I found a new website called Take Me Fishing (TMF) while searching the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.  TMF is a  boating and fishing site hosted by the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation RBFF.  This is a good beginning fishing and children fishing website.  Learn about fishing regulation, boat registration, where and when to go fishing.  This pledge caught my eye.  I always like stories and folklore in the oral tradition being passed along to the next generation.

Another tidbit of information I would like to share is that Texax State Parks and Wildlife are still waiving the normal fishing license and stamps–as long as you fishing on a body of water that is within the boundary of the park.

Once you have paid the park entrance fees, no one needs a fishing license or stamp, whether freshwater or saltwater, adult or child, as long as they’ are inside the state park. However, bag limits, length limits, and other regulations will still apply, and be enforced.

Gone Fishing Events include basic instruction in fishing skills and safety. Bring the whole family! No fishing license required. Fishing equipment and bait may be provided or you can bring your own. Bring drinking water and sunscreen; children must be accompanied by parent or adult guardian during instruction and fishing. Weather permitting we will meet in the boat ramp parking area at the park.

Angler Instructor Training, Fish with a Ranger, Fish from a Pier

Every Saturday, Weather Permitting –>> view this–park page for exact dates and parks –<<

Pier Fishing
Goose Island State Park
September 5

Whether you travel overseas or just up the coast – a holiday is always something to which you  look forward. Of course, the trip you plan will depend on the type of holiday you want; for some, it is relaxing on a beach or poolside by a 5-star resort while others are looking for some adrenalin pumping action. Are you one to mingle with the locals or do you make fast friends with other travelers on your tour – what is your travel personality?

The Adventure Seeker: for you, a holiday is about new and extreme experiences, something to get the adrenalin pumping. Climb the highest mountain, ski the blackest runs, dive the deepest depths – you will go to any lengths for a new thrill. If you are an adventure seeker, consider river rafting in Zambia or bungee jumping in New Zealand. Meanwhile, if you are really looking for an experience that will have you on the edge of your seat, may we also suggest a harrowing motorcycle-taxi ride through the streets of Bangkok?

The one looking for a “True Local Experience”: forget the guidebooks with their tourist attractions and top restaurant recommendations – traveling is about the true local experience. You explore off the beaten track, lunch in hole-in-the-wall eateries and hire a local guide to show you the hidden side of your destination. You will go as far as learning the language before you arrive and we are not talking about those token phrases of “Where’s the toilet?”

For a truly unique cultural experience, fly into the heart of India on Delhi flights or learn about the rich Buddhist roots when you head to Sri Lanka.

The Luxury Traveler: it is time to indulge yourself – you deserve it. First class flights and 5-star hotels – you know how to travel in style. Or perhaps a leisurely cruise with drinks by the poolside is more up your alley. One of the greatest benefits about overseas travel is that the luxury experience does not have to cost an arm and a leg. A stay at the 5-star Bangkok Marriott Resort can be as little as $115 a night.

Want a taste of the good life? Consider the newest luxury destinations of Abu Dhabi or Dubai; with luxury hotel suites costing a mere $20,000 a night (private helicopter and chauffeur are extra). Otherwise, you can take advantage of great rates for luxury hotels in South East Asia – consider Thailand, Vietnam or the Philippines.

The Bargain Hunter: when it comes to holidaying on a budget, you are a champion at finding the latest deals, cheap flights and budget accommodation – after all, you will be having too much fun to care about where you tuck in for the night. Secret airline sales, price comparison and travel clubs – you know them all. After all, saving money on your trips means you can afford to travel more.

Students and backpackers, of course, are renowned for their ability to travel on a shoestring. Young travel communities are a great way to meet like minded travelers and new friends – and of course, a great way to save some moolah for that round the world trip you’re planning next.

The Family Holidaymaker: nowadays, holidays are all about spending quality time with the family. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture those special moments together – when the kids are not running off to soccer practice and Mum and Dad don’t have to stay late at the office. There are plenty of accommodation and family holiday packages that specifically cater to families – consider a trip to the Gold Coast or a drive through the breathtaking wilderness of Tasmania.

Courtesy of Flight Centre

Pedernales River

Reimer’s Ranch

Just 30 minutes west of Austin, you will find three miles of continuous frontage along the Pedernales Rivers, with 2,427 acres to explore.  Local anglers come to fish for white bass, rock climbers hang out and there are four mountain biking and hiking trails with difficulty and length.  Fish, swim, enjoy the some of the most pristine public land remaining around Austin. Take Highway 71 west of Austin through the town of Bee Cave and turn left onto FM 3238 (Hamilton Pool Road). Travel 12 miles to the Park entrance, on your right. Day use only. Fee.

Hamilton Pool  Preserve

Hamilton Pool is a collapsed grotto formed by thousands of years of water erosion.  This pristine swimming hole is located 3/4 miles upstream from the confluence of Hamilton Creek and the Pedernales River. Rock strewn trail leads to the river. Water quality is carefully monitored, so call 512 264 2740 before making plans..  Take Highway 71 west of Austin through the town of Bee Cave and turn left onto FM 3238 (Hamilton Pool Road). Travel 13 miles to the Preserve entrance, on your right. Day use only. Admission is limited to 100 people. Fee

Pedernales Falls State Park

About 30 miles south of Austin off  Hwy290, Pedernales contains white water over a gradual slope and deep, slow-moving pools at the bottom of the “falls.” Access to the river from the parking lot is a rugged, steep climb. The park offers camping, showers, restrooms, hookups, and hiking trails. Visit TPWD website for more information. 830/868-7304. Fee.

Krause Springs

There are 32 springs on the property.  There is a man-made pool that drops into the natural pool  that flows into Lake Travis. Take Texas Highway 71 west from Austin, past the Pedernales River and drive 7 miles. Turn right on Spur 191, take a right turn on County Road 404.  You will see Krause Springs entrance is on the right.Day use, camping and 24 RV sites.  Fee

When and Where

The Perseids meteor shower will peak the night of August 12/morning of August 13.  This year, there will be very little moonlight to interfere with viewing. The meteors will appear from the constellation Perseus, rising in the northeast after 11 pm.

Viewing Point

Locate a good viewing spot in advance*. Drive away from city lights toward the northeast. After you have escaped the lights of the city, find a dark, secluded spot where lights from cars, beacons or cell towers will not ruin your sensitive night vision.  State and national parks are safe places

How to View

Arrive early and settle at your viewing point. Lie back, position yourself so the horizon appears at the edge of your peripheral vision, with the stars and sky filling your field of view. Meteors will instantly grab your attention as they streak by.

Do Not Forget

Locate restrooms, secure your keys and have a well-memorized pathway back to your vehicle. You will want to bring bug spray, blanket, pillow, water and snacks.  Star maps are useful.  View them with a red-lensed flashlight to protect your night vision. Young children will find the experience less than thrilling–leave them at home or arrange to keep them otherwise occupied.

Our Story*

A few years ago, we thought we were prepared to view the Perseids.  We scouted a great location on the golf course in Lockhart State Park.  On the afternoon of the meteor shower, we pulled up early in our RV and ate dinner.  As darkness fell,  we sat outside and watched the stars appear!  Then, about 8 pm, we noticed a bright white beacon shooting up into the sky, passing back and forth in our field of vision.  A new car dealership had just opened and advertising this fact to the stars.  We turned in early that night.

Eclectic Texas Events-This Weekend

Boerne

Wild West Chuck Wagon Dinner Show
The Enchanted Springs Ranch (Highway 46, west of IH-10)
July 21

http://www.enchantedspringsranch.com/

The Enchanted Springs Ranch will host a Texas BBQ, with live Western music, tractor wagon rides, animal park, western entertainment, pictures with Woodrow the Longhorn Steer, and tours through the Western movie set and Wild West Town, from 5-730 pm.

Fredericksburg

Third Annual Gourmet Chili Pepper & Salsa Festival
Wildseed Farms
July 23-24

http://www.tex-fest.com/

Enjoy the  hot air balloon show, wildflower fields, the butterfly haus, live music and much more. Live music by Ponty Bone & The Squeeze Tones at 7 pm Friday night and Rotel & The Hot Tomatoes at 8 pm Saturday night. Hours are Friday, 3-10 pm and Saturday, 10 am-11 pm.

Auto Swap Meet
Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, Highway 16 South
July 23-25

http://www.fredericksburgcarclub.com/

Fredericksburg Vintage Car Club (FVCC), a touring club affiliated with the Veteran Motor Car Club of America (VMCCA). Antique auto and car swap meet. Antique car lovers opportunity to become a treasure hunter and find vintage cars, parts and memorabilia. Hours are Friday and Saturday 8 am-5 pm and Sunday 8 am – noon. Swap meet is free.

Bandera

July 23-24
National Day of the American Cowboy Celebration
Frontier Times Museum and Running R Guest Ranch

http://frontiertimesmuseum.org/cowboy/index.htm

Event begins Friday night with a ranch rodeo. Enjoy a cowboy breakfast on the Courthouse lawn Saturday,  followed by a western arts and craft show with entertainment.  Ranch Rodeo follows in the evening on Saturday. No fee for celebration, rodeo tickets sold here.

Bellville

Spring Creek Bluegrass Club Show & Jam
Coushatte Recreation Ranch
July 24

http://springcreekbluegrass.com/monthly_show.htm

Spring Creek Bluegrass Club 4th Saturday show at Coushatte Recreation Ranch.  Jamming starts at 4 pm and the show starts at 630 pm.

Pipe Creek

Buckle Series Rodeo and Pipe Creek Stampede
BR Lightning Ranch – Located just 9 miles east of Bandera, 12 miles south of Boerne, and 22 miles west of Helotes. Turn off Hwy. 16 at pipe Creek 1/2 mile south on  FM 1283
July 24

http://www.lightningranch.com/rodeo_series.htm

Open Bull Riding – Junior Bull riding – Steer Riding – Calf Roping – Team Roping – Barrel Racing – Chute Dogging – Calf Scramble – Mutton Busting–AND–the world’s only high-diving aqua mules.

Brenham

Crush for Fun
July 24
Pleasant Hill Winery

http://www.pleasanthillwinery.com

Stomp grapes at Pleasant Hill Winery in Brenham.  Get a photograph of your purple feet and a T-shirt that reads “I picked, I stomped, I made some wine.”