What Texas Fishing License Do I Need in 2024?

Fishing is a beloved pastime in Texas, offering anglers the opportunity to explore the state’s diverse waterways and experience the thrill of the catch. However, it’s crucial to understand the importance of obtaining the proper fishing licenses to ensure compliance with state regulations and contribute to the conservation efforts that sustain healthy fish populations.

Failure to possess a valid fishing license can result in significant fines and penalties, potentially damaging the delicate balance of Texas’s aquatic ecosystems. By purchasing a fishing license, you not only gain legal access to the state’s public waters but also play a vital role in supporting the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s initiatives, including fish stocking, habitat restoration, and law enforcement.

Who Needs a Fishing License 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. This requirement applies to all methods of fishing, including rod and reel, bow fishing, and even netting fish or baiting hooks.

However, there are some exceptions to the fishing license requirement in Texas:

• Anglers under the age of 17 do not need a license to fish in Texas.
• Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, do not need a license to fish in Texas.
• No license is required when fishing from banks or piers in Texas State Parks.
• No license is needed on Texas’s annual Free Fishing Day, which is the first Saturday in June.
• Texas residents with mental disabilities can fish license-free if supervised by a family member or someone authorized by the family who has a license. They can also fish license-free as part of a supervised medical therapy program.

Types of Texas Fishing Licenses and Packages

Texas offers a variety of fishing licenses and packages to cater to different fishing preferences and durations. Here are some of the most common options:

• Resident Fishing License: Required for Texas residents who fish in public waters. Exceptions include anglers under 17, residents born before January 1, 1931, and those with intellectual disabilities fishing under supervision.
• Non-Resident Fishing License: Required for non-residents who fish in Texas public waters. Exceptions include non-residents under 17, Louisiana residents 65 or older with a valid Louisiana Recreational Fishing License, and Oklahoma residents 65 or older.
• Freshwater Fishing Endorsement: Required to fish in public fresh waters.
• Saltwater Fishing Endorsement: Required to fish in public salt waters.
• All-Water Packages: Include a fishing license, freshwater endorsement, and saltwater endorsement with a red drum tag. Valid from the date of sale to August 31, 2024.
• Lifetime Licenses: Available to Texas residents for $1,000, allowing fishing anywhere in the state and keeping one trophy-sized drum each year.
• Lake Texoma License: Allows fishing in both the Texas and Oklahoma waters of Lake Texoma for $12 until December 31, 2024.
• Super Combo Hunting & All-Water Fishing Package: Free for resident active military personnel and veterans with a 50% disability rating or who have lost the use of a limb.

Where to Buy a Texas Fishing License

There are several ways to purchase a Texas fishing license, package, or endorsement:

• Online: The quickest option, allowing you to get licensed to fish instantly. You can print your permit or store it on your phone.
• In-person: Buy your license from any Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) office, hardware store, tackle shop, gun shop, or grocery store across the state.

Once you have your Texas fishing license, you must have it in your possession when fishing, be able to display an image of it on your phone, or show proof of purchase from the “Outdoor Annual” mobile app.

Fishing is a cherished pastime in Texas, but it’s essential to ensure you have the proper licenses and endorsements to fish legally and contribute to the state’s conservation efforts. By understanding the requirements and purchasing the appropriate licenses, you can enjoy the thrill of fishing while playing a vital role in protecting Texas’s aquatic resources for generations to come.