual bird species can be found on site. Though only around 160 species are regularly viewable in winter months, it is recommended as the best season for birdwatchers. A variety of birds less common to the region make their way towards Sheldon’s warm waters, boasting over 90 species of wintering birds in the area per day.