Presenter: Bryan Frazier

Commission Agenda Item No. 14
Briefing
State Parks Family Fishing Celebration
November 2006

I. Executive Summary: Staff will update the Commission on the continuation of the Family Fishing Celebration.

II. Discussion: The Family Fishing Celebration began in 2003 as an initiative to get more people introduced to, and involved in, the sport of fishing. As an incentive, TPWD waives the fishing license and all stamp requirements for state park visitors fishing from the bank or piers within state park boundaries, or from a boat if done in a body of water totally contained within the boundaries of a state park. This also includes some parks on the Texas Gulf Coast, and as long as the person is fishing inside the state park boundary, the fishing license and stamp requirements for saltwater angling are waived. In all fishing environments, however, all applicable harvest bag limits and length limits are still enforced. State Parks offer special events and programs throughout the year to further encourage youth and adults alike to develop or sharpen their angler skills, and to share in family fishing experiences. In the last two years, select parks have been able to hire an individual contract worker (with funds provided from TPWD Angler Education branch) to help coordinate specific fishing events during the summer season. Currently, the Family Fishing Celebration has executive approval through August 31, 2007 and its goals remain to both enhance state park visitors' experience, as well as increase awareness and participation in fishing and outdoor recreation-- keeping with the TPWD Mission and Land and Water Resources Conservation and Recreation Plan Goals.