Guide to Developing Community FisheriesThe purpose of this guide is to assist communities in...

Guide to DevelopingCommunity Fisheries

The Texas Chapter of the American Fisheries Society

Urban Fishing Committee

A Publicationof

The Texas Chapterof the

American Fisheries SocietyUrban Fishing Committee

September 1996

Guide to DevelopingCommunity Fisheries

Guide To Developing Community Fisheriesii

Table of Contents

iiiGuide To Developing Community Fisheries

Overview .......................................................................................................................................................v

Potential Benefits .................................................................................................................................1Introduction ............................................................................................................ 1Community Benefits ............................................................................................... 2Citizen Benefits ...................................................................................................... 2

Developing a Program in Your Community .......................................................................3Guiding Principles .................................................................................................. 3Target Audiences.................................................................................................... 4Fishing Locations.................................................................................................... 5Swimming Pool Fisheries........................................................................................ 6

Comprehensive Community Fisheries Programs .......................................................7Aquatic Resource Management .............................................................................. 7Fish Populations ..................................................................................................... 8Put-and-Take Fisheries ........................................................................................... 9Put-Grow-and-Take Fisheries ............................................................................... 10Self-Sustaining Fisheries....................................................................................... 10Habitat Management Techniques .......................................................................... 11Facilities Management .......................................................................................... 13Aquatic Education Programs................................................................................. 14Recreational Fishing Events.................................................................................. 17

Conducting a Fishing Clinic....................................................................................................... 18Preparing for an Event .......................................................................................... 18Coordinating the Event ......................................................................................... 25

Appendices ............................................................................................................................................. 26A. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Field Offices ........................................ 26B. Stocking and Permitting Policies ..................................................................... 27C. Educational Materials ..................................................................................... 28D. Fishing Conservation and Education Program Contacts................................... 32E. University Contacts ......................................................................................... 33F. Fisheries Extension Specialists, Texas A&M University ................................. 34G. Sources of Rainbow Trout .............................................................................. 35H. Sources of Fishing Equipment......................................................................... 37 I. Texas River Authorities................................................................................... 39

Guide To Developing Community Fisheriesiv

Overview

vGuide To Developing Community Fisheries

The purpose of this guide is to assist communities inprov id ing public fishing opportunities and developing

recreational fishing programs which promote ethical,responsible use of aquatic resources. It is written formultiple audiences and is intended to serve as a sourcedocument for anyone interested in developing or enhancingcommunity fisheries. While specific recommendations maynot apply to every situation, the principles are offered toprovide the greatest possible benefits to the greatest numberof people. Communities may choose to emphasize selectivecomponents of community fisheries and build programs overtime as budgets and resources permit.

Different sections of this document may appeal to differentreaders. Potential Benefits promotes the concept ofcommunity fisheries and suggests potential benefits to al linterested parties. Developing A Program in YourCommunity outlines procedures for initiating communityprograms and presents informal information whichdecision makers may use in establishing programobjectives. In Comprehensive Community FisheriesPrograms, various components of community fisheries arediscussed in detail. This section presents a number of optionsfrom which communities may pick and choose to meet theirprogram objectives. Comprehensive Community FisheriesPrograms also serves as a starting place for potentialcooperators and suggests opportunities for citizeninvolvement. Conducting a Fishing Clinic providesdetailed, step-by-step instructions for organizing andconducting fishing clinics. Finally, the Appendices providefurther information and resources for the reader.

THE TEXAS CHAPTEROF THE

AMERICAN FISHERIES SOCIETY

URBAN FISHING COMMITTEEc/o Texas Parks and Wildlife

DepartmentInland Fisheries Division4200 Smith School Rd.

Austin, TX 78744-3291(512) 389-4655

Contributing Authors:

Bobby FarquharJohn DennisRobert Ditton

Charlie MungerRichard OttMike ReedMark WebbRay Whitney

Edited by:TCAFS Editorial Committee

Ray WhitneyFred Janssen

Initial printing fundedby

TEXAS PARKS AND

WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT

NONGAME & URBAN PROGRAM4200 Smith School Rd.

Austin, TX 78744-3291(800) 792-1112

Layout by

603 S. Willow St.Mansfield, TX 76063-2417

(817) 473-7660

Guide To Developing Community Fisheriesvi

Guide To Developing Community Fisheries

Fishing is a means by which people can touch each other's lives.Whether it's a parent or grandparent spending time with familymembers or a group of professional anglers sponsoring arecreational fishing event for underprivileged children, fishingcan be the point at which lives come together. Fishing is anactivity which cuts across generation gaps, social classes, and alllevels of ability to unite people in a common respect for theenvironment and appreciation of the outdoors.

While many Texans currently enjoy sport fishing, others are notable to fish in the area where they live or as often as they wouldlike. In some areas, fishing opportunities are limited to anglerswith the time, financial means, and physical ability to travelrelatively large distances to remote fishing locations.

To provide fishing opportunities in urban areas, where themajority of people live, many state and federal fisheriesmanagement agencies have developed urban fisheries programs.These agencies, as well as a number of conservationorganizations, have demonstrated their commitment tocommunity fisheries through involvement with fisheriesmanagement plans, fish stockings, angler education programs,and recreational fishing events. In response to increased publicinterest and changing demographic patterns, efforts to includelocal communities in the fisheries management process haveincreased. Community service organizations have alsocontributed through their own outreach activities, although thecombined efforts still do not meet the demand for fishingopportunities in urban areas.

The term “community fisheries” is defined as providing orenhancing public fishing opportunities so people can fish in thecommunity where they live. While "urban fisheries" has beenused in the past, the term "community fisheries" moreappropriately conveys the intent of this guide. A communitymay refer to any group of people in a particular area, regardlessof population size or whether the area is urban, suburban, orrural. Fishery resources belong to the members of a communityand the success of fishery programs is dependent uponcommunity interest and support.

This guide is intended tohelp communities make

greater use of their aquaticresources by:

• encouraging citizens tobecome involved inconducting fishing clinics,improving access, creatinghabitat, picking up trash,testing water quality,stocking fish, and otherrelated activities;

• encouraging schools andcommunity centers to adoptan Aquatic Educationcurriculum and coordinateoutdoor education andrecreational fishingactivities;

• assisting communityorganizations in developingcooperative relationshipswith aquatic resourceprofessionals andcontrolling authorities toinvolve citizens in aquaticresource management intheir communities;

• encouraging at least oneannual fishing event inevery community. Eventsdraw attention to fisheryresources, involve localgroups, and provideopportunities for childrenand non-traditional usergroups to become involvedin recreational fishing.

Potential Benefits

Introduction

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Potential community benefits include:

• providing wholesome, relatively inexpensivesources of recreation;

• increased public awareness of the need forclean parks and healthy aquatic resources;

• good public relations and the potential tocreate a positive image for the community;

• recognition for providing meaningfulservices to constituents;

• potential public support for capitalimprovement projects;

• cooperative relationships between naturalresource management agencies andcommunity service organizations.

For city governments, investing in a communityfisheries program demonstrates concern for theenvironment. We live in an age when citizenswant to be involved with natural resourcemanagement in their communities.Unfortunately, when it comes to developmentversus the environment, the city government isoften depicted as the enemy. Developing acommunity fisheries program can help offset theloss of aquatic habitat and help restore abalanced perspective of the city’s role in landmanagement. It might even be possible toinvolve citizens in habitat restoration efforts andfund community fisheries programs withmitigation funds from community development.

Potential benefits to citizens include:

• opportunities for participation andinstruction in sport fishing;

• a wholesome, outdoor recreational activityencouraging family participation;

• an increased awareness of environmentalissues;

• opportunities for community involvement;

• economic benefits to local businesses eitherthrough sponsorship of activities or as aresult of being located in an area wherepeople come to fish;

• a source of fish for personal consumption.

Many of the benefits of recreational fishing areintangible and difficult to measure. How doesone quantify the value of spending timeoutdoors, interacting with nature, or enjoyingthe company of family and friends? Suchpositive outdoor experiences can have asignificant impact on our quality of life and ouroutlook on natural resource management.Community fisheries programs help instillenvironmental consciousness. Children wholearn to identify and respect the variety of life inurban waters near their homes will be much lesslikely to destroy them. Adults who know theirchildren might someday be fishing in the waterthat runs off their lawns may think twice aboutindiscriminate use of pesticides and carelessdisposal of oil.

Community Benefits Citizen Benefits

Potential Benefits

Community fisheries programs offer a variety of benefits to communities and their citizens.

These and many other benefits are available as a result of community fisheries programs. The nextunit, Developing a Program in Your Community, presents the starting place for realizing thesebenefits in your own community.

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This section is written forcommunity leaders who

wish to initiate thedevelopment of communityfisheries programs. Guidelinesare presented for developingpublic support and establishingprogram objectives.Suggestions for selectingcommunity fishery locationsare also included.

The primary goal ofcommunity fisheries programsis to make greater use ofaquatic resources byenhancing recreational fishingopportunities and facilitatingconservation educationprograms. Although programswill vary betweencommunities, a modelprogram:

• provides opportunity forpositive fishingexperiences for individualswho otherwise might notbe exposed to fishing;

• promotes responsiblenatural resource use andangler ethics;

• provides exposure toselected conservation andaquatic educationconcepts;

• provides instruction inbasic fishing skills andtechniques.

When considering developing a fisheries program in yourcommunity, begin with a meeting of representatives from the localparks and recreation department and the Texas Parks and WildlifeDepartment (TPWD) District Fisheries Biologist. Inform localuniversity science departments, private fish farmers, and othernatural resource conservation professionals. Invite all interestedparties to a planning session and present the program's goals andopportunities for service.

It is important to recognize the cooperative nature of communityfisheries programs. No single entity should try to control all thecomponents themselves. It is recommended that the parks andrecreation department develop advisory teams and make effectiveuse of community organizations. For example, the parksdepartment may take on facilities management responsibilities,local schools and recreation centers may teach aquatic education,and community and civic groups may organize recreational fishingevents. Funding for community fisheries programs may come froma number of sources, including sponsorship by communitybusinesses. Effective programs will share responsibilities betweenseveral community organizations.

The following guidelines for developing community fisheries arerecommended:

• to be sustainable, day-to-day leadership for programs needs tocome from within communities rather than state government;

• a partnership of public and private organizations is needed todevelop and enhance community fisheries where each partnerplays a complementary role;

• the initial role of the fisheries management agency is tofacilitate development of community fisheries programs. Toaccomplish this, the community needs to initiate discussion ofthe demand for sport fishing in the local area and constraints tomeeting this demand;

• fisheries programs vary between communities depending oncurrent availability of public fishing opportunities and theextent to which effective partnerships can be forged;

• community fisheries programs should contain an educationalcomponent that promotes wise use of natural resources andcontinued participation in sport fishing;

• although programs should be available to all citizens, thosewith limited opportunities to participate in recreational fishingshould be targeted.

Developing a Program in Your Community

Guiding Principles

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While community fishing resources are usedmost often by individuals who do not haveconvenient access to more distant (and costly)fishing opportunities, it is still reasonable toexpect a diversity of users within urbanizedareas. In addition to lower mobility anglers,target audiences might also include individualswho lack the time necessary to fish elsewhere orthose being introduced to fishing by parents,grandparents, or other family members (manywith extensive fishing experience).

Target Audiences


An individual angler with a channel catfish.

A group of friends with rainbow trout. A father and son prepare to fish.

Before implementing a program, an effortshould be made to contact current and potentialparticipants to find out what types of anglersfish in the community and what their needs andpreferences are for recreational fishingprograms. This can be accomplished with a usersurvey distributed at current fishing locations orthrough the use of focus groups in thecommunity. Angler interviews can provideinsight into the success of fishing programs anddirection for future actions. Basic informationfrom anglers to consider when developing orrefocusing a community fisheries program mightinclude:

• social and demographic information, i.e.,age, sex, education level, and race orethnicity;

• social group they fish with most often(family or friends);

• species of fish caught in community waters;

• species anglers would prefer to catch;

• facility, program, and fisheries managementpreferences;

• user satisfaction with community fishingopportunities.

4


Community fishery resources include ponds orlakes within public parks, streams or riversthrough areas with public access, water frontsalong reservoirs or coastal areas, or artificialsites such as swimming pools or hatchery ponds.When considering potential locations forcommunity fisheries, consider the following:

• identify the bodies of water which couldpotentially support fish populations;

• contact the Health Department or relatedEnvironmental Services Agency to verifythat there are no known health advisoriesagainst eating fish from the waters beingconsidered. If there is reason to suspect thewaters are contaminated, have watersamples and fish tested or consider usinganother body of water;

• consider whatever private facilities areavailable in the area. Fishing piers in coastalcommunities, fishing barges or floatingdocks in marinas on public reservoirs, orprivate fee-fishing ponds provide convenientfishing locations;

• assess the facilities surrounding the water fortheir accessibility to potential anglers,including the travel distance from targetaudiences;

• determine whether or not the waters arecurrently being managed and whatinformation about the fishery resource isavailable.

Many public waters have been sampled in thepast by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Departmentand more are being sampled each year ascommunity fishing becomes an increasingpriority. A list of District Fisheries ManagementOffices is provided in Appendix A. These officesoften have information about past stocking, fishpopulations, and management that might be ofvalue in assessing the current fisheries status.

Fishing Locations

A slow moving river through a downtown area.


An artificial pond with concrete edges.

5


If suitable waters are not available forrecreational fisheries within your community, orif you just want to provide a novel fishingexperience, consider hosting a swimming poolfishery. In the off season, a swimming pool canprovide an excellent alternative to a pond as acommunity fishery.

In fact, in several ways swimming pools haveadvantages over natural ponds:

• The water tends to be clearer, allowingparticipants to see the fish.

• Fish are more concentrated, often allowinghigher catch rates.

• Areas around pools are usually accessible tophysically challenged participants.

However, there are some special considerations:

• Fish must always be stocked for any fishingactivity.

• Chemicals normally used to maintain waterquality for swimming are lethal to fish.Water must be chemically dechlorinated orallowed to age or turn green. Always testfor chlorine and chloramine beforestocking fish. Both should be completelyeliminated. Dechlorinating chemicals andtest kits can be obtained from swimmingpool supply stores.

• While pools offer added accessibility, thedeep water and sheer sides add safetyconcerns.

Swimming Pool Fisheries


Communities may find that the life of swimming pool fisheries extends well beyond a singleevent. In fact, with occasional stocking, a normally dormant pool can provide recreationthroughout the fall and winter. The facility manager may charge a nominal fee to financestockings of legal size channel catfish (August – November) or rainbow trout (December– March).

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Aquatic Resource Management

Several federal, state, and local agencies work with communitygovernments and controlling authorities to manage aquaticresources within their jurisdictions. Although this publicationemphasizes fishery resources, healthy aquatic resources benefitbirds, mammals, reptiles, fish, amphibians, crustaceans, insects,and plants.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is the lead agencywith fisheries management responsibility in public waters. Inorder to manage recreational fisheries, biologists surveyexisting fish populations, assist with fish stocking, and makerecommendations to improve fish habitat and reproductivepotential (if necessary). As work schedules permit, biologistsproduce management plans for each body of water whichinclude results of the assessment and managementrecommendations. Other organizations, such as universityenvironmental science and biology departments, the TexasAgricultural Extension Service, the Texas Natural ResourceConservation Commission, or private fisheries managers mayalso provide technical information and assistance.

Community fisheriesprograms may take many

forms. While many groupsand organizations are involvedin various aspects ofcommunity fisheries, there arefew coordinated efforts tobring the different componentstogether. In order to receivethe greatest benefits fromcommunity fishery resources,all the elements should becoordinated in aComprehensive CommunityFisheries Program.

The components of aComprehensive CommunityFisheries Program includeaquatic resource management,facilities management,organized aquatic educationprograms, and recreationalfishing events. This chapterputs these various componentsin perspective and presentsalternatives for achievingprogram objectives. Eachsection presents backgroundinformation to help clarify howeach element would fit into acomprehensive program.Depending on the programobjectives and the interests ofpotential cooperators, aprogram may include any or allof these elements.

Comprehensive Community Fisheries Programs

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department hatchery truckpreparing to stock fish in a community fishery.

7


Information about the existing fish population isneeded in order to manage a community fishery.Information needs include: 1) species of fishpresent, 2) sizes of fish, and 3) condition of thefish. This information is required in order tomake sound decisions on the need for pondrenovation (removal of undesirable fish species),stocking, and/or regulations. Some insight canbe gained from past stocking history, but inmany community lakes this is either unknown orunreliable (often stocking records areincomplete).

Several methods are available for assessing fishpopulations. The most commonly used areseining, electrofishing, gill netting, and anglercatch records. A combination of methodsusually is best to obtain reliable, comprehensivedata. Seining and angler catch records can bedone with little specialized equipment, whileelectrofishing and gill netting require theassistance of trained fisheries personnel.

Fish stocking can be an important component ofaquatic resource management. Stocking is used

to establish fish populations in new or renovatedlakes and to supplement natural reproduction inheavily fished waters. A permit is required forany individual or group wishing to release fishinto a public body of water. Information aboutthe Texas Parks and Wildlife Department'sstocking policies and permitting procedures, andsources of fish, is included in the Appendices.

In general, stocking programs fall into one ofthree categories: Put-and-take fisheries, Put-grow-and-take fisheries, or Self-sustainingfisheries.

Fish Populations


Management crew conducting an electrofishingsurvey.

Seining for young-of-year fish.

Gill netting is an effective method of surveyingcatfish populations.

8


Put-and-take stocking is the most common management technique for small bodies of water withrelatively high fishing pressure. Due to rapid harvest by anglers, this type of fishery requiresrepeated stocking to provide a consistent opportunity to catch fish. As the name implies, fish ofharvestable size (above the minimum length limit) are stocked (put) into the water and caught(taken) in a relatively short period of time.

Channel catfish and rainbow trout are the species most often stocked for put-and-take fisheries,primarily because they can be raised to legal size more cheaply than most other species. Due to thecost of producing adult fish, however, this type of management is also the most expensive. It can beused periodically, as budgets permit, in addition to other forms of management.

Month Species Number of Fish Estimated Cost*

December Rainbow Trout 2,000 $1,500 - $3,000

January Rainbow Trout 2,000 $1,500 - $3,000

February Rainbow Trout 2,000 $1,500 - $3,000

March Channel Catfish 100 - 400 / acre $115 - $500 / acre

June Channel Catfish 100 - 400 / acre $115 - $500 / acre

September Channel Catfish 100 - 400 / acre $115 - $500 / acre

October Supplemental As indicated in Fisheries Management Plan.

* Based on 1996 dollars. Rainbow trout for stocking in public waters may be purchased from private sources through TPWD to takeadvantage of reduced delivery costs and contract prices.

An example of a high quality put-and-take stocking schedule: (basedon a 1-to-5 acre body of water)

Relying solely on stocking, especially put-and-take stocking, may reduce the effectiveness ofaquatic education programs and efforts to make anglers part of the management process. Peopleare less likely to support aquatic resource management if they are led to believe that good fishingsimply results from putting fish in the water.


Put-and-Take Fisheries

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Put-Grow-and-Take Fisheries


Put-grow-and-take stocking isan effective management toolfor small to medium size bodiesof water (1 - 25 acres) whichreceive moderate fishingpressure. Channel catfish arecommonly used for put-grow-and-take stockings. Under thistype of management strategy,fish smaller than the legal lengthlimit are put into the water andallowed to grow to the legal sizebefore they are taken by anglers.This type of fishery depends onangler compliance with size andbag limits to protect the fishuntil they reach a legal size.

In order to maintain a put-grow-and-take channel catfishpopulation where largemouthbass also are present, annualstockings of catfish at least 8inches long are required. Fishof this size are more capable ofescaping predation bylargemouth bass. If bass are notpresent, however, smallercatfish may be stocked. It maybe necessary to feed fish toensure proper growth andnutrition. Consult aprofessional fisheries biologistbefore undertaking a put-grow-and-take management program.

Self-SustainingFisheries

Self-sustaining fisheries arethose in which a body of wateris initially stocked withdesirable species and, throughnatural reproduction andprotective regulations, afishery is developed andmaintained withoutsupplemental stocking. Thistype of management is mosteffective in larger bodies ofwater (greater than 25 acres)with light to moderate fishingpressure and where anglersgenerally comply withregulations. Typically,largemouth bass, bluegill, andchannel catfish are stocked innew or renovated reservoirsand provide the primary sportfishing opportunities. Often,additional species are stockedto provide additional anglingopportunities.

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Shallow water vegetation such as pond weed orwater celery provide both hiding places forsmall fish and a food source for the smallinsects on which they feed. In much the sameway rip-rap, often used for shorelinestabilization, provides spaces between the rocksin which small fish hide. Algae that colonize onthe rocks provide food for grazing insectswhich, in turn, are eaten by juvenile fishes.

In some cases, community fisheries couldbenefit from the addition of fertilizers or fishfeeders to increase growth and survival of fish.Fish nutrition is usually a concern in clear,relatively unproductive ponds. The two maincorrective actions are fertilization andsupplemental feeding. A liquid fertilizer with aformulation of about 10-34-0 applied at onegallon per acre to maintain a plankton bloomduring spring and fall will greatly increaseprimary productivity. If the pH is too low(water is too acidic) as is frequently the case inEast Texas, lime (calcium carbonate), may beadded to the water to raise the pH into a moresuitable range (closer to neutral) therebymaking fertilization more effective. In additionto fertilization, a fish feeder mounted on or near

In both put-grow-and-take fisheries and self-sustaining fisheries, habitat managementtechniques can be used to enhance the fishery.

The use of artificial spawning structures andsubstrates may allow some species to spawnsuccessfully in bodies of water where theyotherwise might not reproduce. Largemouthbass and sunfish need firm substrate such assand or gravel upon which to build their nests.Catfish are even more particular in theirspawning needs, requiring some sort of cavity inwhich to spawn. In large reservoirs, cavitiesare often provided by fallen logs or holes in thebank excavated by aquatic animals. In smallimpoundments, cavities are most easily providedby PVC, clay, or concrete pipe blocked at oneend.

Fish shelters, such as rock piles, cedar trees, andbrush piles, can provide protection for juvenilefish and aid in survival during this critical lifestage. Juvenile largemouth bass and sunfishrequire both tight spaces in which to seekshelter from predation and small insects onwhich to feed. Two of the best sources forjuvenile fish habitat are shallow water vegetationand rip-rap (stone and gravel placed either on anatural slope or on an artificially graded shore).

Habitat Management Techniques


Stone rip-rap provides shoreline protection andfish habitat.

PVC pipe, blocked at one end, provides a suitablechannel catfish spawning structure.

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the proper procedures for implementing them.

The Texas Chapter of the American FisheriesSociety has published two other publicationsconcerning the management of smallimpoundments: Stocking and ManagementRecommendations for Texas Farm Ponds andAssessment and Corrective Management forFish Populations in Small Impoundments.These are available on request from mostTPWD and Texas A&M University Extensionoffices. Many universities or colleges withfisheries programs may be willing to assist withlocal community fisheries programs and theassessment of fish populations. Additionally,private consultants can provide fish samplingand management recommendations as well assupply fish for stocking.


a fishing pier will not only increase fishproduction and growth, it will also help attractfish to a particular area.

Low dissolved oxygen can be a problem for fishproduction. Dissolved oxygen levels can beaffected by a number of factors includingtemperature, biological processes such asphotosynthesis and decomposition, andchemicals. For example, warm water holds lessdissolved oxygen than cool water. For thisreason, dissolved oxygen can reach criticallylow levels during hot Texas summers. The bestway to increase dissolved oxygen in communitylakes is with an aerator.

These and other management techniques shouldbe discussed with a fisheries professional todetermine which techniques are appropriate and

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A community fishing lake with a fountain/aerator.


• ensuring adequate water quality whichwill support healthy fish populations.Community fishery sites are often atrisk of being contaminated fromindustrial or residential runoffcontaining pesticides, fertilizers, orheavy metals which may make fishunsafe for human consumption.

• ensuring safe, unobstructed access.Grass and brush should be kept clearof designated fishing areas. Parkingareas and walkways with universalaccess to all anglers are desirablefeatures at community fishing sites.Local American Disability Association(ADA) offices or disabled sportsmangroups can provide comments on thedesign of fishing facilities. Fishingpiers should accommodate wheelchairaccess and provide senior citizenswith a place to sit while fishing. Also,shade is a very important feature forcommunity fishing sites, especially inurban areas.

• constructing information boardscontaining fishing information,regulations, upcoming special events,and telephone numbers forinformation and assistance which willincrease angler participation.Additional information, such as howto help a drowning victim, proper careof live fish, and phone numbers toreport poaching and other illegalactivities, would also be useful.

• enhancing fisheries habitat to promoteself-sustaining fisheries. Spawningstructures, fish shelters, surfaceaerators, and fish feeders are alldesirable features. State and federalgrants may be available to help offsetthe cost of facility improvements.

Facilities Management

The controlling authority within the municipal government responsible for maintaining acommunity lake or river works in partnership with aquatic resource professionals toprovide recreational fishing opportunities for the citizens within that community.Whereas the fisheries professional may make fisheries management recommendations, itis the controlling authority's responsibility to manage the fishing facility. Often, however,due to limited funds and manpower, facility improvements take a low priority. Thissituation presents numerous opportunities for citizen involvement. The assistance ofcommunity youth in implementing a proven management program is beneficial to theyouth, the controlling authority, and to the resource.

Citizen groups wishing to help controlling authorities enhance their community fisheriesmay consider the following:


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Aquatic Education ProgramsEntire curriculums have been built around recreational fishing and responsible use of aquaticenvironments. Several programs are described below. While each program has unique advantages,there are also restrictions which limit their applicability in some situations. Contact the sponsoringorganizations listed in Appendix D for additional information about program requirements andavailability.

Aquatic WILDAquatic WILD (Wildlife In Learning Design)curriculum, similar to Project WILD, is designedeither to stand alone or be used as a supplementto a science curriculum or any other schoolsubject matter. This nationally recognizedcurriculum details activities which teachconcepts of aquatic conservation and promoteresponsible human actions. Students enjoyhands-on activities, either in a classroom settingor at the water's edge. Although the curriculumis adaptable to a wide range of audiences, it isparticularly well suited for elementary schoolage children. Teachers or volunteer instructorsmust receive training through TPWD to receivefree materials.

Get Hooked On Fishing - Not On DrugsThis national, award-winning program of theFuture Fisherman Foundation promotes fishingas a safe, healthy alternative to drug use and as ameans of developing self-esteem and respect forothers. This curriculum has been approved bythe Texas Education Agency and qualifies for"Drug Free School" funding. The curriculum isdesigned to work in conjunction with other drugprevention programs and is one of the only non-lecture oriented programs available to schools.The Get Hooked On Fishing - Not On Drugsprogram requires adoption by the local schooldistrict and certification for all teachersinvolved. Upon completion of instructortraining, curriculum guides and course materialsare provided free of charge for primary, upperelementary, middle school, and senior highstudents.


Adopt-A-BeachSponsored by the Texas General Land Office,this program is designed to help clean-up Texasbeaches and assist in surveying the amount andtype of trash collected. Twice each year, in Apriland September, a coastwide cleanup isorganized with check-in points from Beaumontto Brownsville. Information about the trashcollected is submitted to the Center for MarineConservation, and used to help identify andeliminate the source.

Adopt-A-WetlandThe Adopt-A-Wetland program is a spin-off ofAquatic WILD and provides an opportunity forschools and other groups to put their concerninto action by monitoring and caring for localwetlands. This program is coordinated by TexasA&M University in Corpus Christi and targetedfor schools and youth groups wishing to adopt alocal wetland. Students monitor and recordwater quality, observe wetland use by plants andanimals, and use Aquatic WILD activities tolearn wetland principles. In order to participatein the program, volunteers are required tocomplete a two-day training workshop whichincludes classroom instruction and field training.Upon completion of the initial training,instructors may choose the extent to which theybecome involved in the program.

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KIDFISHA program of the Texas Parks and WildlifeDepartment and the Parks and WildlifeFoundation of Texas through the ShareLunkerFoundation, KIDFISH is designed to introduceyoungsters to the outdoors and the spirit offishing. KIDFISH events offer kids and theirfamilies a hands-on fishing experience includinga brief educational seminar focusing onconservation, aquatic biology, and proper use offishing equipment. Legal-sized fish are usuallystocked prior to KIDFISH events. Fishingtackle and equipment are provided for useduring events and awards are given to eachparticipant. KIDFISH events have a fund-raising element requiring corporate sponsorshipand volunteer support. Proceeds from fund-raising events are used to cover expenses,including the cost of fish and materials. Anyexcess monies go into a fund to supportadditional fish stocking and community fisheryfacility improvements.

Lake and River Clean-up ProgramThe goals of the Lake and River Clean-upProgram are to help improve the environment,to educate people about the dangers ofpollution, and involve citizens in monitoringwater quality. Each cleanup project iscoordinated by a community based steeringcommittee with the assistance of the TexasNatural Resource Conservation Commission(TNRCC) Lake and River Clean-up Program.The TNRCC can assist in organizing an annualcleanup event, although the cleanup isconducted solely by volunteers from localschools, scout groups, civic organizations,employees from local businesses, and areagovernmental entities. The Lake and RiverCleanup Program can currently provide itemssuch as registration forms, promotional posters,liability waivers, and press releases.

Pathway-to-FishingThe Pathway-to-Fishing program, designed foruse during a fishing event, provides posters andan adaptable script which even a noviceinstructor can use to present a fun, informativelesson. Pathway events are often held inconjunction with fishing clinics, although theycan be held independently. Participants learnand practice the basics of fishing through aseries of on-site learning stations in this briefcourse. Posters, scripts, and hands-on materialsguide students through fish identification, knottying, casting, and fishing techniques. Materialsmay be purchased from the U.S. GovernmentPrinting Office or borrowed from some U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service or TPWD field offices.

Texas Angler Education ProgramThe nationally recognized Angler EducationProgram, sponsored by the Texas Parks andWildlife Department and funded partially fromfederal sport fish restoration excise taxes,provides instruction in angling techniques, typesof fishing equipment, fish identification, anglerethics, and proper care of aquatic habitats. TheAngler Education Instructor's guide containsteaching modules that can stand alone or beused as a supplement to a science curriculum.Designed for youth ages 12 – 16, programmaterials are well-suited for use in schools,summer camps, fishing clubs, scoutingorganizations, and community educationcenters. Certification and shoulder patches areawarded upon successful completion of theminimum six-hour course. Volunteerinstructors must be certified through the TexasParks and Wildlife Department in order toreceive free materials.


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Texas WatchSponsored by the TNRCC, Texas Watch isdesigned to help concerned citizens assessand monitor water quality. This volunteerprogram helps produce environmentalinformation that agencies, waste generators,and the public need to make sound decisions.Participants assess environmental indicatorssuch as dissolved oxygen, air and watertemperature, secchi disk readings (waterclarity), and salinity or conductivity.Additional training is available for those whowish to monitor fecal coliform and relatedcontaminants. Any group wishing toparticipate must receive training throughTNRCC and commit to monitoring once amonth for two years.


Aquatic Education Programs (cont.)

Young citizens assess and monitor water quality.

16


Fishing DerbiesA fishing derby is often organized to publicize acommunity fisheries program, announce a fishstocking, or just promote participation inrecreational fishing. A derby can be acompetitive event lasting one day or longer, oras the culmination of the school year duringnational fishing week in June. It may concludewith an awards ceremony or some other form ofrecognition for the participants and sponsors.Many people enjoy the competition, whileothers prefer to de-emphasize the role of prizesand simply enjoy the aquatic environment.

Fishing ClinicsFishing clinics are organized fishing eventswhich introduce participants to recreationalangling and provide an opportunity forenvironmental education. KIDFISH is anexample of a highly organized recreationalfishing event which could also be called a"clinic". Not all clinics are big events, however.Perhaps some of the most effective clinicsinvolve small groups and informal instruction.Although fishing clinics may use a variety offormats, many include transportation to the site,provision of fishing tackle and bait, and fishinginstruction.

Recreational Fishing EventsOrganized recreational fishing events are popular means of introducing young people to the fun andchallenge of fishing. The types of events are as diverse as their participants, involving people fromall walks of life. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, two common types of eventsare fishing derbies and fishing clinics. Regardless of the type of event, they all have two things incommon: they rely on healthy aquatic resources and a sponsoring organization. When preparingfor a fishing event in a natural setting, general precautions should be taken to avoid the introductionof undesirable species, parasites, or pathogens. Consult a professional fisheries biologist foradditional information.


The next chapter presents detailed information about conducting fishing clinics.

17


Conducting a Fishing Clinic

No two fishing clinicswill ever be the same,

however, most include aneducational component andan angling experience. Theeducational component willvary depending on the typeof program used (such asKIDFISH or Pathway-to-Fishing). The anglingexperience itself isdependent upon such thingsas audience, weather, fishinglocation, type of fish sought,and the personalities ofthose involved. Althoughmost clinics are designed fora young audience, they caneasily be adapted for peopleof all ages and levels ofability.

While we would not wish tostandardize the way fishingclinics are conducted, wewould like to offer thefollowing guidelines forcoordinating a recreationalfishing event. This is not theonly way to conduct anevent, but it is one waywhich has proven to beeffective.

Select the body of water, get permission from thecontrolling authority, and set a date as soon as you makethe decision to hold a recreational fishing event. Check tomake sure there are no other major events going on at thesame time or in the same place. Try to plan at least two tothree months in advance. In promotional materials, be sureto indicate any costs to participants and encourage peopleto bring their own tackle and equipment, if possible.

In planning the fishing event, be sure to consider the finaldisposition of the fish. What will the kids do with the fishonce they catch them? If they choose to release their catch,instruct them in the proper techniques for handling andreleasing live fish. If the fish are going to be kept, providestringers, baskets, plastic bags, or some means by whichthe fish will arrive at their final destination in a fresh, ediblecondition. If possible, provide fish-cleaning services,zippable plastic bags, and ice. When kids learn that fish arefun to catch AND good to eat, they are much more likelyto go fishing again.

Additional site considerations as the time of the event getscloser include checking for fire ants, planning for childsafety, and ensuring clearly marked parking areas areavailable. An area should be designated for first aid.Participants need to have sunscreen, insect repellent,restroom facilities, and plenty of drinking water.Organizers should have additional supplies andcontingency plans in the event of an emergency.

Preparing for an Event

The following are the essential roles and the minimum number of people recommendedfor a fishing clinic with up to 100 participants. In this example, a minimum of 15 - 25dedicated volunteers are required to conduct the event.

18



Event CoordinationOne person needs to be recognized as being INCHARGE. This person will organize the flow ofactivities, speak to the group during the event, setthe ground rules, and present awards.

Casting InstructionAt least two to four people are needed togive casting lessons and assist participants.Not everyone will need casting practice,but some will enjoy casting at a target asmuch or more than fishing.

Registration (Optional)If registration is necessary to the successof the event, plan on having up to fivepeople available at the registration table.Although registration is not alwaysnecessary, it is essential if participantsneed to sign a waiver of liability,contribute money, or register to winprizes.

Aquatic EducationDuring the educational portion of the event, atleast two people per station need to lead thediscussion. It is important to choose people whocan relate to kids and who know something aboutthe subject matter. In the example on page 21,two education teams are indicated.

19


Tackle OrganizationAt least two weeks before the event, organizersneed to get together for a planning meeting.Take advantage of this opportunity to organizethe tackle. Check the rods and reels, tightenscrews, untangle lines, replace line (ifnecessary), and attach terminal tackle (weightsand swivels). Don't attach hooks and leadersuntil you're ready to fish.

As a general rule, plan on having 50% moretackle on hand than you expect to need. Inother words, if you expect to have 50 peoplefishing at one time, be sure to have at least 75rods and reels available.


Handing Out RodsAt least two people are needed to hand out rodsand reels in an orderly manner. A third personshould be available to attach hooks and leaders.Be sure to make it clear that the rods need to bereturned at a certain time. These three peopleneed to be available again at that time to removethe hooks and put everything away.

Measuring Station (Optional)If desired, two people should be assigned tomeasure and/or weigh fish. If prizes are to beawarded based on the size of fish caught, anaccurate record keeping system is required. A"scoreboard" should be available which displaysthe current leaders in each category.

20



Fishing AssistanceAt least one adult (or responsible teen) isneeded for every three to five kids fishing.If 100 kids are expected to be fishing at thesame time, anywhere from 20 to 35 adultsneed to be available to bait hooks, untanglelines, and resolve conflicts. Assign fouradults to recruit volunteers and coordinatetheir efforts during the event. Parents andother adults who attend the event should beencouraged to assist whenever possible.

Fish Cleaning (Optional)At least two people should be available toclean fish, if you decide to include thisservice in your event. One person needs toremain "clean" enough to put the fish inzippable plastic bags with ice. Designate anarea with running water where people canbring their fish and watch them beingcleaned from a safe distance. It isrecommended that the cleaning area beblocked off to keep participants across thetable and away from any sharp instruments.If everyone is expected to show up at thefish cleaning table at the same time, morethan two people will be needed.

Sample layout for a fishing clinic with up to 100 participants.

Registration5 People

AwardsPresentation

EducationTeam #12 People

Casting Area4 People

Fish CleaningStation

2 People

Event Coordinator1 Person

Tackle & Equipment3 People

Measuring Station1-2 People

Pond

Fishing AssistanceCoordinators

EducationTeam #22 People

First AidStation

21


Safety Considerations

q Use needle nose pliers toflatten barbs on hooks orpurchase barbless hooks.

q Have throwable personalflotation devices availableat all times.

q Have a first aid kit and alicensed EMT on hand incase of emergency.

q Be prepared for weather-related emergencies orinconveniences. If it isvery hot or cold, keep theclinic short. Providedrinks and shaded areasduring the warmer months.Never continue fishingduring an electrical storm.

q Have adequate restroomfacilities and trash cansavailable.

Event Materials Checklist

Fishing Gearq Rods and reels or cane polesq Baitq Terminal Tackle: Hooks, Weights, Swivels, etc.q Fishing Line

Awardsq Prizes (Each participant should win something or don't

give prizes.)q Trophiesq Ribbonsq T-shirts

Event Set-Upq Ropeq Tapeq Notepads & Pencilsq Banners & Streamersq Posters & Markersq Educational Materials

Eventq Stocked Fish (if necessary)q Registration Materialsq Permits & Release Forms (if necessary)q First Aid & Securityq Drinks, Cups, & Iceq Tables, Chairs, Canopiesq Sound System (Optional)q Goody Bagsq Food (if the event runs through an eating period)


22


The Take-Home MessageTake full advantage of the opportunity to communicate a conservation message during the event. Aneffective way of reinforcing that message is with a "goody bag". The goody bag provides anopportunity for participants to "take the message home" with them after the event is over. Bags areavailable from fishing tackle manufacturers, chambers of commerce, the General Land Office, or anynumber of potential sponsors.

The following items are suggested for inclusion in goody bags:

q Ribbons or certificates of participation;q Coupons from sponsors or local merchants;q Kids Fishing Booklets from tackle

manufacturers, the Future FishermanFoundation, or Natural ResourceConservation Organizations;

q State Fishing Regulations Guide;q Appropriate Bumper Stickers;q Stringer;q Tackle samples;q Ethical Angler Cards, fish stickers, etc.;q Sunscreen Sample;q Tape Measure.

Within reason, allow sponsors and contributorsto display their signs and advertisements inpromotional materials and during the event.


23


Additional Considerationsq Have plenty of bait and tackle appropriate

for the fish sought. Nightcrawlers(earthworms), meal worms, and crickets arealmost always effective; commerciallyprepared dough baits also work well forsome species. Day-old shrimp, available insome grocery stores, is an inexpensive andeffective alternative. Be sure to store baitproperly before and during the event.

q Encourage everyone associated with theevent to have a valid fishing license (ifrequired).

q Invite a Game Warden to be present duringthe event to explain fishing regulations andpromote angling ethics.

q Match the hook size to the species of fishsought. The larger the number, the smallerthe size of the hook. Rainbow trout andsunfish may be caught on long shanked,# 10 to # 6 hooks. For crappie, bass, orcatfish, use hook sizes ranging from # 8to # 1.

q Similarly, use appropriate test line. Heavyline may be visible to fish, thereby reducingone's chances of being successful. Light linemay result in losing larger fish. For troutand sunfish, 4-to-6 pound test line ispreferred. If your rod is already rigged witha heavier line, attach a 6-to-18 inch leaderwith the appropriate test line. For largerbass or catfish, 8, 10, and up to 12 poundtest lines are recommended.

q Inform participants of the type of bait, line,and tackle that will be used. Encouragethose who are able to bring their own gear.


24


The fishing clinic should be scheduled to last about two to four hours. During this period of time,each participant should have a rod and reel available, equipped with the appropriate bait and tackle,and be instructed in basic fishing techniques. The objectives are simply to involve the participantsin fishing and to HAVE FUN. If kids are more interested in turtles and frogs than fish, then allowthem to pursue their interests. It is important, however, that those who choose to fish have arealistic opportunity to catch something.

The following is a recommended schedule for conducting a fishing event:


Coordinating the Event

q Check-in / Registration - Develop aschedule of events and try to stick to it. Tryto begin on time, but be prepared to dealwith late arrivals.

q Divide participants into manageable groups.This can be done in any number of ways. Ifyou have a large crowd, perhaps take theportion who register within a five-minuteperiod.

q Present the educational portion of the eventas soon as the groups are organized. Ifparticipants arrive at irregular intervals, youmay wish to present the educational portionas often as a group is available.

q Avoid delays and provide refreshments, ifpossible. If participants are in view of thewater, attention spans are usually short.

q Allow those who want to practice casting tobegin once they've completed theeducational portion of the program.

q Begin handing out rods, reels, and tackle tothose who are ready to fish. Manyparticipants will have their own equipment,but may need appropriate bait, line, andtackle.

q For speed and convenience during the event,rods should be prepared with weights andsnap swivels. When rods are distributed,simply attach prepared hooks with leaders. Ifsnelled hooks are not available, tie hooks andleaders before the day of the event.

q Distribute bait among fishing assistants at thewater's edge. Fishing assistants should haveneedle-nose pliers, clippers, hook removers,and additional tackle available as well.

q If fish are to be weighed, measured, orcleaned during the event, direct participantsto the appropriate areas as soon as they catcha fish. Try to avoid having everyonecrowding around at the same time.

q Distribute goody bags at the end of the eventas an incentive to return borrowedequipment, or as a reward during the closingceremony.

q Encourage participants to assist with clean-up activities.

25


Appendix–A

Abilene Fisheries Office5325 N. 3rd St.Abilene, TX 79603(915) 692-0921

Bryan Fisheries Office1004 E. 26th St.Bryan, TX 77803(409) 822-5067

Canyon Fisheries OfficeP. O. Box 835Canyon, TX 79015(806) 655-4341

Denison Fisheries OfficeRt. 4, Box 157Denison, TX 75020(903) 786-2389

Dundee Fish HatcheryRoute 1,Electra, TX 76360(940) 586-1576

Ft. Worth Fisheries Office6200 Hatchery Rd.Ft. Worth, TX 76114(817) 732-0761

HOH Research StationHCR-7, Box 62Ingram, TX 78025(830) 866-3356

Jasper Aquatic HabitatStationRt. 7, Box 11-2Jasper, TX 75951(409) 384-9965

Jasper Fish HatcheryRt. 2, Box 535Jasper, TX 75951(409) 384-2221

Jasper Fisheries OfficeRt. 2, Box 535Jasper, TX 75951(409) 384-9572

Marshall Fisheries Office3802 East End Blvd. S.Marshall, TX 75670(903) 938-1007

Mathis Fisheries OfficeP. O. Box 116Mathis, TX 78368(512) 547-9712

Possum Kingdom FishHatcheryHC 51, Box 13,Graford, TX 76449(817) 779-2301

San Angelo Fisheries Office4002 N. ChadbourneSan Angelo, TX 79603(915) 655-9413

San Angelo Hatchery3407 S. ChadbourneSan Angelo, TX 76904(915) 651-4949

San Antonio Fisheries Office134 BraniffSan Antonio, TX 78216(210) 348-6355

San Marcos Fisheries Office505 Staples RoadSan Marcos, TX 78666(512) 353-0072

San Marcos, AE Wood FishHatchery507 Staples RoadSan Marcos, TX 78666(512) 353-0572

Texas Freshwater FisheriesCenter5550 Flat Creek Road,Athens, TX 75751(903) 676-2277

Tyler Fisheries Office #12122 Old Henderson RdTyler, TX 75701(903) 593-5077

Tyler Fisheries Office #2Rt. 10, Box 1043Tyler, TX 75707(903) 566-2161

Tyler Fish Hatchery11045 Spur 164Tyler, TX 75709(903) 592-7570

Waco Fisheries Office8680 #4 LaVillageWaco, TX 76705(254) 666-5190

Wichita Falls Fisheries Office409 ChesterWichita Falls, TX 76301(940) 766-2383

Texas Parks and Wildlife DepartmentField Offices

26


Appendix–B

Stocking and Permitting PoliciesTexas Parks and Wildlife Department

Fish stocking is an integral part ofcommunity fisheries programs. Whether in

preparation for a fishing clinic or as part of apond management plan, fish stocking is oftennecessary to provide adequate numbers of fishto urban anglers. Unfortunately, publicly fundedhatcheries cannot produce enough fish for everyfishing clinic and community fishery within thestate. However, private fish stockings canprovide a valuable supplement to existing fishpopulations.

Before any organization can stock fish in publicwater they must apply for and receive a Permitto Stock Public Water from the Texas Parksand Wildlife Department. Chapter 66, Section66.015 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Coderequires any individual or organization to securea permit from the department before stockingfish, shellfish or aquatic plants into public water.Public water is defined as "Bays, estuaries, andwater of the Gulf of Mexico under thejurisdiction of the State, and the rivers, streams,creeks, bayous, reservoirs, lakes, and portionsof those waters where public access is availablewithout discrimination [Texas Parks andWildlife Code, 51.001(2)]. Applications for apermit can be obtained from local TPWD fieldoffices or from the Austin headquarters (1-800-792-1112).

The following list outlines some of the rulespertaining to the application and stockingprocess. Further rules, policies, and definitionscan be found in the Texas Parks and WildlifeDepartment Proclamations.

• To be considered, the application must bereceived by the department at least thirtydays before the proposed stocking.

• A person holding a permit issued under thissection shall notify the person designated onthe permit at least three days prior to theactual placing of fish, shellfish, or aquaticplants into public waters.

• A person holding a permit shall placeauthorized fish, shellfish, or aquatic plants inpublic waters only in the presence of adesignated employee of the department inorder to assure that terms of the permit aremet and to verify and record theintroduction.

• A permit issued under this section is validfor sixty days from the date of issuance oruntil the permitted introduction has beencompleted, whichever comes first.

• A permit is not required to introduce nativenongame fish into public water.

27


Appendix–C

Educational Materials

Educational materials for fishing and aquatic activities are numerous and varied. Numerous publicand private organizations provide very good educational materials free or for nominal fees. Thefollowing is a brief list of organizations which provide materials and a brief description of theprograms and costs. All prices and fees listed are subject to change.

Organization Materials Cost

Angler’s for Clean Water Inc.P.O. Box 17900Mongomery, AL 36141-0900(334) 272-9530Attn: Bruce Sharp

“Fishing and OurEnvironment–Fun & Facts”

A youth activity bookletemphasizing fishing and

environmental awareness.

Free depending on supply.

Bass Pro ShopsPublic Relations1935 S. CampbellSpringfield, MO 65898(417) 832-1999(417) 887-1915

“Free the Fighter”Catch and release decals.

Free.

Center for Marine ConservationOrder Dept.1725 Desales St., NWSuite 600Washington, D.C. 20036(202) 429-5609

Publications, audio/visualmaterials, literature dealing with

marine conservation.

Prices vary – some are free.

Educational DevelopmentSpecialists5505 E. Carson St.Suite 250Lakewood, CA 90713-3039(310) 420-6814

“Major Rivers”The Texas water education

program designed to teach 4thgrade students about the

importance of water in Texas.

$50.00.

Environmental Concern Inc.P.O. Box PSt. Michaels, MD 21663

Field guides, books, curriculumguides, and movies, dealing withwetlands and aquatic education.

Prices vary.

4–H Distribution CenterCooperative Extension Unit7 Research ParkCornell University,Ithaca, NY 14850(607) 255-2298

4–H sport fishing and aquaticresources education program

materials.

Call for information.

28


Organization Materials CostDepartment of NaturalResourcesCornell University121 Fernow HallIthaca, NY 14853(607) 255-2834Attn: Karen Eddlestein

Various program materials. Call for information.

Hooked on Fishing InternationalP.O. Box 691200Tulsa, OK 74169-1200

Kids and Seniors All-AmericanFishing Derby Kits.

Shipping and handling only.

In–FishermanP.O. Box 999Brainerd, MN 56401-0999(218) 829-1648Attn: Dan Sura

“Pathway to Fishing”A one-hour program withmaterials designed to teach

inexperienced children aboutfishing, ethics, and ecology.

One set free.

J. L. Pachner, Ltd.13 Via Di NolaLaguna Niguel, CA 92677

“Products to Assist theDisabled Sportsman”

A specialty catalog containingproducts for disabled sportsmen.

Free.

Pathway-to-FishingU.S. Government PrintingOfficeSuperintendent of DocumentsWashington, D.C. 20402(202) 783-3238 voice(202) 512-2164 fax

Pathway-to-Fishing KitsStock #024-010-00697-8Reference #5W3155/idr.

Approximately $61.00 each.

Appendix–C

Educational Materials (cont.)

29


Organization Materials CostFuture Fisherman Foundation1033 N. Fairfax St.Suite 200Alexandria, VA 22314

“Aquatic ResourcesEducational Curriculum”

A 28-lesson instructor manual.

$20.00.

To receive their newsletter call(703) 519-9691

To place orders call(703) 364-1222

“Sport Fishing and AquaticResources Handbook”

A 14-lesson student manualtargeting junior high level

students.

$3.50.

“Fishing Fun for Kids”A cartoon booklet which

introduces children to fishing.

$0.35 each.

“Get Hooked on Fishing Not onDrugs”

Program and teacher’s guide.School program materials which

qualify as a federal anti-drugprogram.

Call for price.

Numerous decals, posters,videos, etc. which deal with

youth fishing.

Prices vary.

Missouri Department ofConservationP.O. Box 180Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180(573) 751-4115 ext. 295Attn: Jim H. Wilson

“ Missouri Aquatic ResourceEducation Program”

Workbooks, posters, andmaterials dealing with Missouri’s

aquatic resources.

Call for information.

Appendix–C


30


Organization Materials CostNational Wildlife Federation8925 Leesburg PikeVienna, VA 22180(703) 790-4000

Various environmentaleducation materials

Prices vary

National Fishing Week2944 Patrick Henry Dr.Suite 15Falls Church, VA 22044

“National Fishing Week ActionManual”

A guide to clinics and activitiesto go along with National

Fishing Week. Includes both onand off water activities.

$3.00

Texas Parks & WildlifeDepartment4200 Smith School Rd.Austin, TX 78744Attn: Katherine Hampton orChris LenaKatherine Hampton: (800) 792-1112, press 6, then press 5Chris Lena: (512) 389-4369

“Project Wild and AquaticWild Programs”

A nationwide environmentaleducation program for natural

resource educators.

Certification classes andworkbooks are free.

Texas Water DevelopmentBoardP.O. Box 13231Capitol StationAustin, TX 78711-3231

“The Texas Water EducationNetwork Directory”

A collection of water educationmaterials for use in public

schools.

Free

Other water conservationliterature and reference

materials.

Free

Zebco Corp.P.O. Box 270Tulsa, OK 74101(918) 836-5581Attn: Catherine Hendrix

Instructional posters, decals,and brochures

Free

Appendix–C


31


Appendix–D

Fishing Conservation and Education Program Contacts

Adopt-A-Beach ProgramTexas General Land Office1700 N. Congress Ave.Austin, Texas 78701800-85-BEACH (852-3224)

Adopt-A-Wetland ProgramCenter for Coastal StudiesTexas A&M University-Corpus Christi6300 Ocean DriveCorpus Christi, Texas 78412(512) 980-3221

Aquatic WILD(Wildlife In Learning Design)Texas Parks and Wildlife Department4200 Smith School RoadAustin, Texas 78744(512) 328-6035

Get Hooked On Fishing - Not On DrugsTexas Coordinator7551 Callaghan, Suite 275San Antonio, TX 78229-2861(210) 340-4100

Hooked-on-Fishing InternationalBox 249Disney, Oklahoma 74340(918) 782-4313

KIDFISH Program408 East Corsicana, Suite BAthens, Texas 75751(903) 677-4721

Lake and River Cleanup ProgramTexas Natural Resource ConservationCommissionP.O. Box 13087, MC 114Austin, Texas 78711-3087(512) 239-4744

Pathway to FishingU.S. Government Printing OfficeSuperintendent of DocumentsWashington, D.C., 20402(202) 783-3238

Project WET (Water Education Teams)Texas Natural Resource ConservationCommissionP.O. Box 13087Austin, Texas 78711-3087(512) 239-0012

Texas Agricultural Extension Service (TAEX)4-H Sportfishing ProgramsCounty Offices listed under State GovernmentTexas A&M University contact:(409) 845-1214

Texas Angler / Boater / Hunter EducationTexas Parks and Wildlife Department4200 Smith School RoadAustin, Texas 78744(512) 389-4999

Texas WatchTexas Natural Resource ConservationCommissionP.O. Box 13087Austin, Texas 78711-3087(512) 239-4741

32


Appendix–E

The following is a list of universities that provide literature and information useful in conductingaquatic education activities.

Southwest Texas State UniversityEdwards Aquifer Research & Data CenterEARDC Freeman Bldg., Rm 248San Marcos, TX 78666(512) 245-2329

Texas A&M UniversityTexas Agricultural Extension Service303 Agricultural Engineering Dept.College Station, TX 77843(409) 845-7451 / 7471

University of TexasMarine Science Institute at Port AransasMarine Education ServicesPort Aransas, TX 78373-1267(512) 749-6729

The Center offers Aquatic Study Field Days andSummer Camp programs and educationalworkshops for teachers.

The TAES provides technical information onwater quality and conservation, fisheries, andother agricultural topics. They also provide 4-Hlessons and information for educators.

The MSI offers a visiting class MarineEducation Program for high school students andalso teacher workshops dealing with marine andcoastal science topics for elementary andsecondary teachers.

University Contacts

Be sure to contact local colleges or universities in your area about new or on-going programs.

33


Appendix–F

Fisheries Extension SpecialistsTexas A & M University

Brazoria CountyRichard E. TillmanCounty Extension Agent - Marine953 CommercialAransas Pass, TX 78336

College StationDr. James T. DavisFisheries Specialist102 Nagle HallTexas A & M UniversityCollege Station, TX 77843-2258(409) 845-7473

Dr. Tom LintonFisheries Specialist210 Nagle HallTexas A & M UniversityCollege Station, TX 77843-2258(409) 845-5704

Dr. Sterling K. JohnsonFish Disease Specialist102 Nagle HallTexas A & M UniversityCollege Station, TX 77843-2258(409) 845-7471

Corpus ChristiDr. Russell J. MigetMarine FisheriesTexas A&M Corpus Christi6300 Ocean Drive , Seabreeze Hall # 2Corpus Christi, TX 78412(512) 994-8426

Galveston

Julie K. MasseyCounty Extension Agent - MarineDistrict 9, Galveston County5115 Highway 3Dickinson, TX 77539(281) 534-3413

Gary GrahamMarine Fisheries SpecialistSea Grant ProgramP. O. Box 1675Galveston, TX 77553-1675(409) 762-9800

OvertonDr. Billy J. HigginbothamWildlife & Fisheries SpecialistP.O. Box 38Overton, TX 75684(903) 834-6191

Matagorda CountyWilliam R. YoungerCounty Extension Agent - Marine4th Floor, 2200 7th St.Bay City, TX 77414(409) 245-4100

34


Appendix–G

Sources of Rainbow Trout

Bear Creek Springs TroutFarmL.J. DeVitoRt. 5, Box 327Harrison, AR 72601(501) 741-6031

Blue Springs Trout FarmRt. 2, Box 105Yellville, AR 72687(501) 449-6054

Cannibal Canyon Trout RanchDwight BabcockBox 43Marvel, CO 81329(303) 588-2276

Cline Trout FarmsKen Cline5555 Valmont Rd.Boulder, CO 80301(303) 442-2817

Crystal Lake FisheriesDwight EmersonRt. 1, Box 248Ava, MO 65608(417) 683-2301

Della Elder209 6th Ave.Longmont, CO 80501(303) 776-8274

Dogpatch Trout FarmErnest RaneyP.O. Box 20Dogpatch, AR 72648(501) 743-1289

Fisherman's Dude RanchJohn RedingHC 88, Box 8117Steelville, MO 65565(314) 743-6284

Happy Hollow Trout FarmGary O'DellRt. 1, Box 140AGower, MO 64454(816)-539-3180

Kelly SpringsJim GoochRt. 2, Box 235Goodman, MO 64843(417) 364-8748

Kraft's Trout FarmJack KraftRR 2, Box 152Neosho, MO 64850(417) 776-2604

Lake Keith FisheryBarron Collier326 N. WashingtonFayetteville, AR 72701(501) 521-1766

The following list of Rainbow Trout suppliers was provided to the Texas Chapter of AFS by theTexas Aquaculture Association. This is not a complete list of all the fish producers and inclusionhere should not be perceived as an endorsement. For additional information on sources ofRainbow Trout, Channel Catfish, or other fish species, contact either:

TheTexas Aquaculture Association

P. O. Box 13285Capital Station

Austin, TX 78711(512) 474-4600

Family Fish FarmersP. O. Box 534

Henderson, TX 75653OR

35


McMillan, Miles and MargaretP.O. Box 394Hotchkiss, CO 81419(303) 872-3421

Mountain Springs Trout ParkJoyce BreedloveRt. 2, Box 528Highlandville, MO 65669(417) 587-3400

Osage Spring Farms, Inc.Rt. 8, Box 591Rogers, AR 72756(501) 663-2301

Ozark Trout FarmJohn KendrickP.O. Box 480Johnson, AR 72741(501) 756-3024

Parker Trout FarmJohnny ParkerP.O. Box 1261Piñon, NM 88344(505) 687-3493

Quality Fisheries Managementand Mt. Massive LakesGreg and Peggy BruniskP.O. Box 27Leadville, CO 80461(719) 486-1075

Queen of the RiverMike Mitchell13810 N. 115thLongmont, CO 80501(800) 422-2514

Rainbow Springs Trout RanchNorm and Anne Putnam1157 Co. Rd. 214Durango, CO 81301(303) 247-2939

Rainbow Trout RanchLile AmyxP. O. Box 100Rockbridge, MO 65741(417) 679-3619

Rangeview Trout RanchJerry Wintz14473 Hwy 285Saguache, CO 81149(719) 655-2237

Shady Lakes HatcheryJames Phillips11033 Hwy 85 N.W.Albuquerque, NM 87106(505) 898-2568

Shady Valley LakesGene Lambrich4536 Highway 21Imperial, MO 63052(314) 296-7189

Silver Springs Trout FarmBob Corey13221 Marine Rd.Montrose, CO 81401(303) 249-5888

Stroh's Fishing RanchJim and Eileen Stroh51 Black Canyon Rd.Crawford, CO 81415(303) 921-3111

Triple J RanchDomingo Baitlon9220 C.R. 165Salida, CO 81201(719) 539-3094

Troutdale Ranch, Inc.Terry GatesBox 68Gravois Mills, MO 65037(314) 373-6100

Twin Buttes Trout RanchSteve and Marge Titus617 Co. Rd. 207Durango, CO 81301(303) 259-0479

Appendix–G

Sources of Rainbow Trout (cont.)

36


Appendix–H

Sources of Fishing Equipment

There are more fishing tackle suppliers than can be listed here. However, the following is a list ofsome that provide equipment and promotional items free or for nominal fees. Groups ororganizations that are planning fishing events are encouraged to contact these companies as wellas local tackle, sporting goods and hardware vendors for donations and equipment.

ORGANIZATION MATERIALS COST

A Du Pont CompanyStren Fishing Lines1007 Market St.Wilmington, DE 19898

Fishing line. Free depending on supply.

Bass Pro Shops1935 S. CampbellSpringfield, MO 658981-800-227-7776Attn: Public Relations

Tackle samples. Send letter of explanation.

Berkley, Inc.One Berkley Dr.Spirit Lake, IA 51360(712) 336-1520 ext. 419Attn: Barry Day

Tackle samples. Free depending on supply.

Mepps / SheldonDept. 159626 Center St.Antigo, WI 54409-2496(715) 623-2382Attn: Jim Martinsen

Fishing lures, fish speciesbrochures.

$ 0.50 for lure seconds. Sendletter of explanation.

37


Appendix–H

ORGANIZATION MATERIALS COST

Shakespeare, K2 Inc.3801 Westmore Dr.Columbia, SC 29223(803) 754-7000Attn: Mark Davis

Tackle. Contact for information.

Tae Tex Enterprise Co.10943 Day Rd.Houston, TX 77043(713) 468-7800Attn: Anny Leeor Johnny Figueroa

10' unrigged cane poles,jointed or un-jointed.

Call for prices. Usually$2 - $3 each.

Zebco CorporationP. O. Box 270Tulsa, OK 74101(918) 836-5581Attn: Catherine Hendrix

Rods and reels. $ 2.75 rod / reel rental.

$ 7.75 rod / reel purchase.

For information about developing a Fishing Tackle Loaner Program through local libraries orParks and Recreation Departments, contact:

Steve GottshallSport Fish Promotion Council1033 N. Fairfax St., Suite 200

Alexandria, VA 22314(703) 684-5865

Sources of Fishing Equipment (cont.)

38


Appendix–I

Texas River Authorities

Angelina & Neches RiverP.O. Box 387Lufkin, TX 75902(409) 632-7795

Brazos RiverP.O. Box 7555Waco, TX 76714(254) 776-1441

Canadian River MunicipalWaterP.O. Box 99Sanford, TX 79078(806) 865-3325

Central Colorado RiverP.O. Box 964Coleman, TX 76834(915) 636-4373

Colorado River MunicipalWaterP.O. Box 869Big Spring, TX 79721(915) 267-6341

Guadalupe-Blanco RiverP.O. Box 271Seguin, TX 78156(830) 379-5822

Lavaca-Navidad RiverP.O. Box 429Edna, TX 77957(512) 782-5229

Lower Colorado RiverP.O. Box 220Austin, TX 78767(512) 473-3200

Lower Neches ValleyP.O. Drawer 3464Beaumont, TX 77704(409) 892-4011

North Texas MunicipalWaterP.O. Drawer CWylie, TX 75098(972) 442-5445

Nueces RiverP.O. Box 379Uvalde, TX 78802(830) 278-6810

Northeast Texas MunicipalWaterP.O. Box 955Hughes Springs, TX 75656(972) 639-7538

Palo Duro RiverP.O. Box 1046Spearman, TX 79081(806) 659-3428

Red Bluff Water PowerControl111 West 2nd St.Pecos, TX 79772(915) 445-2037

Red River520 Hamilton BuildingWichita Falls, TX 76301(940) 723-8697

Sabine RiverP.O. Box 759Orange, TX 77630(409) 746-2192

San Antonio RiverP.O. Box 830027San Antonio, TX 78283(210) 227-1373

San Jacinto RiverP.O. Box 329Conroe, TX 77305(409) 588-1111

Springhills Water Mgmt.P.O. Box 771Bandera, TX 78003(830) 796-7260

Trinity RiverP.O. Box 60Arlington, TX 76004(817) 467-4343

Upper Colorado RiverP.O. Box 680Ballinger, TX 76821(915) 365-2525

Upper Guadalupe RiverP.O. Box 1278Kerrville, TX 78029(830) 896-5445

Upper Neches RiverMunicipal WaterP.O. Box 1965Palestine, TX 75802(903) 876-2237

West Central TexasMunicipal WaterP.O. Box 2362Abilene, TX 79604(915) 673-8254

39

Guide To Developing Community Fisheries40

Initial printing fundedby

TEXAS PARKS & WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT

NONGAME & URBAN PROGRAM4200 Smith School Rd.

Austin, TX 78744(800) 792-1112

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