Pond Boss Forums GENERAL QUESTIONS Help ownership question

In Texas when more than one persons property is touching the shore of a lake how is the dividing lines of each property decided since they are under water. We have 35 acres that backs up to a 40 acre lake and I would like to put a small dock out but we have had problems with the owner accross the way about whos is whos.Any help would be appreciated.

Consult your survey for property lines. If you don't have a copy go to the county where the property is located.

MRInc.
Dave's advise right on, I'll only add if a major stream is feeding the lake IE: (large enough to float without touching bottom), here in NC no one owns the water in a major waterway. So, a floating dock doesn't touch bottom & the land owner can't disallow it so long as it originates on your property. Might be the case even if it's not a major waterway. Something to check into.
Ric

Thanks for opinions.I have the survey and I know that the lake backs up onto about three acres of our property and he thinks that is they limit of the area we are allowed to fish but I believe I have access to all the water long as I dont step onto his property. I might be wrong but I know thats the law for public lakes "fishing around marinas and private boat docks".The lake has a good population of 1-2 pound bass and i have caught several 9-11's 3 this year but nothing in between. The larger fish are a little stunted although the last fish was just barely stunted looking. I have been taking 10-20 fish a month to eat thinking it would help the smaller fish grow. any thing bigger than 2lbs I release.

This might not be a popular answer or what you are seeking, but... Regardless of what the law actually allows, think about what is right/fair?

I agree with your neighbor that you should only fish on the 3 or so acres that you own. I can also easily understand why this could be a very hot issue with him - especially if he is the one who went to the expense of building/stocking the lake or who is paying property taxes on the other 37 acres.

If you want to benefit disproportionately, install some fish feeders and improve the habitat/structure/etc on your three acres so that more fish congregate there.

Basically, I encourage your to not think about what is legal, but to think about what is right. I believe that the correct approach is then clear.

In reviewing the thread again, I see absolutely no reason why you should not put a dock on your property.