As an avid angler, you may be wondering if your Oklahoma fishing license is valid in Texas or vice versa. The answer depends on several factors, including your age and residency status. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the reciprocal fishing agreements between Texas and Oklahoma, helping you navigate the waters with ease in 2024.
Reciprocal Fishing Agreements Between Texas and Oklahoma
Texas and Oklahoma have a reciprocal fishing agreement that allows certain anglers to fish in both states without purchasing additional licenses. The agreement is designed to simplify the licensing process for residents of both states and promote fishing opportunities along the shared border waters.
Under the current reciprocal agreement, an Oklahoma resident who is 65 years of age or older can fish in Texas without a license, and a Texas resident who is 65 or older can fish in Oklahoma without a license. This exemption applies to all public waters in Texas and Oklahoma, including the popular Lake Texoma, which straddles the border between the two states.
However, it’s important to note that the reciprocal agreement only applies to anglers who meet the age requirement. Residents under 65 and all non-residents must purchase a fishing license from the state in which they plan to fish, unless they fall under one of the other exemptions outlined in the states’ fishing regulations.
Fishing License Requirements for Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma is a unique case when it comes to fishing licenses. Since the lake is located in both Texas and Oklahoma, anglers have a few options when it comes to obtaining a license to fish there.
The most straightforward option is to purchase a Lake Texoma fishing license. These licenses cost $12.00 and are valid until December 31, 2024. They can be purchased at Walmart, local stores near the lake, or online through the Texas or Oklahoma wildlife departments. A Lake Texoma license allows anglers to fish anywhere on the lake, regardless of which state’s waters they are in.
Alternatively, anglers can choose to purchase a fishing license from either Texas or Oklahoma. A Texas fishing license allows anglers to fish from the Texas bank of Lake Texoma, while an Oklahoma fishing license is required to wade-fish or fish from a boat in the Oklahoma waters of the lake.
It’s important to note that the reciprocal agreement between Texas and Oklahoma does not apply to Lake Texoma. An Oklahoma resident who is 65 or older can fish in Texas without a license, but they will still need an Oklahoma fishing license to fish in the Oklahoma portion of Lake Texoma.
Other Exemptions and Considerations
In addition to the reciprocal agreement for anglers 65 and older, both Texas and Oklahoma offer other exemptions and considerations for fishing licenses:
- Children under 14 do not need a fishing license in either state.
- Children under 16 who live in certain states, including Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wisconsin, do not need a fishing license.
- A Texas resident born before September 1, 1930, does not need a fishing license in Texas or Oklahoma.
- Oklahoma residents born on or after January 1, 1923, upon reaching age 64 (or those who turn 64 during the calendar year) may purchase a Senior Citizen License which is good for the rest of their life. Oklahoma residents born before January 1, 1923, are exempt but must carry proof of age such as a driver’s license.
It’s important to always check the most up-to-date fishing regulations in both Texas and Oklahoma before heading out on the water. Regulations and fees are subject to change, and it’s crucial to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable laws and requirements.
In addition to the reciprocal agreement, Texas and Oklahoma have other border water agreements that allow anglers to fish in shared waters without purchasing a license from both states. For example, Texas residents can fish in Louisiana waters along the border without a Louisiana license, and vice versa.
When fishing in border waters, it’s important to be aware of the specific regulations and boundaries. In some cases, anglers may need to purchase a license from the state in which they are fishing, even if they are in a shared water body.
Overall, the reciprocal fishing agreement between Texas and Oklahoma provides a convenient option for anglers 65 and older to enjoy fishing in both states without the need for additional licenses. By understanding the specific requirements and exemptions, anglers can plan their fishing trips with confidence and ease.