Mike, a couple of thoughts. These are things that I will do if I ever have it to do over again. Drive around and take a look at neighbors. Stop and visit. Ask about depth to water and how their wells are. Contact the Montague and/or Wise County Sheriff's office and ask about local problems. You might wind up with a real nightmare on your hands that someone else is trying to escape. I heard about a five acre place that was about to be foreclosed on. I looked at it and got pretty enthusiastic about its financial potential (after a little dozer work). It is on a county road with a private road coming off the county road. When I drove down the PR, I decided to pass. There is a bunch down there, on adjoining property, that looks like a scene out of the movie Deliverance. You know the type. What is uphill from you? We all live downstream from somebody.

I would get a backhoe in and dig a couple of test holes to assure that you really do have a potential lake site before buying. You have the experience and knowhow to stock it right. Is all of the runoff on you or could a neighbor impound your runoff?

On the existing one, I would do a test to find out how much silt there is. You won't notice the weeds this time of year.

One thing I neglected to note in our previous PM's is the Barnett Shale. Check on who controls the mineral and drilling rights, both surface and sub surface. If you have neither, the Natural Gas Companies or sand and gravel companies can turn your place into a mess. They only have to pay for damages to the land, not to your lifestyle and enjoyment of life. I know you are looking for a scenic place and that can change pretty damn quickly.

How far is it to electric power? Who provides it, TU or Wise Electric? I'm sure you've already considered wildlife and also soil suitability for hay production. The history of the lands usage is important. BTW, no matter which way you choose, bring rain.

It's not about the fish. It's about the pond. Take care of the pond and the fish will be fine. PB subscriber since before it was in color.

Without a sense of urgency, Nothing ever gets done.

Boy, if I say "sic em", you'd better look for something to bite. Sam Shelley Rancher and Farmer Muleshoe Texas 1892-1985 RIP Grandpa