» 2013 SALTWATER FISHING FORECAST Under the THERE’S MORE TO TEXAS SALTWATER FISHING THAN REDFISH AND SEATROUT. T Sea exas anglers are becoming more dependent on redfish and spotted seatrout as a measure of angling success. According to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department creel surveys, anglers are targeting these species more frequently than they did in the 1980s and ’90s, and landings of these two species account for a larger percentage of the total recreational catch. “We’d like to see anglers become less dependent upon reds and trout, and target other species,” says Mark Fisher, TPWD marine science director. “When one of these species has a low abundance year, like trout in 2010, then angler satisfaction declines.” Fortunately, trout and reds continue to flourish, but there are abundant other species available as well. Fisher notes that spotted seatrout birth and survival rates have been very good the past four years. It takes two years for a trout to reach legal size, so anglers should see strong trout numbers in Clean Your Boat. Save Your Lake. Zebra mussels are small invasive species that can spread from lake to lake by hitching a ride on your boat and trailer. One female can have up to a million microscopic larvae. They mature quickly, attach to hard surfaces and can damage your boat and engine. They hurt aquatic life, ruin ecosystems and fisheries — even affect your water supply. You can keep that from happening by cleaning your boat, motor, trailer and gear of all debris and draining it of all water. Then dry it for at least a week or wash it all with hot, soapy water before boating in another waterbody. Learn more at www.texasinvasives.org. TEXAS PARKS & WILD L I F E * 23