In the United States, fishing regulations can vary significantly between states. Some states have reciprocal agreements that allow anglers from one state to fish in the other without purchasing an additional license. Texas and Oklahoma are two states that have had a reciprocal fishing license agreement for certain age groups in the past. However, the details of this agreement have changed over time. In this article, we’ll explore the current status of the Texas-Oklahoma reciprocal fishing license agreement in 2024.
The History of the Texas-Oklahoma Reciprocal Fishing License Agreement
Texas and Oklahoma have had a reciprocal fishing license agreement in place for many years. The agreement initially allowed residents of both states who were 64 years of age or older to fish in the other state without purchasing an additional license. In September 1999, Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission proposed amendments to their fishing license rules that would eliminate the reciprocal agreement with Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Kansas. As a result, Oklahoma suspended reciprocal privileges for Texas seniors.
However, in June 2000, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission reinstated reciprocal fishing privileges for Oklahoma seniors. This meant that Oklahoma residents 64 years of age or older could once again fish in Texas without a non-resident license, and Texas residents 64 and older could fish in Oklahoma without a non-resident license.
The Current Texas-Oklahoma Reciprocal Fishing License Agreement in 2024
As of 2024, the reciprocal fishing license agreement between Texas and Oklahoma still applies to seniors in both states. Texas residents who are 65 years of age or older can fish in Oklahoma without purchasing an Oklahoma fishing license, as long as they have a valid Texas driver’s license or ID. Similarly, Oklahoma residents who are 64 years of age or older can fish in Texas without purchasing a Texas fishing license, as long as they have a valid Oklahoma driver’s license or ID.
However, it’s important to note that the reciprocal agreement only applies to fishing licenses. Other requirements, such as trout stamps or tags, may still apply. Additionally, the reciprocal agreement does not apply to the entire state of Texas or Oklahoma. For example, Texas residents 65 and older can fish in Louisiana without a Louisiana license, but only in certain border waters.
Fishing in Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma is a unique case when it comes to fishing licenses in Texas and Oklahoma. The lake straddles the border between the two states, and anglers can fish anywhere on the lake with a Lake Texoma fishing license. These licenses cost $12.00 and are valid until December 31st of the year they are purchased.
While the reciprocal agreement allows seniors to fish in the other state without a license, it does not apply to Lake Texoma. Anglers fishing on the Texas side of Lake Texoma need a Texas fishing license, while those on the Oklahoma side need an Oklahoma license.
Conclusion
In 2024, the reciprocal fishing license agreement between Texas and Oklahoma still allows seniors in both states to fish in the other state without purchasing an additional license. However, the agreement has a long and complex history, with changes made to the agreement over the years. It’s important for anglers to be aware of the current regulations and any exceptions, such as the unique licensing requirements for Lake Texoma.