What Age Do You Need a Fishing License in Texas 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 a line, it’s important to understand the fishing license requirements in the Lone Star State. In 2024, Texas residents and non-residents alike must possess a valid fishing license if they wish to fish in the state’s public waters, with a few notable exceptions.

Who Needs a Fishing License in Texas?

According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), anyone 17 years of age or older must have a fishing license to fish in Texas public waters. This includes both Texas residents and non-residents, and covers all legal methods of fishing, from rod and reel to bow fishing.

Exceptions to the Texas Fishing License Requirement

While most anglers 17 and older must purchase a fishing license, there are several exceptions to the rule:

Texas residents born before January 1, 1931 are exempt from the fishing license requirement.
Resident and non-resident youth under the age of 17 do not need a fishing license.
Texas residents with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities can fish license-free when engaged in recreational fishing as part of medically approved therapy under supervision, or when supervised by a licensed family member or authorized person.
Anglers fishing from banks or piers in Texas State Parks do not need a license.
Everyone can fish license-free on Texas’s annual Free Fishing Day, which is typically held on the first Saturday in June.

Types of Texas Fishing Licenses

For those who do need a fishing license, Texas offers several options to choose from, depending on your residency status and fishing preferences:

Freshwater License: Allows fishing in Texas’ fresh waters.
Saltwater License: Permits fishing in Texas’ public saltwater.
All-Water License: Includes both freshwater and saltwater fishing privileges.
Lifetime Fishing License: Available only to Texas residents, this license is valid for the holder’s lifetime and includes both freshwater and saltwater endorsements.

Prices for these licenses vary based on residency status and age. For example, in 2024, a Texas resident can purchase a year-long freshwater license for $30, while a non-resident will pay $58. Senior Texas residents (65 and older) can get a freshwater license for just $12.

Purchasing a Texas Fishing License

There are several convenient ways to purchase a Texas fishing license in 2024:

Online: Licenses can be purchased through the TPWD website or the Outdoor Annual mobile app.
Retailers: Many sporting goods stores, bait shops, and other retailers sell Texas fishing licenses.
By Phone: Anglers can call 1-800-TX LIC 4 U (1-800-895-4248) to purchase a license over the phone.

Once you have your license, it’s important to keep it with you while fishing, either in physical form or by displaying an image on your phone.

Fishing Interstate Waters

Texas has reciprocal fishing agreements with some neighboring states, allowing anglers to fish shared waters without purchasing a second license. However, these agreements often have limitations:

Louisiana: Texas residents 65 and older can fish anywhere in Louisiana with a Texas senior fishing license. Residents under 65 can fish in Louisiana waters that span the state border, such as Sabine River, Sabine Pass, Sabine Lake, Caddo Lake, and Toledo Bend Reservoir.
Oklahoma: Only Texas residents 65 and older can fish in Oklahoma without an Oklahoma license, and vice versa. Everyone else needs an Oklahoma license to fish in the state, with the exception of Lake Texoma, which requires a special Lake Texoma Fishing License.

It’s important to check the specific regulations and agreements for any interstate waters you plan to fish.

In conclusion, while most anglers 17 and older must purchase a fishing license to fish in Texas public waters in 2024, there are several exceptions and options available. By understanding the requirements and choosing the appropriate license, anglers can enjoy the many fishing opportunities the Lone Star State has to offer.