I found the Texas trip to be a great experience. I enjoyed the rough camping along with getting to see all the new animals. I also liked experiencing the new environments that exist down in Texas, from their humid barrier island to the dry hot desert. My overall favorite would be the Matagorda Island portion of the trip. Being exposed to the location and getting to catch new species of fish that I’d never seen before were highlights. The part I enjoyed most about being on the island is when I caught one of the most desired fishes in the area known as the red drum or redfish. This was the first saltwater fish I’d caught. Another high point of the island was walking all the way to the ocean to go swimming in the big waves, having fun, and experiencing it with people I got to meet on this trip. The final thing that I was excited to find was seeing an alligator in its natural habitat for the first time.
Other locations such as Independence Creek and South Llano River State Park were special. At these parks, I was able to try seining in these bodies of water and then able to see new fish species that we do not have in North Dakota. I also was able to catch a pure strain of Guadalupe bass from the South Llano River. Onto Independence Creek, I was able to see unique animals such as an armadillo and we were able to seine the river and see new fish species that I have I’ve never seen before. The desert ecosystem was also interesting to explore how the regional plants and animals adapted to their environment.
I learned about a new environment during the days that were spent on the island such as learning about what types of birds and wildlife live on Matagorda Island to be able to learn about saltwater fish. I think this experience will help me in my future career because this trip allowed me to experience new ecosystems. This allows me to be able to work in different locations rather than limiting me to the north. This trip also allowed me to work with new people which could be valuable in my future because I was able to work together as a team with people who were new to me, and we were able to successfully get tasks done. I also think the hands-on experience with the different fish and animal species is important in the fisheries and wildlife field because one will have a variety of situations in which I may be working, and it helps to be knowledgeable about a variety of animals and ecosystems. Overall, I found this trip to be extremely enjoyable and a great learning experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone who might be interested.
