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If you plan to cast a line in Texas waters, it’s important to know the state’s fishing license requirements. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, licenses are generally required for anyone aged 17 or older when in public waters. However, there are key exceptions and various options to fit your needs. This guide will walk you through who needs a license, the exceptions, what kind of licenses are available, and how to obtain one so you can enjoy your time on the water worry-free.
Is a Fishing License Required in Texas?
Yes, licenses are required for anyone age 17 years or older, including residents, when fishing in public waters. However, they are not required in certain circumstances, like on Free Fishing Day or in Texas State Parks, as long as you pay the park entry fee.
Who Needs a Fishing License?
Anyone over the age of 17 is required to have a license when fishing in public waters outside of state parks, including catching bass, ice fishing, and even mussels, clams, and crayfish. Whether you’re a resident Texan or not doesn’t affect the rule.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are some exceptions to the rule, as follows.
Texas State Parks
Licenses are not required within the boundaries of all Texas State Parks, regardless of age or residency status. Be sure you are in a state park, not a federal, county, or other park, and you must be within the boundaries—this usually means casting your line from shores or piers. You can fish from a boat, but only if the water is completely enclosed within the park’s boundaries.
When you head to the water, bring along a small solar generator to keep your devices charged, play music, and run lights if you like to arrive early or stay late. The EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus is the best solar generator for fishing because it’s powerful with a capacity of 286Wh, yet it’s compact enough to carry with you in a backpack.
Under 17
Anglers under 17 are not required to have licenses whether or not they are resident Texans.
Those Born Before Jan 31, 1931
Texans born before January 1, 1931, are exempt from licensing requirements. Residents who are 65 years of age and older but born after that date can purchase a discounted Senior Resident Fishing License.
Free Fishing Day
On the first Saturday in June, anyone can fish in any public waterway without a license.
Shared Borders
Louisiana residents 65 or older with a valid Louisiana Recreational Fishing License and Oklahoma residents 65 or older can legally fish in waters on a shared border.
Medical Therapy
A person with an intellectual disability under the supervision of personnel approved or employed by a hospital, residence, or school for people with intellectual disabilities can fish without licensing if it has been approved as part of their medical therapy.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Texas
- Resident freshwater, saltwater, or all-water
- Non-resident freshwater, saltwater, or all-water
- Year-from-purchase all-water package for residents only
- One-day all-water for residents
- One-day all-water for non-residents
How to Obtain a Fishing License for Texas
Online
You can visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) online to purchase digital licenses and those that require printing.
After you get your license, pack your gear and hit the water. Don’t forget a power source to keep your devices charged. The perfect size generator for outdoor activities is compact and lightweight to fit in a backpack or on a small boat. The EcoFlow RIVER 3 has 245Wh capacity to recharge your devices and run some lights, but it will easily fit in your backpack.
Thinking of a multi-day trip? No worries, the EcoFlow RIVER 3 + 45W comes with a compact and lightweight 45W portable solar panel, so you can recharge it quickly when the sun shines.
Another essential piece of gear is a portable refrigerator that you can use to store your catch and keep it at food-safe temperatures even in hot weather. The EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator is the size of a standard cooler and lasts wirelessly for up to 40 hours on a charge. It has a separate fridge and freezer section, though you can remove the divider and make it all a fridge to fit those bigger catches. Catch still too big to fit? No problem! It even has a built-in icemaker, so you can make ice to keep the big ones chilled.
Retailers
There are numerous retailers throughout the state where you can buy licenses in person. You can search for a retailer near you on Texas Parks and Wildlife’s website by entering the name of your city in their search bar.
TPWD Headquarters
Some specialty and commercial licenses can only be bought at the TPWD Headquarters at 4200 Smith School Road in Austin, TX. However, this is not for purchasing standard resident and non-resident licenses.
Why Can’t You Fish Without a License?
Legal Requirements
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department requires all residents and non-residents to have valid licenses for each type of water (e.g., freshwater, saltwater, or all-water) to fish in public waters. You may face fines, jail time, and equipment forfeiture if caught catching fish without one.
Conservation
Fees are used for fish research, conservation, and restoration programs so that we can continue enjoying the sport. It also helps fund law enforcement to crack down on illegal catches.
Funding Angler’s Education Programs
Some of the money goes to help fund education programs for anglers as part of the conservation programs to help protect fish stocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can only fish without a license if you are under 17 years old, within the boundaries of a Texas State Park, born before January 31, 1931, or on Free Fishing Day on the first Saturday in June.
In Texas, if you’re caught catching fish without a license, you can be fined $25 to $10,000, receive potential jail time of up to 2 years, suspension or revocation of licenses, forfeiture of equipment used to fish, and in some cases, you may be forced to pay restitution.
Yes, you can have your license on your phone using the Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Outdoor Annual mobile app or by showing a photograph of it. The only exception is any activity that requires physical tags or stamps.
Final Thoughts
Fishing in Texas is a fun and rewarding experience, but understanding the licensing rules is essential to stay compliant with the law. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, ensure you have the appropriate licenses for residents or non-residents in freshwater, saltwater, or all-water classes before heading out. For added convenience when on the water, consider packing the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus solar generator to keep your gear and devices charged. With the right preparation, you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the great outdoors and reeling in your next big catch!