In 2024, Texas has reciprocal fishing agreements with several neighboring states, allowing anglers to use their Texas fishing licenses in those jurisdictions without needing additional permits. These agreements aim to simplify the fishing experience for anglers who frequently cross state lines.
Reciprocal Fishing Agreements with Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Kansas
Texas currently has reciprocal fishing agreements with Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Kansas. These agreements allow anglers with valid Texas fishing licenses to fish in the bordering waters of these states without needing additional licenses from those states.
For example, the Texas-Oklahoma reciprocal agreement covers Lake Texoma, which straddles the border between the two states. Anglers with a valid Texas fishing license can fish anywhere on Lake Texoma without needing a separate Oklahoma fishing license.
Similarly, the Texas-Louisiana reciprocal agreement covers several border waters, including the Sabine River, Sabine Pass, and Caddo Lake. Anglers with a valid Texas fishing license can fish in these waters without needing a Louisiana fishing license.
The Texas-Kansas reciprocal agreement covers the Kiamichi River, which flows from Oklahoma into Kansas before joining the Red River in Texas. Anglers with a valid Texas fishing license can fish in the Kansas portion of the Kiamichi River without needing a Kansas fishing license.
Fishing License Requirements in Texas
In Texas, anyone aged 17 and over needs a valid fishing license to fish in public waters, regardless of whether they are a resident or non-resident. There are several types of fishing licenses available, including:
- Freshwater Fishing License
- Saltwater Fishing License
- Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing License (All-Water Package)
- Fishing Guide Licenses (Freshwater, Resident All-Water, Resident All-Water Paddle-craft, Non-resident All-Water, and Non-resident All-Water Paddle-craft)
- Lake Texoma License
There are also several exceptions to the fishing license requirement in Texas, such as:
- Anglers under the age of 17
- Texas residents born before January 1, 1931
- Anglers fishing from banks or piers in Texas State Parks
- Texas residents with intellectual disabilities fishing under certain conditions
Texas residents aged 65 and over can purchase a special resident fishing license for $12.
Where to Buy a Texas Fishing License
Texas fishing licenses can be purchased in several ways:
- Online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website
- By phone by calling (800) 895-4248 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday
- In person at over 1,800 approved retailers throughout the state, which can be found on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website
Once purchased, anglers must keep their fishing license with them while fishing, have a photo of it on their phone, or show proof of purchase using the Outdoor Annual mobile app.
By purchasing a Texas fishing license, anglers are supporting the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s efforts to maintain a productive and sustainable fishing environment for years to come.