If you’re an avid angler looking to fish in the saltwater of Texas, you’ll need to purchase a saltwater fishing license. The cost of a saltwater fishing license in Texas varies depending on your residency status and age. In this article, we’ll break down the different types of saltwater fishing licenses available in Texas and their associated costs.
Resident Saltwater Fishing License Packages
If you’re a Texas resident, you have two options for saltwater fishing licenses:
- Resident Saltwater Package: This package is available to Texas residents and costs $35 in 2024.
- Senior Saltwater Package: Texas residents who are 65 years of age or older can purchase this package for $17.
Both of these packages include a fishing license, a saltwater endorsement, and a red drum tag.
Non-Resident Saltwater Fishing License Package
If you’re not a Texas resident, you’ll need to purchase the Non-Resident Saltwater Package. This package costs $63 in 2024.
The Non-Resident Saltwater Package includes a non-resident fishing license, a saltwater endorsement, and a red drum tag.
Where to Purchase a Saltwater Fishing License in Texas
You have several options when it comes to purchasing a saltwater fishing license in Texas:
- Online: You can buy your saltwater fishing license online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.
- By Phone: Call (800) 895-4248 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to purchase your saltwater fishing license over the phone.
- In-Person: Visit one of the over 1,800 approved retailers located throughout Texas to buy your saltwater fishing license in person. You can find the closest retailer on the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.
Once you have purchased your saltwater fishing license, you must keep it with you while fishing in Texas saltwater.
Additional Considerations
In addition to your saltwater fishing license, you may need to purchase additional tags or endorsements depending on your fishing activities:
- Red Drum Tag: If you plan to keep a redfish longer than 28 inches, you’ll need a red drum tag. These cost $3 each, but they’re included in saltwater and all-water packages, as well as one-day licenses, lifetime licenses, and saltwater endorsements.
- Saltwater Endorsement: If you have a freshwater fishing license, you can add a saltwater endorsement for $10 to fish in both freshwater and saltwater.
The fees collected from Texas fishing license sales support conservation efforts that help make Texas one of the best places in the country to fish and ensure that future generations of anglers can enjoy the same incredible fishing opportunities.
In conclusion, the cost of a saltwater fishing license in Texas in 2024 ranges from $17 for Texas resident seniors to $63 for non-residents. By purchasing a saltwater fishing license, you’re not only legally allowed to fish in Texas saltwater but also contributing to the conservation efforts that keep Texas fishing great.