TPWD News Releases

Gulf Shrimp Season Closes May 15

AUSTIN- The Gulf of Mexico commercial shrimp season for both Texas and federal waters will close 30 minutes after sunset on Wednesday, May 15, until a still-to-be determined date in July. While the statutory opening date for the gulf season is July 15, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) Coastal Fisheries Division will be sampling shrimp populations this summer to determine the optimum opening date. The Texas shrimp fishery is closed annually to allow brown shrimp to reach a larger and more valuable size prior to harvest.

Displaced Wildlife May be Found in Unlikely Places as Flooding Recedes

AUSTIN — As flood waters begin to recede across much of Central and East Texas, property owners may encounter wildlife in unexpected places. Floods can temporarily displace wildlife like snakes, armadillos, skunks and raccoons into some people’s yards and houses as they seek cover or higher ground.

Bois d’Arc, Texas’ Newest Lake, Opens for Great Fishing Following Intense Stocking and Habitat Installation Efforts

BONHAM — When Bois d’Arc Lake in Fannin County officially opened for use in April, Texas got its first major reservoir in more than 30 years. But early results indicate anglers may have a budding new fishing haven as well, thanks to a partnership formed between Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD).

Public Comment Sought for Proposed Deer Carcass Disposal Regulations

AUSTIN — Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is seeking public comment until May 22 on proposed deer carcass disposal regulations and movement restrictions.

Official Media Statement: Flood Impacts to TPWD

TPWD Spearheads Fish Replenishment Efforts at Lake Dunlap

NEW BRAUNFELS – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) Inland Fisheries Division Corpus Christi District recently launched an effort to rebuild the fishery at Lake Dunlap. The reservoir was refilled with water in the fall after a dam-failure repair, but years of low water levels had a detrimental effect on the fish population.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Partner with American Canoe Association for ‘Kayaking 101’ Instruction to Kick Off National Safe Boating Week

AUSTIN – To launch National Safe Boater Week, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCG Auxiliary) are joining the Texas chapter of the American Canoe Association (ACA Texas) May 18 to offer low-cost kayaking instruction at Texas State Parks.

Texas Fish Art Contest Unveils 2024 Winners

ATHENS – The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) is pleased to announce the 2024 winners of the Texas division of the Wildlife Forever’s Fish Art Contest.

Lights Out Initiative Asks for Action During Spring Migration

AUSTIN — Spring is the peak time for bird migration through Texas, and the bright lights of cities and towns can confuse birds as they fly to their northern breeding grounds. Texans are encouraged to help our winged friends on their journey by turning “Lights Out” at night across the state from March 1- June 15, with peak migration occurring April 22 through May 12.

Official Media Statement: Alligators in Waco