Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center to Reopen Oct. 8

Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center to Reopen Oct. 8

Oct. 1, 2025

Media Contact: TPWD News, Business Hours, 512-389-8030

News ImageShare on FacebookShare Release URL

ATHENS - The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) will reopen Oct. 8 following the completion of emergency repairs to a steel structural support column in the main visitor center building. The visitor center has remained closed since emergency repairs began in early August.

"The closure timing was certainly less than ideal, but the safety of our visitors and staff are paramount," said Tom Lang TFFC Director. "In less than two months, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) staff have been able to develop a plan of work, contract, and have the work completed and inspected. Additionally, during that timeframe, TFFC staff were able to move, care for, and return display fish to their exhibits."

Corrosion of the steel structural support column, which was concealed behind an educational display, was discovered during routine inspection of the facility. Water and moisture from previous leaks prior to a recent roof replacement, unrelated to the recent TFFC renovation project, contributed to the corrosion.

"We are thankful to be able to remedy the problem efficiently and effectively while providing first class care for the display fish," said Lang. "With the work complete and inspections conducted, we can again focus our attention to sharing the joys of fishing and amazing Texas fisheries resources with families from across the country."

About TFFC

TFFC has been delighting visitors for nearly 30 years, welcoming more than 1.1 million visitors to marvel at the schools of fish in the indoor and outdoor aquariums, study the exhibits and learn how Texas' diverse inland waterways support and connect all living creatures. Well-stocked fishing ponds provide an opportunity for visitors of all ages to wet a line, and thousands of new anglers have caught their first fish there.

TFFC is also home to the Toyota ShareLunker Program, which invites anglers to donate largemouth bass weighing 13 pounds or more for research and breeding. It also houses the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, celebrating individuals and organizations that have advanced freshwater fishing in Texas. In addition, the American Fisheries Society's Fisheries Management Hall of Excellence is located at TFFC, recognizing top fisheries scientists from around the world.

TFFC is home to the statewide Angler Recognition Program, which recognizes record fresh and saltwater catches. Additionally, TFFC facilitates the annual Fish Art Contest in Texas, which is part of a conservation education program designed to spark the imaginations of students while providing valuable lessons about fish and the importance of conserving Texas' aquatic resources.

For additional information about TFFC, visit the TFFC website and Facebook page.