Near Whitney in Hill County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
Bass Fishing in Texas
A number of other changes spurred on the popularity of bass fishing in the state. Urbanization occurred during the 1950s, as many families moved to the city following World War II. Many of these city dwellers became interested in bass fishing as a leisure activity. In 1955, the Waco Tribune-Herald organized a competitive bass fishing tournament on Lake Whitney. This tournament, the first of its kind, became the Texas State Bass Tournament in 1956. Also during this time, fishing technology developed, which helped anglers become more efficient. Additionally, governments at all levels worked to keep fishing populations healthy. The Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, passed by congress in 1950, authorized federal funds for state fish hatcheries and programs to restore and manage fish populations.
By the 1970s, Florida largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides floridanus), which are well suited for Texas reservoir environments, were introduced. In 1986, more restrictive length and daily bag limits fostered catch and release fishing. This helped turn bass fishing into one of the most popular sports in Texas.
As bass fishing continued to grow in popularity, sporting clubs organized and business associated with it increased. Today, across Texas, bass fishing continues to be a highly popular sport and leisure activity, and a profitable business.
Erected 2008 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 15487.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Sports. A significant historical year for this entry is 1955.
Location. 31° 55.122′ N, 97° 22.351′ W. Marker is near Whitney, Texas, in Hill County. Marker is on State Park Road 47, on the right when traveling east. Marker is located within Lake Whitney State Park. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Whitney TX 76692, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 8 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Towash (approx. ¼ mile away); Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church (approx. 3.1 miles away); Whitney (approx. 3.7 miles away); Whitney Messenger (approx. 3.7 miles away); King Memorial United Methodist Church (approx. 3.8 miles away); Smith Bend - Coon Creek Cemetery (approx. 6.4 miles away); Coon Creek Community (approx. 6.6 miles away); Fort Graham Cemetery (approx. 7.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Whitney.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 13, 2023. It was originally submitted on June 13, 2023, by Brian Anderson of Humble, Texas. This page has been viewed 105 times since then and 50 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 13, 2023, by Brian Anderson of Humble, Texas.