Always the same question, "Why?" Always the sanme answer, "Politics and money."

The laws with respect to fish in Texas are made by politicians. They get advice from biologists, but do not have to follow it. Plus, a state biologist understands which side his bread is buttered and and recommendations will be along company lines, and politically correct, if not biologically so.

Laws about tilapia, if they were to nmake any sense whatsoever now that the species is well entrenced in Texas (brought here initially by TP&WD, not private enterprise), should reflect those about another now common, well entrenched, invasive exotic species, the common carp. The common carp is considered "indigenous" by the law. Tilapia should be managed the same way and draconian laws that do nothing more than protect a very few economic interests should be revamped.

As of right here and now today, and any biologist will concur, tilapia exist in Texas in those places where they can, and do not exist in those places where they cannot. Biologically, not legally, speaking. Any law, rule, or regulation cannot change that.

Further, fish is the only farm animal in Texas that requires a license to produce, another draconian attempt to keep aquaculture out of Texas.

IF tilapia were legal, THEN there would be a huge backyard industry of "fish gardening" where tilapia are raised for family consumption in a tank or pond on the premises, sometimes in aquaponic systems that also produces vegetables for consumption. No other fish lends itself to such systems as well as the tilapia does.

[quote=Fish Killer]Remember both are considered a invasive species and its illegal to release it back into the water. They are supposed to be gutted on the spot.

Why do they have to be gutted on the spot? Can't you just do that at home if you are going to eat it?

Remember both are considered a invasive species and its illegal to release it back into the water. They are supposed to be gutted on the spot.

TP&W Regulations