In the state of Texas, the age requirement for a senior fishing license is 65 years old and above. This means that any Texas resident who is at least 65 years of age as of January 1, 2024 or later is eligible to purchase a discounted senior fishing license.
Senior Fishing License Packages in Texas
Texas offers several specialized fishing license packages for seniors:
Senior Resident Freshwater Fishing Package
This $12 package includes a senior resident fishing license and a freshwater fishing stamp.
Senior Resident Saltwater Fishing Package
This $17 package includes a senior resident fishing license and a saltwater sportfishing stamp with a red drum tag.
Senior Resident “All Water” Fishing Package
This $22 package includes a senior resident fishing license, a freshwater fishing stamp, and a saltwater sportfishing stamp with a red drum tag.
These discounted senior fishing license packages provide Texas residents aged 65 and older with more affordable options to enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing throughout the state.
Exceptions to Texas Fishing License Requirements
While most anglers aged 17 and over are required to purchase a fishing license in Texas, there are a few exceptions:
Anglers under the age of 17 do not need a license to fish in Texas.
Texas residents born before January 1, 1931 do not need a license to fish in Texas.
Texas residents with mental disabilities can fish license-free if supervised by a licensed family member or as part of a supervised medical therapy program.
Additionally, no license is required when fishing from the banks or piers in Texas State Parks, or on the state’s annual Free Fishing Day (the first Saturday in June).
Fishing Interstate Waters
Texas has reciprocal fishing license agreements with some neighboring states, allowing anglers to fish shared waters without needing to purchase a second license.
For example, Texas residents aged 65 and older can fish anywhere in Louisiana with just their Texas senior fishing license. Younger Texas residents can also fish in Louisiana’s border waters without a Louisiana license.
Similarly, Texas residents aged 65 and older can fish in Oklahoma without an Oklahoma license, while younger Texans need an Oklahoma license to fish there, except when fishing Lake Texoma, which has its own special license.
These interstate fishing agreements provide more flexibility and cost savings for senior anglers who live near state borders and want to explore fishing opportunities in neighboring states.
In conclusion, the age requirement for a discounted senior fishing license in Texas is 65 years old and above as of January 1, 2024 or later. Texas offers several specialized senior fishing license packages that provide significant savings for older anglers who wish to fish in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Additionally, there are a few exceptions to the general fishing license requirements, as well as reciprocal agreements with some neighboring states that benefit senior Texas residents.