Bass anglers love power plant lakes in winter, mainly, because they catch more fish in the warmer waters.
A favorite East Texas power plant lake, Brandy Branch Reservoir, likely won’t be hosting as many local bass club tournaments next winter. Southwestern Electric Power Company announced the Pirkey Power Plant, a large coal-powered plant that warms the waters of the small lake, would be closed in March 2023.
SWEPCO told Fox Business the decision came after an economic analysis weighing the cost of environmental compliance with new rules set by the Environmental Protection Agency and needed maintenance.
Closing of the plant, near Hallsville, is estimated to cost $22 million in economic output for the community, and a $2-$3 million loss of tax revenue that could lead to job losses at schools.
Anglers hope the 1,242-acre Harrison County lake will remain open to the public.
