A solution to get rid of an invasive weed turned into an environmental experiment. Years later, the City is still trying to bring back life to Lake Austin. AUSTIN, Texas — The Colorado River winds its way through Austin. It’s not just picturesque, it's purposeful, supplying our drinking water and providing recreation and an abundant habitat for wildlife. In 2014, Lake Austin was ranked the eighth best fishing lake in the U.S. by Bassmaster.