The stocking of keeper-size channel catfish has started for the 15 Neighborhood Fishin’ lakes in Texas and should be completed soon.
Additional stockings will take place every two weeks through the summer and fall except during August, when high water temperatures may limit fish survival.
“Neighborhood Fishin’ aims to give Texas families a good place to fish close to where they live,” said Dave Terre, TPWD’s director of research and management for Inland Fisheries, in a news release. “We estimate that more than 50,000 people a year participate in the program, and more than half of those are children. Connecting kids to the outdoors through fishing makes them happier and healthier, and they do better in school. Outdoor lifestyles also strengthen families.”
Stocking is a key component of Neighborhood Fishin’, which encourages people to harvest fish and take them home to eat. Channel catfish are stocked from April through October while rainbow trout are stocked in winter months.
Local sponsors play a key role in the Neighborhood Fishin’ program by providing funds to purchase additional fish beyond those made possible by statewide support from the Texas Bass Classic Foundation and the federal Sport Fish Restoration Program. Cities and counties where Neighborhood Fishin’ lakes are located purchase some fish in addition to providing facilities at the sites.
“We target metropolitan areas with populations of 100,000 or more, and we would welcome additional partners in any such area,” Terre said.
Any organization interested in partnering with TPWD on the Neighborhood Fishin’ program should contact Terre at 512-389-4855.
Click here for more information on the Neighborhood Fishin’ program, including locations and directions, tackle loaner programs where available, instructional fishing videos, fishing regulations and program partners.
