The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) will reopen to the public on October 8, following the completion of emergency repairs to a steel structural support column in the main visitor center. The facility has been closed since early August while repairs were underway.

According to TFFC Director Tom Lang, the corrosion was discovered during a routine inspection and traced to moisture from previous leaks that occurred before a recent roof replacement. The affected column had been concealed behind an educational display. Lang emphasized that while the timing of the closure was not ideal, ensuring the safety of visitors and staff remained the top priority.

“In less than two months, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department staff developed a plan, secured a contractor, and completed the work and inspections,” said Lang. “During that time, our team also relocated, cared for, and returned display fish to their exhibits.”

With repairs finalized and safety checks complete, TFFC is set to resume its mission of connecting families and visitors to Texas’ freshwater ecosystems.

About the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center

For nearly three decades, TFFC has welcomed more than 1.1 million visitors, offering immersive experiences through indoor and outdoor aquariums, educational exhibits, and stocked fishing ponds. Thousands of new anglers have caught their first fish at the center.

TFFC hosts several notable programs and honors, including:

• Toyota ShareLunker Program – Encouraging anglers to donate largemouth bass over 13 pounds for research and breeding
• Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame – Celebrating contributions to freshwater fishing in Texas
• Fisheries Management Hall of Excellence – Recognizing global leaders in fisheries science
• Angler Recognition Program – Acknowledging record catches across Texas
• Fish Art Contest – A conservation education initiative for students

For more information, visit the TFFC website or follow the TFFC Facebook page.