What is the Minimum Age to Fish Without a License in Texas in 2024?

In the state of Texas, fishing is a popular pastime enjoyed by people of all ages. However, before you can cast your line into the public waters of the Lone Star State, you need to understand the fishing license requirements. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has specific regulations in place to ensure that everyone who fishes is properly licensed and following the rules.

Who Needs a Fishing License in Texas?

According to the TPWD, anyone 17 years of age or older who fishes in the public waters of Texas must have a valid fishing license. This includes residents and non-residents alike, regardless of whether you’re fishing from shore, a pier, or a boat. If you’re participating in fishing activities like netting fish, baiting hooks, or even holding a rod for someone else, you need a license.

Exceptions to the Fishing License Requirement

While the general rule is that anyone 17 or older needs a fishing license, there are some exceptions to this requirement in Texas:

Children under 17 years of age do not need a fishing license, whether they are Texas residents or non-residents.

Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, are exempt from the fishing license requirement.

Mentally disabled persons engaged in recreational fishing as part of medically approved therapy under supervision do not need a license.

Mentally disabled persons fishing under the direct supervision of a licensed angler who is a family member or has permission from the family do not need a license.

No one needs a license or stamp endorsement on Free Fishing Day, which is held each year on the first Saturday in June.

Fishing License Options in Texas

If you do need a fishing license in Texas, you have several options to choose from:

Freshwater fishing license: Allows you to fish in inland waters

Saltwater fishing license: Allows you to fish in coastal waters

All-water fishing license: Includes both freshwater and saltwater fishing privileges

You can purchase your Texas fishing license online, from a retailer, or at a TPWD law enforcement office. The license is valid from the date of purchase until August 31 of the same year.

Fishing in Texas State Parks

One notable exception to the fishing license requirement is when fishing within Texas State Parks. If you’re fishing on state park property or in waters completely enclosed by a state park, you don’t need a license. However, there are still some rules to keep in mind:

Fishing is allowed by pole-and-line only on man-made structures like docks and piers, with each person limited to two poles.

All other fishing regulations, such as length and bag limits, still apply.

Bow fishing is not allowed on state park property.

Fishing in Border Waters

Texas has reciprocal agreements with some neighboring states that allow anglers to fish shared waters without needing a second license. However, these agreements have specific limitations:

Texas residents over 65 can fish anywhere in Louisiana with a senior fishing license, while residents under 65 can only fish in border waters shared by both states.

Texas residents 65 and older can fish in Oklahoma without an Oklahoma license, but everyone else needs an Oklahoma license unless fishing Lake Texoma with a special Lake Texoma Fishing License.

Regardless of where you fish, it’s important to remember that any fish caught in public waters and brought ashore in Texas must adhere to the state’s protected length limits, daily bag limits, and possession limits.

In conclusion, while Texas has a minimum age requirement of 17 for fishing licenses, there are several exceptions to this rule. Children under 17, Texas residents born before 1931, and mentally disabled persons fishing under supervision are all exempt from the license requirement. By understanding the regulations and following the rules, anglers of all ages can enjoy the abundant fishing opportunities in the Lone Star State.