Is Slingshot Fishing Legal in Texas in 2024?

In Texas, the legality of slingshot fishing is a topic of interest for many anglers. As we approach 2024, it’s important to understand the current regulations and guidelines surrounding this unique fishing method. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of slingshot fishing in the Lone Star State.

Fishing License Requirements

To engage in slingshot fishing in Texas public waters, anglers must possess a valid fishing license. This can be a freshwater, saltwater, or all-water license package. No additional stamp or license is required specifically for slingshot fishing. However, there are some exceptions to the fishing license requirement:

• Individuals under the age of 17 are not required to have a fishing license.
• Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, are exempt from the fishing license requirement.

It’s important to note that a hunting license is required to take turtles and frogs using a slingshot.

Legal Equipment for Slingshot Fishing

In Texas, a variety of archery equipment is legal for fishing, including slingshots. Fish may be taken using a longbow, recurved bow, compound bow, or crossbow. While slingshots are not explicitly mentioned in the regulations, they are generally considered legal for fishing purposes, as long as they are used in a safe and responsible manner.

Permitted Fish Species

Slingshot fishing in Texas is primarily used to target non-game fish species. These include gar, buffalo, mullet, and sheepshead. Anglers are allowed to use slingshots to take any fish species that is not listed as a game fish or an endangered/threatened species.

It’s important to note that there are some restrictions and exceptions regarding certain non-game fish species:

• Alligator gar have a daily bag limit of one per day statewide, with some exceptions.
• On Lady Bird Lake in Austin, there is a daily limit of one trophy-sized common carp (33 inches or more) when taken by bow fishing.
• Some non-game fish species in saltwater have specific limits.

Any fish that is edible or can be used as bait, including all gar species, common carp, and buffalo, may not be released after being taken by bow fishing.

Restricted Areas for Slingshot Fishing

While slingshot fishing is generally permitted in Texas coastal waters, rivers, and large lakes, there are some areas where this method is not allowed:

• Community Fishing Lakes (public impoundments of 75 acres or less, located within city or county parks)
• Lakes lying entirely within the boundaries of a Texas state park, or anywhere on state park property

Additionally, other government entities may have their own rules and regulations regarding bow fishing on properties they own or manage. It’s always a good idea to check with local authorities before engaging in slingshot fishing within city limits or at any lakeside park.

Slingshot Hunting in Texas

While slingshot fishing is generally permitted in Texas, the legality of slingshot hunting is a different matter. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Hunting Regulations, slingshots are not listed as a legal means for taking game animals. This means that using a slingshot to hunt game animals is not allowed in Texas.

However, there is some ambiguity regarding the use of slingshots for hunting non-game animals or pests. The TPWD regulations state that “Nongame Animals (Non-Protected) may be hunted with any lawful firearm, pellet gun, or other air gun”. While slingshots are not explicitly mentioned, they could potentially fall under the category of “other air gun” for hunting non-game animals. It’s best to consult with local authorities or the TPWD for clarification on the specific regulations in your area.

In conclusion, slingshot fishing is generally legal in Texas, as long as anglers follow the proper licensing requirements, target non-game fish species, and avoid restricted areas. However, the legality of slingshot hunting is more complex and varies depending on the specific animal being targeted. As always, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance with the law.