The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is turning to the public for their take on potential new rules that could impose tighter restrictions on spotted seatrout fishing along the state coast. According to details released by TPWD, these new regulations suggest a reduction in the daily bag limit to three fish per angler and changes in legal catch size to a range between 15-20 inches, with an allowance for one fish over 25 inches per day.
This move comes on the heels of various efforts by TPWD to gauge public opinion, which indicated a consensus among anglers for more stringent measures. Such restrictions aim to bolster the fishery's health and sustainability. Fishermen and local stakeholders have been invited to voice their concerns or show support for these proposed changes at several public hearings set up along the Texas coast, as reported by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).
These meet-ups are positioned as opportunities for individuals to take an active role in the regulatory process, with proceedings scheduled across a range of coastal cities. Sessions will be occurring on January 9th at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, the Greater Chamber of Harlingen, the Bauer Exhibit Building in Port Lavaca, and the Saltwater Pavilion at Rockport Beach Park. Additionally, gatherings are set for January 10th at the Bob Bowers Civic Center in Port Arthur and January 11th at the Captain's Room in the Nessler Civic Center in Texas City, as stated in the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission is set to review these proposals for final approval at its meeting in January 2024. Up until then, participants may also reach out directly via phone or email to the Coastal Fisheries Division at 512-389-8575 or [email protected] to make their voices heard.
