Adaptive Fishing Programs

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department programs offer assistance that enables individuals with disabilities to enjoy fishing.

Learn to Fish

TPWD offers numerous opportunities to learn how to fish through its events calendar, featuring classes and workshops held across the state. Those interested in sharing their love of fishing can take a hands-on instructor training workshop. TPWD’s Angler Education program prioritizes accessibility, striving to make all classes and events welcoming and inclusive. Individuals with disabilities can request specific modifications to meet their needs through the TPWD Accessibility Modification Request Form, ensuring everyone can participate fully in these enriching experiences.

Visitors Centers

Sea Center Texas and the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center provide accessible educational and fishing opportunities for visitors of all abilities. Sea Center Texas in Lake Jackson features a hatchery, touch tanks, and aquariums showcasing marine life, while the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens offers interactive displays and outdoor trails focused on freshwater ecosystems. Both host adaptive fishing events for groups and special events, ensuring everyone can enjoy fishing.

Recreation Grants Program

The Recreation Grants Program assists communities across Texas with their outdoor recreation needs through our grant assistance and outreach programs. From the largest metropolis to the smallest rural community these programs help to build new parks, conserve natural resources, provide access to water bodies, develop educational programs for youth, and much more. Providing grants to communities across Texas helps build access to outdoor experiences and encourages a connection with nature.

Habitat and Angler Access

The Habitat and Angler Access Program restores and enhances freshwater fish habitats and improves and expands bank and shoreline-based angler access on public creeks, rivers, ponds, and lakes throughout the state. The Program enables cooperation between TPWD’s Inland Fisheries Division biologists and local partners to make fishing better for all Texans.

Tackle Loaner Program

The Tackle Loaner Program allows you to borrow fishing equipment as easily as you borrow books at a library. Borrow rods, reels and tackle - bobbers, weights and hooks.

Volunteering

From organizing Special Olympics Fishing Tournaments to assisting with Angler Education classes for people with visual impairment, there is always a need for volunteers to support adaptive fishing. Contact TPWD Accessibility to discuss how you can get involved!