Understanding Texas Fishing License Requirements

In Texas, anyone aged 17 and older is generally required to have a valid fishing license to fish in public waters. This applies to both residents and non-residents. However, there are several exceptions to this rule, including age-based exemptions.

Age-Based Exemptions

One of the most significant exceptions to the fishing license requirement in Texas is for individuals under the age of 17. Residents and non-residents under the age of 17 do not need a fishing license to fish in public waters in Texas.

This means that 14-year-olds, whether residents or non-residents, are exempt from the fishing license requirement in Texas.

Other age-based exemptions include:

  • Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, do not need a fishing license.
  • Non-resident anglers aged 65 and older from Louisiana and Oklahoma are exempt from the fishing license requirement in Texas, provided they have a valid fishing license from their home state.

Exceptions for Individuals with Disabilities

Texas also provides exceptions for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Specifically:

  • Individuals with intellectual disabilities fishing as part of a medically approved therapy program do not need a fishing license, provided they carry an authorization identifying the sponsoring entity.
  • Individuals with intellectual disabilities fishing under the direct supervision of a licensed angler who is either a family member or has permission from the family are also exempt from the fishing license requirement.

It’s important to note that while these exceptions exist, all other anglers aged 17 and older must possess a valid fishing license when fishing in public waters in Texas.

Types of Texas Fishing Licenses

For those who do require a fishing license, Texas offers several options to cater to different needs and preferences. These include:

Freshwater Fishing Licenses

  • Resident Freshwater Fishing License Package: $30
  • Non-Resident Freshwater Fishing License Package: $58
  • Resident Senior (65+) Freshwater Fishing License Package: $12

Saltwater Fishing Licenses

  • Resident Saltwater Fishing License Package: $35
  • Non-Resident Saltwater Fishing License Package: $63
  • Resident Senior (65+) Saltwater Fishing License Package: $17

All-Water Fishing Licenses

For those who plan to fish in both freshwater and saltwater bodies, Texas offers all-water fishing licenses:

  • Resident All-Water Fishing License Package: $40
  • Non-Resident All-Water Fishing License Package: $68
  • Resident Senior (65+) All-Water Fishing License Package: $22

Additionally, Texas offers special licenses for legally blind residents, one-day licenses, and fishing guide licenses.

Bold Formatting: It's important to note that all fishing licenses in Texas are valid from the date of purchase until August 31 of the same year, with the exception of the "Year-from-Purchase All-Water Fishing License," which is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Purchasing Your Texas Fishing License

Obtaining a fishing license in Texas is a straightforward process, with several convenient options available:

  1. Online Purchase: You can buy your fishing license online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.
  2. Local Retailers: Many local retailers, such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and even some grocery stores, sell fishing licenses.
  3. By Phone: You can also purchase your fishing license by calling the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at 1-800-895-4248.

Once you have your license, you must keep it with you whenever you’re fishing, have a photo of it on your phone, or show proof of purchase using the Outdoor Annual mobile app.