The lake at Burroughs Park in Tomball is swimming with life again.

Heavy rainfall over the course of the week allowed Harris County Precinct 4 the opportunity to restock one of its popular fishing locations with 200 pounds of catfish and 200 pounds of bass Feb. 2.

"I have the best job in the world," said Jack Cagle, Precinct 4 commissioner, who presided over the restocking. "I get to bring fish back to the people of Precinct 4."

The catfish are ready to be caught, according to Cagle, but he asked that people follow a catch-and-release policy when dealing with the bass to give them a chance to repopulate.

"Healthy bass is key to keeping a healthy lake," he said. "We want to give everyone a chance to have some fun."

The ongoing drought dried up enough of the lake to leave it 5–6 feet below an ideal level, according to Dennis Johnston, Harris County parks director. The recent heavy rains helped it get back about three feet of water.

"The drought is not over, but when you're in the midst of it and you get a little water, it's reason to celebrate," Cagle said. "We're very blessed to have these beautiful jewels right here in Harris County."

Matt Bonette, who lives in Spring, came out to view the restocking. He visits Burroughs Park regularly and said he thinks adding fish to the lake will encourage more people to stop by.

"There are a lot of local fishermen around, but once the lake dried up things got a little tough," he said. "Once word gets out, we could start seeing a larger group of people around here."

Spring resident Travis Teykle said he looks forward to bringing his family back.

"My family likes to come out here with our kids and our dogs," he said. "Now that fishing is back on, we might start coming a little more often."

Burroughs Park is located at 9738 Hufsmith Road, Tomball.