Mathis, TX Mathis Fishing, Birding, Plenty of Recreation Mathis has long been synonymous with good fishing and water recreation, but the city and surrounding area have much more to offer residents and visitors alike. Founded in 1889 after Thomas Henry Mathis gave 100 acres from his ranch to house railroad workers, the area continues to be a rich agricultural area, with agribusiness the staple of the local economy. In addition to the agricultural economy, the area has become a popular haven for Winter Texans. Mathis is home to Lake Corpus Christi, with record-sized catfish, plentiful bass and crappie populations, and an abundance of birds and wildlife. Lake Corpus Christi has never been better for all kinds of water recreation, from swimming and water skiing to boating and jet skiing.
Boat ramps are plentiful around the lake.
Two are located inside the Lake Corpus Christi State Park, where visitors can camp overnight or just spend the day relaxing and picnicking. Wayne's World Safari, a 68-acre safari park three miles from Mathis, is a perfect place for children of all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. The park features a tram ride through pens, where visitors can feed the animals from their seats. Visitors are also free to walk the grounds and spend more time with a variety of exotic and endangered species. In addition to Wayne's World Safari, plans are in the development stages for an antique air museum.