by John Jefferson
Happy Birthday to US!
And US means the Texas newspaper-members of our Woods, Waters, and Wildlife outdoor news syndicate and our small, overworked and underpaid staff. Most member-papers joined us a year ago this week. The others, thankfully, got here as quickly as they could.
Outdoor journalism begins in the outdoors, as indicated by the attached photo. But it also includes regulatory matters that occur behind the pink granite walls at Austin’s 11th and Congress and in the southeast Austin home of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), affectionately called “the Giant Collator”. It appropriately resembles a mammoth paper sorter. We try to keep coverage as rural as possible but stray into other realms as dictated by the times and moods of the season.
And that brings us to mid-August – the season for new hunting and fishing licenses. All such licenses expire on August 31 each year. New licenses became available on August 15 at sporting goods stores, TPWD offices throughout Texas, and online (https://tpwd.texas.gov/business/licenses/online_sales/). Do yourself a favor and get new licenses before September 1 instead of waiting until dove season opens, like I did one year. I stood in line at McBride’s Guns in Austin for 30-40 minutes. At least I made some new friends in line.
And with the new license year, come the new hunting seasons, so “Happy New Year!” is also appropriate! It’s the start of a new year for hunters, fishermen and all others who enjoy the outdoors, cooler weather, and changing seasons. All wildlife is on the move. As the days become shorter, fish and wildlife sense the oncoming seasonal change, and adapt. Allen Christenson, Jr., a Lake Travis fishing guide, has kept catch records showing August rates exceed July numbers despite the hotter August temperatures. Deer are beginning to move, too.
The good news from TPWD is that license prices will remain the same as last year’s. Licenses are required for anyone who hunts, fishes or traps in Texas. Taking crayfish even requires a license. Anyone under age 17 is exempt from the license and endorsement requirements, unless hunting deer, since a license tag must be placed on the carcass. Hunting and fishing endorsements (formerly called “stamps”) are required for taking certain game species (including migratory birds, like doves) and for fishing in salt or fresh water. Basic cost of licenses is $30 (freshwater fishing), $35 (saltwater), $40 (All-Water), and $25 for hunting, plus endorsements. Other licenses, combinations and exemptions are listed in the TPWD Outdoor Annual, available free where licenses are sold. The best buy is a Super Combo ($68) which includes hunting and fishing licenses and all endorsements – saving $18, lots of hassle, and possible fines.
Hunter education is also required of all hunters born after September 2, 1971. HIP certification is mandatory for all migratory bird hunters, too.
If you apply for a coveted TPWD Drawn Hunt on wildlife management areas or state parks and are selected, you’ll also need a license. Some hunt application deadlines are imminent.
JJ
