Beginners Luck
There are numerous avenues a Texas angler can take to enjoy affordable fishing.
Story and Photography by Matt Williams
Freshwater fishing is a whopper of a deal in Texas, and no other state agency that I’m aware of does a better job of reaching out to its customers than Texas Parks and Wildlife. This is especially true for young anglers and newcomers to a sport that has been around since the dawn of time and ranks among the purest, cleanest and most challenging of recreational pastimes.
There is a passel of great avenues a Texas angler can take to get their feet in fishing without investing a lot money. Just call it beginners luck.
One of the best places to go dabbling for details is TPWD’s Angler Education Program.
The program website (tpwd.texas.gov/education/angler-education) is like one stop shopping for meaningful information for anyone looking to get into the sport or show a newcomer the ropes.
A true rookie can learn a lot about the basics of fishing on the site before they ever wet a line. There are nearly a dozen videos explaining everything from casting basics and gear selection to bait choices, knot tying and how to clean your catch for the frying pan.
Additionally, there is information about free fishing classes taught by certified volunteer instructors, workshops and youth fishing derbies that are held at state parks according to a monthly calendar.
No fishing gear to fish with? No worries.
The program has loaner tackle kits available for large groups or individuals. The equipment includes rods, reels, tackle boxes, hooks, sinkers and bobbers. Loaner tackle may be checked in and out like library books for periods up to seven days. A deposit may be required at some locations.
