MOUNTAIN HOME – In May 1925, the Heart of the Hills State Fish Hatchery, now known as Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) Heart of the Hills Fisheries Science Center, was born in the Texas Hill Country. One hundred years later, the hatchery continues to play an important role in ensuring the science-based management and conservation of freshwater fisheries in Texas.
AUSTIN – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has chosen 11 new projects to be supported by the Habitat and Angler Access Program (HAAP) during its 2026-27 funding cycle. Launched in summer 2021, the Habitat and Angler Access Program is primarily funded by the purchase of freshwater fishing licenses.
ATHENS – The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) will reopen Oct. 8 following the completion of emergency repairs to a steel structural support column in the main visitor center building. The visitor center has remained closed since emergency repairs began in early August.
AUSTIN – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) encourages Texans to take their friends and family into the outdoors to celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day on Sept. 27.
ATHENS — The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) has opened the Texas division of Wildlife Forever’s 2026 Fish Art Contest for entries.
ATHENS — The Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame committee is accepting nominations for next year’s induction into the hall of fame. Nominees can be either individuals or organizations who’ve made important contributions to fishing in Texas. Applications will be accepted through Nov. 1.
AUSTIN – As Texans get ready for Labor Day weekend and the opening of teal hunting season on Sept. 20, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) urges boaters, paddlers and waterfowl hunters to do their part to protect Texas lakes from aquatic invasive species.
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will open its annual Alligator Gar Harvest Authorization drawing application process Sept. 1. The random drawing authorizes anglers to harvest one alligator gar over 48 inches from a section of the Trinity River.
AUSTIN – Fall is upon us and for hunters and anglers that can only mean one thing, it is time to renew hunting and fishing licenses. Before taking the boat out or hitting the field, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) reminds hunters and anglers to purchase their new licenses for the 2025-26 season.
AUSTIN – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will offer fully digital options for all recreational hunting, fishing and combo license and tag types when 2025-26 licenses go on sale Aug. 15th. In March, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved the expansion of digital license and tag options.