The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center has opened the Texas division of Wildlife Forever’s 2026 Fish Art Contest for entries, inviting students to showcase their creativity while learning about the state’s aquatic life.
Entries will be accepted through Feb. 28. The annual program, part of an international conservation education effort, is designed to foster youth interest in fish, fisheries and fishing.
“The Fish Art Contest does a tremendous job of exposing students across Texas to the wonders of Texas’ fish and fisheries resources through the nexus of art,” said Tom Lang, TFFC director. “We always look forward to this time of year when we are once again amazed by the outstanding work and artistic interpretations of these young Texans.”
Students in grades 4-12 must submit an entry form, an original illustration of a wild fish found in Texas and a one-page creative writing piece. The artwork, between 8-by-10 inches and 9-by-12 inches in landscape orientation, must be mailed to TFFC in Athens and postmarked by Feb. 28.
The 2026 Special Species Award will highlight the paddlefish, a prehistoric fish species that has lived for more than 300 million years. Paddlefish, listed as threatened in Texas, have been protected by state law since 1977.
“The Fish Art Contest is just one way in which we can help our students connect with the outdoors,” said Darrel Malone, education and interpretation coordinator at TFFC. “As they research their chosen fish species and begin to learn about its habitat, they begin to find a personal connection. This connection can help inspire the future stewards of our natural resources.”
Texas winners will be featured in the state Fish Art calendar, awarded scholarships, exhibited at TFFC and invited to a family fishing celebration. Winning entries also advance to Wildlife Forever’s national contest.
Entry forms, rules and additional details are available on the TFFC Fish Art Contest website.