Abstract: This paper provides a general review on mathematical models of optimal operation for the Three-Gorge-Reservoir-centered Yangtze River flood control system, divided into two parts—one dealing with flood routing simulation models and the other with optimal joint operational models for the reservoirs. The former including a hydrologic routing model, an 1-D unsteady flow model (from Yichang to Wuhan), an 1-D and 2-D hybrid unsteady flow model, and a 2-D rounting model for flood-divisions and flood-plains, is used to simulate dynamic processes of flood routing and effects of flood mitigation measures in the system, the latter consisting of an overall-control models and models of Fuzzy decision-making, large-scale system decoupling and network flows, is applied to determine optimal operational strategies for the reservoirs, to gain maximum flood control benefits.