Editor's Insight-January 2025

Editor’s Insight-January 2025

Written by TOJ’s Founder and Editor Bill L. Olson

Resolute In the New Year

As this column’s title implies some Insight is provided. There is great optimism in Texas and our country as Year 2025 begins. On the national scene recent events indicate “We The People” want a return to some “Old School” approaches.
Maybe common sense isn’t dead, fiscal responsibility and accountability may occur, plus there’s even a chance the media will return to what it was intended – report factual news. That is a big order. If this happens, or begins to move in the right direction, enhanched state security plus maintaining ecoromic growth will drive more opportunities in areas most impacted and statewide.
There are growing challenges in our outdoor world relating to management of wild things in wild places. Man’s encroachment, and wildlife’s ongoing adjustment continues. The wild world is not static and continues to be ever changing.
Our state is an attractive place for many reasons and has caught the attention of millions that want to live and work here. Those that come to the Lone Star State are encouraged to embrace our rich, opportunistic history and diverse cultures.
Addressing the growing list of wildlife issues requires funding, and government appropriations are not the only place to find needed revenue. Partnerships should be explored and pursued. There are plenty of opportunities to connect and work with like-minded organizations and individuals.
Education and leadership are vitally important, even in what is classified as recreational pursuits. Texas coastal anglers exhibited sound reasoning following the speckled trout kill following Winter Storm Uri in February 2021. State emergency action reduced the bag limit affording a chance for recovery. Once time had passed, and increased limits reinstated, coastal anglers raised a unified voice requesting lower limits be maintained. This was not only to continue to support recovery, but also address the added pressure Texas’ increasing population would bring on coastal fisheries.
As a byproduct other fish species were “discovered” as a viable and worthy part of a day’s catch. Instead of just one gamefish, the pressure spread over many, and new opportunities enjoyed.
Hunters have seen similar changes over the years. Even though based on science, some regulations where initially resisted. Over time the science proved valid, and what started as an isolated test became an accepted statewide practice.
Hunters and anglers both expect accountability from those that regulate and enforce. All need to come to the table to not only raise issues, but also with potential solutions to help overcome. Don’t drop an issue and say, “fix it.” The solution comes from cooperation from all involved.
I can assure you Team TOJ will continue to be the leader providing information on topics not raised by others. Over the years we have led by drawing upon the professional expertise of those that make up this Team.
New members are being added to provide insights of different opportunities plus expanded coverage of Texas’ vast and diverse landscapes. Other contributors will provide monthly editorial balance as both hunting and fishing, or fishing and hunting is covered
Finally, we ask our readers to play a role. Spread the word of the professional coverage you read and support. Keep your subscription current, tell your friends, encourage them to subscribe, or give a gift subscription on special occasions. It’s a gift that gives year-round, every month. We’re in this together and TOJ will continue to lead.

Until next month:Pursue all of your outdoor activities in a safe and ethical manner.

************************************************************************
To read more, click here to SUBSCRIBE