Fishing is a popular pastime in Texas, with its abundant lakes, rivers, and coastal waters teeming with diverse species. However, before casting your line, it’s crucial to understand the fishing license requirements in the Lone Star State. In Texas, a fishing license is required for anyone 17 years of age or older who fishes in public waters, covering all legal means and methods used for taking fish, from rod and reel to bow fishing.
Exemptions to the Texas Fishing License Requirement
While a fishing license is generally required, there are several exemptions to the rule:
- Persons under 17 years of age, whether Texas residents or non-residents, are exempt from license requirements.
- Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, are exempt from the fishing license requirement.
- 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.
- No fishing license is required when fishing from banks or piers within Texas State Parks.
- 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:
| 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.
Fishing in Texas is a beloved pastime, and understanding the license requirements is essential for anglers. By knowing the exemptions and the various license options available, you can enjoy the state’s abundant fishing resources while staying compliant with the law.