As an avid angler, you may be wondering if you can use your Texas fishing license to fish in Oklahoma waters. The answer is not as straightforward as you might think, especially when it comes to Lake Texoma, which straddles the border between Texas and Oklahoma.
Texas Fishing License and Oklahoma Waters
In general, a Texas fishing license is valid only in Texas waters. If you have a Texas license and want to fish in Oklahoma, you will need to purchase an Oklahoma fishing license as well. This applies to all public waters in Oklahoma, including rivers, streams, and lakes.
However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if you are fishing from the Texas bank of the Red River, you can use your Texas license. But if you want to wade-fish or fish from a boat in the Oklahoma portion of the Red River, you will need an Oklahoma license.
Lake Texoma Fishing License
Lake Texoma is a unique case because it is located in both Texas and Oklahoma. To fish in Lake Texoma, you have a few options:
- If you have a Texas fishing license, you can fish only on the Texas side of Lake Texoma.
- If you have an Oklahoma fishing license, you can fish only on the Oklahoma side of Lake Texoma.
- If you want to fish in both Texas and Oklahoma waters of Lake Texoma, you need to purchase a Lake Texoma fishing license, which costs $12 and is valid until December 31, 2024.
The Lake Texoma fishing license allows you to fish anywhere on the lake without needing additional licenses from Texas or Oklahoma.
Exceptions and Exemptions
There are a few exceptions and exemptions to the Lake Texoma fishing license requirement:
- Children under 16 who live in certain states, including Texas and Oklahoma, do not need a license to fish in Lake Texoma.
- Texas residents born before September 1, 1930, do not need a fishing license to fish in Texas or Oklahoma.
- Oklahoma residents 64 or older can fish in all public Texas waters without a fishing license, but they will need an Oklahoma Senior Citizen License to fish in Oklahoma or the Oklahoma portion of Lake Texoma.
It’s important to note that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation strictly enforce fishing regulations. Game wardens regularly patrol Lake Texoma and may ask to see your license.
Buying a Lake Texoma Fishing License
You can purchase a Lake Texoma fishing license online from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation website. You can also buy a license at many retail stores near Lake Texoma, such as Walmart, Academy Sports Outdoors, and local tackle shops.
When buying your license, make sure to specify that you need a “Lake Texoma” fishing license (Type 208). This will ensure that you are purchasing the correct license for fishing in both Texas and Oklahoma waters of the lake.
In conclusion, while a Texas fishing license is generally valid only in Texas waters, there are some exceptions and special considerations when it comes to fishing in Lake Texoma. To avoid any confusion or legal issues, it’s best to purchase a Lake Texoma fishing license if you plan to fish in both Texas and Oklahoma portions of the lake.