Establishing a West Texas community fishery from the ground-up
Small impoundments in communities are important resources to provide fishing recreation and subsistence opportunities. Larger reservoirs are typically less convenient for individuals and families because of travel, lack of shoreline angling access, lack of amenities, as well as the need for vessels. Community fishing ponds are usually closer in proximity to homes, are situated in park spaces that offer a variety of amenities and features and may be less intimidating for families to partake in fishing, especially for those new to the sport. In West Texas, these waterbodies are crucial for attracting new anglers as well as keep active anglers engaged in fishing. In 2020, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) partnered with the City of Early to revitalize a fishery at site planned to create a new park and commerce space. In 2021, the TPWD’s Habitat and Angler Access Program awarded $95,000 to install two fishing piers, create gravel spawning beds, armor shoreline, native vegetation and other fish habitat enhancements. In 2023, the City of Early received additional HAAP funding to create a kayak launch on the pond as well as a fishing pad. Planning, design, and implementation of the pond revitalization were collaborative efforts with the city and contracted engineers. In 2023, Texas B.A.S.S. Nation and Major League Fishing Black Bass Stewardship Group partnered with TPWD and City of Early to further habitat enhancement efforts. This presentation will highlight the project, particularly the planning and implementation processes, successes, challenges, and lessons learned.