Do You Need a Fishing License to Fish from the Bank in Texas State Parks in 2024?

Fishing is a popular pastime in Texas, with the state offering a diverse array of fishing opportunities, from the Gulf of Mexico to its many lakes and rivers. However, before casting your line, it’s important to understand the fishing license requirements in the Lone Star State, especially when it comes to fishing from the bank in Texas State Parks.

Fishing License Requirements in Texas

In general, anyone aged 17 and over needs a valid fishing license to fish in the public waters of Texas, regardless of whether they are a resident or non-resident. This applies to fishing from the bank, pier, or boat, and includes activities such as netting fish, baiting hooks, and even holding a rod for a few seconds.

There are a few exceptions to this rule, including:

• Anglers under the age of 17 do not need a license.
• Texas residents born before January 1, 1931 are exempt from license requirements.
• Texas residents who are 65 years of age and older and were born after January 1, 1931 may purchase a Senior Resident Fishing License.
• Texas residents with intellectual disabilities may fish license-free if supervised by a family member or as part of a medically approved therapy program.

Fishing in Texas State Parks

One notable exception to the fishing license requirement is for visitors to Texas State Parks. Anglers of all ages, both residents and non-residents, can fish without a license when fishing from the bank or pier within the boundaries of a Texas State Park.

To take advantage of this exemption, you must be fishing within the designated boundaries of a Texas State Park, which are marked by the square green Texas Parks and Wildlife logo at the park entrance. It’s important to note that not all public recreation areas are State Parks, so be sure to look for the official logo before assuming you can fish without a license.

If you plan to fish in a park managed by a city, county, river authority, the Corps of Engineers, or any other entity, you will need a valid fishing license.

Obtaining a Texas Fishing License

If you don’t fall under one of the exemptions mentioned above, you’ll need to purchase a fishing license to fish in Texas. Licenses can be obtained in several ways:

• Online: You can purchase a license instantly online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) website.
• In-person: Licenses are available at TPWD offices, as well as many hardware stores, tackle shops, gun shops, and grocery stores across the state.

The cost of a Texas fishing license varies depending on the type of license you need. Some of the most common options include:

• Freshwater License (Year): $30 for residents, $47 for non-residents.
• All-Water License (Year): $40 for residents, $63 for non-residents.
• Lake Texoma License: $12 for a license valid until December 31 of the year purchased.
• Super Combo Hunting & All-Water Fishing Package: Free for resident active military personnel and veterans with a 50% disability rating or who have lost the use of a limb.

Licenses purchased now will expire on August 31, 2024.

Border Waters and Special Licenses

Texas shares borders with several states, each with its own fishing regulations. In some cases, special licenses or rules apply when fishing in border waters:

• Texas-Arkansas: In Arkansas waters of the Red River, the requirements of that state apply.
• Texas-Oklahoma: A person may fish in Texas or Oklahoma waters on Lake Texoma only with the appropriate license from Texas or Oklahoma, unless the person possesses a Lake Texoma fishing license.
• Texas-Louisiana: Residents of either state, who are properly licensed in their state (or are exempt because of age), or persons who hold valid non-resident fishing licenses issued by either state may fish in any portion of the lakes and rivers forming a common boundary between Louisiana and Texas inland from a line across Sabine Pass between Texas Point and Louisiana Point.
• Texas-Mexico: A recreational fishing license or Permiso de Pesca Deportiva is required to fish in Mexican waters.

It’s important to familiarize yourself with these special rules and licenses before fishing in border waters to ensure compliance with the law.

In conclusion, while Texas generally requires a fishing license for anglers aged 17 and over, there are several exceptions to this rule, including fishing within the boundaries of Texas State Parks. By understanding the license requirements and exemptions, anglers can enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities while staying on the right side of the law.