The Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPW) Commission approved proposed rule changes to bag and size limits for spotted seatrout on the middle and lower Texas coast during the January 2022 meeting. The new rules take effect on March 16 in Matagorda Bay, San Antonio Bay, Aransas Bay, Corpus Christi Bay, and the Upper and Lower Laguna Madre Bay systems. From March 16 to August 31, 2023, the spotted seatrout bag and size limits south of […]
Texas Parks and Wildlife
Texas Game Wardens Conclude a Successful Labor Day Weekend on the Water
Texas Game Wardens patrolled more than 2,500 hours throughout the busy Labor Day holiday ensuring boaters and anglers enjoyed a relaxing wrap up to their summer. “With last year’s sharp increase in water-related tourism and accidents, our agency took every precaution available to ensure the safety of all visitors on the water and in our parks,” said Cody Jones, Assistant Commander for Marine Enforcement for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. “We had 354 Texas Game Wardens on patrol […]
Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame Nominations Accepted Through Nov. 1
The Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame committee is seeking nominations through Nov. 1, 2021 for individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to freshwater fishing in Texas for next year’s induction into the hall of fame. “The Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame is made up of a growing list of 36 individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact on freshwater fishing in the state,” said Dan Kessler, TFF Hall of Fame Committee […]
TPW Commissioner, Game Warden and Wildlife Biologist Recognized by TPW Commission
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission (TPW) recognized a Texas Parks and Wildlife commissioner, a game warden and a wildlife biologist during today’s meeting for their contributions and efforts supporting the agency mission. Jeanne Latimer Received Special Recognition as Texas Parks and Wildlife Commissioner Former Texas Parks and Wildlife Commissioner Jeanne W. Latimer received special recognition for her contributions throughout her six-year term. Latimer was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott on November 17, 2015 […]
Texas State Parks Working to Return to Normal Capacity
Texas State Parks have begun a strategic and thoughtful process of expanding capacity statewide, tracking Gov. Greg Abbott’s latest reopening order, and allowing more Texans the opportunity to visit their favorite parks. Masks are strongly encouraged for park visitors, especially when indoors or in areas where it is difficult to socially distance. Also, restrictions affecting group sizes have been lifted. “We’re excited to welcome more visitors to our parks,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks. “We […]
Commission Approves Changes to Texas Exotic Aquatic Species Regulations
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved changes to regulations regarding harmful or potentially harmful fish, shellfish and aquatic plants along with associated fee rules on Tuesday November 10. The changes not only impact permit holders, but there are several key changes relevant to the general public. These new regulations go into effect January 11, 2021. One of the regulations approved by the commission directly affects anglers who may catch exotic fishes such as tilapia […]
Wildlife Experts Encourage Bear Safety Amid Sporadic Sightings in Texas
As occasional bear sightings continue to crop up in the west and southwestern portions of the state, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) encourages residents to practice bear safety as the likelihood of spotting a bear in a populated area increases. Black bears are native to Texas and are a part of our natural heritage and the Texas ecosystem. On Oct. 16, a black bear sow and her cub were spotted in city limits […]