Editing Port Aransas, Texas (section)

==Economy==

[[Image:Port Aransas.JPG|thumb|Tourist shops at Port Aransas]]

Around 1900, the village was doing big business in [[sea turtle]] export. [[Fishing]] has always been a staple, especially sport fishing for [[spotted seatrout]] and [[redfish]]. Some 600+ species of saltwater fish are thought to inhabit the waters off Port Aransas. The fishing industry is still lively in the city, though local battles exist between the Recreational Fishing Alliance and the Coastal Conservation Association. Tourism is the largest section of the economy. The beach at Port Aransas draws thousands of visitors each weekend from [[Memorial Day]] through [[Labor Day]].

The Port Aransas economy is increasingly focusing on [[ecotourism]]. [[Bird watching|Bird-viewing]] locations have been established by the city and state agencies. [[Kayak]] paddling trails established by the state also contribute to ecotourism. Port Aransas has begun the construction of a natural preservation area that will provide hiking trails and other nature-related tourist activities.