Fishing is a popular pastime in Texas, with its abundant lakes, rivers, and coastal waters teeming with diverse species. However, before you can cast your line, it’s crucial to understand the fishing license requirements in the Lone Star State. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore who is exempt from needing a fishing license in Texas and provide you with all the information you need to ensure you’re fishing legally and responsibly in 2024.
Age Requirements for a Texas Fishing License
In Texas, the age requirement for obtaining a fishing license is straightforward: anyone 17 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license to fish in public waters. This rule applies to both residents and non-residents alike.
Exceptions to the Age Requirement
While the general rule states that anyone 17 and older needs a fishing license, there are a few exceptions to this requirement:
- Minors under 17: Anglers under the age of 17, whether residents or non-residents, are exempt from needing a fishing license to fish in Texas.
- Senior Exemption: Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, are exempt from the fishing license requirement.
- Disability Exemption: Individuals with an intellectual disability can fish without a license if they are part of a medically approved therapy program under supervision or if fishing under the direct supervision of a licensed angler who is a family member.
- State Park Exemption: No fishing license is required when fishing from banks or piers within Texas State Parks.
- Free Fishing Day: On the annual Free Fishing Day in Texas (the first Saturday in June), a license is not required for anyone to fish.
It’s important to note that these exemptions are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) website for the most up-to-date information.
Types of Texas Fishing Licenses
If you do need to purchase a fishing license in Texas, there are several options available depending on whether you plan to fish in freshwater, saltwater, or both. Here are the main types of fishing licenses in Texas for 2024:
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Senior Resident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freshwater License-Year | $30.00 | $58.00 | $12.00 |
| Saltwater License-Year | $35.00 | $63.00 | $17.00 |
| All-Water License-Year | $40.00 | $68.00 | $22.00 |
| Year-From-Purchase All-Water | $47.00 | N/A | N/A |
| One-Day All-Water License | $11.00 | $16.00 | N/A |
| Freshwater Endorsement | $5.00 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Saltwater Endorsement | $10.00 | $10.00 | $10.00 |
To legally fish in Texas, you need both a “license” and an “endorsement,” which usually come as a combined “package.” You can choose either freshwater or saltwater, or get both together in an All-Water Package. Once you have a license, you can always add an extra endorsement instead of buying a whole new package.
License-Year Packages always expire on August 31, meaning that if you buy one in July, it’s only valid for a month or so. The Year-From-Purchase All-Water Package is different, lasting until the end of the month you bought it the following year. They’re only available for residents, though.
Don’t fish that often? The One-Day All-Water License lets you fish fresh and saltwater on the day of your choice. You can also buy several at once if you’re planning a longer adventure.
Red Drum Tags
In order to keep a Redfish longer than 28 inches, you need to have a Red Drum Tag. These cost $3 each, but they’re included in Saltwater and All-Water Packages, as well as One-Day Licenses, Lifetime Licenses, and Saltwater Endorsements. In short, you only actually have to buy them if you’re exempt from needing a license or if you want to keep a second trophy-sized Drum.
Special Licenses and Packages
As well as the standard mix of licenses, endorsements, and packages, Texas offers a few special options for anglers:
- Lifetime Licenses: These licenses are valid for the lifetime of the license holder and are available for residents only. They include the Lifetime Resident Hunting and Fishing License Package, the Lifetime Resident Freshwater Fishing Package, and the Lifetime Resident Saltwater Fishing Package.
- Disabled Veteran Licenses: Texas residents who are honorably discharged veterans with a service-connected disability of 50% or greater are eligible for a free Disabled Veteran Hunting and Fishing License Package.
- Resident Disabled Hunting and Fishing License: Texas residents who are legally blind or have certain physical or intellectual disabilities are eligible for a discounted Resident Disabled Hunting and Fishing License.
These special licenses and packages are subject to eligibility requirements and may require additional documentation or proof of disability or veteran status.
Fishing License Enforcement
It’s important to note that Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) game wardens actively enforce fishing license requirements. Anglers who are found fishing without a valid license may face fines and penalties. The fine for fishing without a license can range from $25 to $500, plus court costs.
To avoid any issues, always make sure you have a valid fishing license (or are exempt from needing one) before you go fishing in Texas. You can purchase licenses online, by phone, or from authorized retailers such as sporting goods stores, bait shops, and some grocery stores.
Conclusion
Fishing is a beloved pastime in Texas, and with a little knowledge of the licensing requirements, you can enjoy it legally and responsibly. Remember, anyone 17 and older needs a valid fishing license to fish in public waters, with a few key exceptions. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different types of licenses and packages available, and always keep your license with you while fishing.
By following the rules and regulations set forth by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, you can help protect the state’s precious natural resources and ensure that fishing remains a fun and rewarding activity for generations to come. Happy fishing!