‘Let’s Go Fishing Y’all!’

Texas Sea Grant Communications Specialist Corley-Ann Parker produced a Guide to Saltwater Fishing Tournaments in Texas highlighting the state’s hundreds of saltwater fishing tournaments hosted throughout the coast, many with inshore and offshore divisions, as well as divisions for youth and adult anglers.

“Fishing tournaments are a great way for new and seasoned anglers alike to have fun on the water and gain more fishing experience with a chance to win trophies and prizes,” Parker quoted of Texas Sea Grant Fisheries Specialist Alexis Sabine. “Tournaments can also provide economic benefits to their host communities, raise money for charitable organizations and even support scientific research.”

Parker noted popular pending tournaments including the Texas International Fishing Tournament (TIFT) in South Padre Island on Aug. 2-6, and the Texas Women Anglers Tournament in Port Aransas on Aug. 25-27, as well as the BACH Tournament that benefits Brazoria County Association for Children’s Habilitation, and the Mid-Coast Smackdown in Port O’Connor that benefits several charitable organizations including St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Parker recommends joining local fishing clubs for more access to tourneys, and studying up on Texas rules and regulations in advance. For those who want to get close to the action, but not bait a hook, Texas Sea Grant’s new weighmaster training program equips interested individuals with the skills and knowledge required to become successful Texas weighmasters through a combination of lectures, practical experience, and a final exam. Weighmasters ensure the accuracy of fish measurements, help identify and confirm fish species and enforce tournament rules. The next round of weighmaster training courses will be held virtually May 24-25. For more information, visit tx.ag/weighmaster. Find more resources for recreational anglers online at tx.ag/RecFishingResources.