A Billion Fish and Coastal Infrastructure Projects

If scorching heat is your idea of great fishing weather then you ought to be thrilled. I don’t believe the thermometer has hit a hundred yet, but Lord it’s been close. My personal relief strategy is getting on the water at the crack of dawn and back at the dock around noon. Wading waist-deep certainly helps. We are also fond of late afternoon trips, especially when the tide and solunar tables align favorably. Either way you decide to go, be sensible as regards sun exposure and hydration. Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, face masks and lots of non-alcoholic beverages will help you stay in the game.

I want to draw your attention to a couple of significant articles presented in this issue. First is TPWD’s announcement and celebration of one billion fish stocked since the inception of their fish hatchery and stock enhancement programs. Among the U.S. coastal states, Texas is the undisputed leader in saltwater stock enhancement. In fact, the hatchery and rearing protocols developed right here in Texas for red drum, spotted seatrout, and southern flounder are the basis for nearly all the saltwater stock enhancement programs practiced in other states and even elsewhere in the world. Texans have many things to be proud of and this is certainly one of them. With shrinking habitat and growing participation in saltwater fishing, Mother Nature needs all the help she can get. Kudos to TPWD on this great accomplishment!

Second is the CCA Texas Advocacy Update. Texas is a huge state with a powerful economy, mighty industries that are expanding rapidly, and a burgeoning human population. Our population surpassed 30 million in 2022 and is projected to top 50 million in the next 20 years. Where all these people will live and work, and how basic needs such as public water supply for human, industrial, and agricultural needs will be met are enormous questions. The strain that will be placed on natural resources can only be imagined, not the least of which will be our bays, estuaries, and fisheries. Shane Bonnot has provided an excellent update on several projects already underway or in planning stages that have potential to alter the coastal landscape very significantly. Through all of this, it is good to know that CCA Texas and a host of other fine organizations and agencies have their eyes on the ball to insure the future wellbeing of our precious coastal resources remain front and center during planning and execution of these necessary projects.

In closing, if you are not already a member, I want to encourage all our readers to join CCA Texas. And while you’re at it, get the whole family registered for the STAR tournament!