Some might wonder what the Superintendent does during her time off.  This past weekend, bundled up in a thick jacket, hat, and gloves—but lacking the necessary footwear— to keep out the winter chill, Dr. Telena Wright took a break from her career for a day of fishing.

With a group of professionals, Wright set out on Lake Cooper near Cooper, Texas to compete in a local fishing tournament Feb. 9.   Though her 10 lb catfish was impressive, maintenance director Jim Hash won with an enormous 53 lb catfish.

“I have never seen fish the size of those caught up close before,” Wright said.  “Another person in our boat caught a 20 pound one.”

Though she enjoys fishing, Wright typically does not fish competitively.

“My fishing has been mostly unstructured and for relaxation,” Wright said.

The boat used more than luck to achieve success.

“This was very well planned,” Wright said. “The guide knew where the fish were and what months they bite.  The equipment was very professional with 10 rods and reels on our boat.  We used sonar to know where the fish were.”

Excited by the big catches, Wright hopes to go again.

“I enjoyed fishing in February because it is a good time for catfish to bite,” Wright said. “I would love to go again soon, but I will make sure to wear warmer footwear.”