On the Hook
Held in May and September, Anglers on Wheels fishing trips give people with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy the open water with their friends and family. A charter boat takes participants to the bays and flats around Port Aransas to fish for black drum, redfish, skipjacks, speckled trout, and sharks. Door in the Wall, a nonprofit in Port Aransas focused on improving the lives of disabled people through making recreation experiences accessible, has hosted the event for 27 years.
The trips are free for participants. Fishing licenses are provided by Texas Parks and Wildlife, and the nonprofit provides a fishing pole, bait, tackle, and deck hands. Participants range from small children to those in their 80s. “Everyone’s welcome, which is important because the young children on board who are just facing their lives with disabilities get to see older individuals out there fishing and having fun,” Door in the Wall co-founder Barbara Blair says. “So many disability programs are geared for children only, and disabled adults don’t have much out there for them. So, we welcome everyone.”
The Island Queen II fishing boat is a converted ferry that’s wheelchair accessible and covered to protect against the sun. A trough on board is filled with water to allow anglers to see the fish they catch up close, and free snacks and drinks are provided. Reservations must be made, as space is limited. Participants are selected on a first-come, first-served basis. —Amanda Ogle
BIG BEND COUNTRY
ALPINE
Trappings of Texas
Sept. 15-Nov. 5
The 36th annual Trappings of Texas is the nation’s longest-running exhibit of Western art and custom cowboy gear. Enjoy an opening reception and sale, daytime artist demonstrations, and a ranch roundup party. Museum of the Big Bend, 400 N. Harrison St. 432-837-8145; museumofthebigbend.com
ALPINE
Native Plant Society of Texas Fall Symposium
Sept. 22-25
Every fall, the event convenes in a different region which serves as the focus of the year’s symposium. Field trips, workshops, and exhibits complement presentations that are open to the public. Alpine Civic Center, 801 W. Holland Ave.
830-997-9272; npsot.org/wp/event/fall-symposium-hybrid
DEL RIO
16 de Septiembre Celebration
Sept. 16-17
Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with live music, vendors, food trucks, dancing, and games for kids. Brown Plaza, 305 Cantu St. 830-775-3551
