Guadalupe Bay

History

The bay is named after the Guadalupe River, which was named in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe by Alonso De León.

The bay formed as the Guadalupe River delta discharge extended into San Antonio Bay, forming the subdelta headland now found between Hynes and Guadalupe Bays. While the bay's current form only dates to about 500 years ago (and continues to change), human settlement predates the current form. The Karankawa Indians resided on Guadalupe Bay sporadically during the past 2,500 years. Archeological evidence suggests that during the active periods, the Karankawa migrated seasonally between the bays and the inland. During the winter, groups of about 500 would arrive at the bay to fish, hunt and collect shellfish. The salinity of the bay decreased as the San Antonio River joined with the Guadalupe River about 1,500 years ago, diminishing the shellfish population.

By 1967, dredging was complete on the Victoria Barge Canal from Victoria to the Intracoastal Waterway, and ran along the shore of Guadalupe Bay. During construction, ancient artifacts and middens were discovered. Shortly thereafter, the Guadalupe Bay Archeological Site was established.

Ecosystem

Finfish found in the bay include black drum, redfish, sheepshead and spotted seatrout. In the upper reaches, the freshwater varieties of channel catfish, flathead catfish and gar have been caught. Oysters are native to the bay, but cannot be harvested due to restrictions by the state. Shrimping is likewise prohibited due to its classification as a nursery bay.

References

References

1. (May 30, 2010). "Guadalupe Bay". Texas State Historical Association.
2. Smyrl, Vivian Elizabeth. (May 30, 2010). "Guadalupe River". Texas State Historical Association.
3. (March 2009). "Life at Guadalupe Bay". University of Texas.
4. Roell, Craig H.. (May 30, 2010). "Victoria County". Texas State Historical Association.
5. (March 2009). "Investigations". University of Texas.
6. (March 2009). "Natural Setting". The University of Texas.
7. (November 1, 2009). "Classification of Shellfish Harvesting Areas of San Antonio and Espiritu Santo Bays". Texas Department of State Health Services.
8. "Recreational Fishing: Shrimp Regulations". Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.