As a Texas resident aged 65 or older, you may be eligible for special fishing licenses and packages that offer significant savings compared to regular licenses. In 2024, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) offers several options tailored for senior anglers, including the Senior Freshwater Package, Senior Saltwater Package, and Senior All-Water Package.
Senior Freshwater Package
The Senior Freshwater Package is available to Texas residents who are at least 65 years old and were born on or after January 1, 1931. This package includes a resident fishing license and a freshwater endorsement, valid from the date of purchase until August 31, 2024. The fee for this package is $12.
Senior Saltwater Package
Similar to the Senior Freshwater Package, the Senior Saltwater Package is also available to Texas residents aged 65 and older who were born on or after January 1, 1931. This package includes a resident fishing license and a saltwater endorsement with a red drum tag, valid until August 31, 2024. The cost for this package is $17.
Senior All-Water Package
For seniors who enjoy fishing in both freshwater and saltwater, the Senior All-Water Package is the ideal choice. This package includes a resident fishing license, a freshwater endorsement, and a saltwater endorsement with a red drum tag, all valid until August 31, 2024. The fee for the Senior All-Water Package is $22.
It’s important to note that Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, do not need a fishing license at all. Additionally, seniors aged 65 and older who possess a valid Louisiana Recreational Fishing License (including the Senior Fish/Hunt License) can fish in Texas without needing a separate Texas license.
To purchase a senior fishing license or package, you can do so online through the TPWD website, by phone, or at authorized retailers across the state. When fishing, you must have your license in your possession or be able to display an image of it on your phone.
Texas has a wide variety of fishing opportunities, from the Gulf of Mexico to the state’s numerous lakes and rivers. By taking advantage of the senior fishing license options available in 2024, Texas residents aged 65 and older can enjoy the state’s abundant fishing resources at a discounted rate.