Wood County vs. McCulloch County
Bass & The Heart of Texas
Today’s match-up pairs the Piney Woods fishing destination with the geographical center of the state. Wood County, in East Texas, is famous for Lake Fork and its bass fishing. McCulloch County, on the edge of the Hill Country, is home to Brady and the literal "Heart of Texas." One is defined by water and woods; the other by its central location and ranching heritage.
Wood County (Population Approx. 45,000)
Wood County is an angler's paradise. Lake Fork is legendary for producing trophy bass, driving a robust tourism economy around Quitman and Mineola. The area also features charming historic downtowns and a strong retiree community. The vibe is relaxed, wooded, and friendly. Challenges include managing lake levels, maintaining rural infrastructure, and healthcare access.
McCulloch County (Population Approx. 7,600)
McCulloch County is the crossroads of the state. Brady is known as the "Heart of Texas" and hosts the World Championship BBQ Goat Cook-Off. The economy is driven by agriculture (cattle, sheep, goats) and hunting. The community is resilient and central, a meeting point for travelers. Challenges include economic diversification and water conservation in a semi-arid region.
Why It Matters
Wood County leverages its natural resources for recreation. McCulloch County leverages its location for commerce and culture. Both counties demonstrate how rural communities build identity around their unique assets.
Why Forward
Forward believes that the fishing guide in Lake Fork and the rancher in Brady deserve a voice that matters.
In Wood County, the tourism economy needs support. Open Primaries would allow the community to elect leaders who prioritize natural resource management and economic development over partisan issues. Ranked Choice Voting would help the diverse towns of the county work together.
In McCulloch County, being the center shouldn't mean being overlooked. Ranked Choice Voting empowers the rural center of the state to elect champions for agricultural support and rural healthcare. It ensures that the Heart of Texas keeps beating strong.
Did You Know…
Lake Fork (Wood) has produced more of the top 50 largest bass in Texas history than any other lake.
Brady (McCulloch) is the closest city to the Geographical Center of Texas.
Mineola (Wood) is a designated National Main Street City and a train stop on the Amtrak Texas Eagle.
The World Championship BBQ Goat Cook-Off in Brady is the largest of its kind, held every Labor Day weekend.
Wood County hosts the Old Settlers Reunion in Quitman, a tradition since 1902.
Why Texans Love Living Here
Wood residents love the quiet mornings on the lake, the pine-shaded streets, and the vibrant main streets. McCulloch locals love the pride of being in the "Heart," the world-class hunting, and the aroma of slow-cooked goat in September.
Key Events That Bring Neighbors Together
World Championship BBQ Goat Cook-Off (Brady/McCulloch): A massive festival drawing cook teams from everywhere.
Yantis Catfish Classic (Wood): A major fishing tournament on Lake Fork.
Mineola Iron Horse Festival (Wood): Celebrating the town's railroad heritage.
Heart of Texas Country Music Festival (Brady): Celebrating traditional country music.
People & Tech Created This
The profiles and shared challenges were gathered from Texas Forward Party supporters and written using ChatGPT and Gemini models to combine verified public data, official county/state sources, and general knowledge from Texas historical and government records:
