Feb. 2, 2021

Anglers Bag Two More Toyota ShareLunker Legacy Class Lunkers and Two Tournament Titles on Final Weekend of January

AUSTIN – The 2021 Toyota ShareLunker season continued its hot start after anglers reeled in two more Legacy Class Lunkers during the final weekend of January. That brings the total to four this year, equaling the amount caught during the 2020 season with two more months still to go. In addition, both anglers went on to win their respective tournaments due in large part to landing the Legacy Lunkers.

Annual Texas Abandoned Crab Trap Removal Dates Set for 2021

AUSTIN —Each February for 19 years, countless volunteers spend 10 days on the water along the Texas coastline searching the bays for abandoned crab traps left to foul shrimpers’ nets, snag anglers’ lines, “ghost fish,” and create unsightly views. To date, they’ve hauled off more than 38,000 of these derelict traps.

Feb. 1, 2021

Wildlife Experts Ask for Public Help in Reporting Bat Mortality Events

AUSTIN – Last winter, White-nose Syndrome (WNS) was detected in bats in 18 counties in central Texas and the disease has continued to spread. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is monitoring its progression through the state and is asking for the public’s help to understand how WNS is affecting vulnerable bat populations.

Jan. 29, 2021

CARES Act Fisheries Disaster Funding Application Now Available For Commercial Fishing Industry

AUSTIN- Due to the ongoing effects of the COVID – 19 pandemic, the commercial fishing industry is now able to apply for funds from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. This bill was passed by Congress in March 2020 and includes $300 million for coastal states. Texas has been allocated almost $9 million to distribute to eligible commercial fishing sectors.

Jan. 28, 2021

Texas State Park Rangers to Stream Live Black History Month Programs Throughout February

AUSTIN— Park rangers from around Texas, including the Buffalo Soldier Heritage Outreach Program and the Texas Outdoor Family staff, are debuting a new series of virtual programs celebrating Black History throughout the month of February.  The series will culminate in a live, interactive Black History Trivia Challenge for the public at 6 p.m. on Feb. 27.

Jan. 27, 2021

Hueco Tanks State Park, Historic Site Designated as National Historic Landmark

EL PASO – After many years of work and a long application and nomination process, Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site was recently designated as a National Historic Landmark. The federal designation, as recognized by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, acknowledges that the site holds cultural and historical significance to the entire United States.

Balmorhea Closure Extended Due to Ongoing Construction

AUSTIN— Due to ongoing construction projects, Balmorhea State Park has extended its closure for the foreseeable future. A reopening date will be announced at a later date.

Jan. 21, 2021

Zebra Mussels Eradicated from Lake Waco in Central Texas

AUSTIN— The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has determined that invasive zebra mussels have been successfully eradicated from Lake Waco in Central Texas, preventing property damage, protecting water supply infrastructure and avoiding harm to the aquatic ecosystem. The department emphasized the vital importance of continued help from boaters, marina operators and others to Clean, Drain and Dry boats before moving them and remain vigilant to stop the spread.

Jan. 19, 2021

Big Bass are Back as Lake Austin Produces Second Toyota ShareLunker Legacy Class Entry of 2021

AUSTIN – In less than a week, the second Legacy Class largemouth bass of the 2021 Toyota ShareLunker season was reeled in at Lake Austin Thursday evening January 14. Angler CJ Oates, from Lago Vista, Texas, caught the 13.02-pounder just a few days after “ShareLunker 586” was claimed at Sam Rayburn.

Jan. 15, 2021

Despite Pandemic, Great Texas Birding Classic Saw Record Participation in 2020

AUSTIN — For the first time, the 24th annual Great Texas Birding Classic (GTBC) took place in fall instead of spring last year after having been postponed due to the public health crisis. The postponement allowed event organizers to further plan and implement health and safety measures. Despite postponement, the event garnered a record 138 teams registered, with a total of 650 participants across the state.