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Get an Texas Fishing License

Texas stands out as one of the country's premier fishing destinations. Dive into its rich fishing experiences by securing your Texas fishing license!

Texas

Texas Fishing License Requirements

If you're 16 or older and want to fish in Texas public waters, you'll need the appropriate license:

  • Standard License: Allows you to use all legal methods, from rod and reel to bow fishing.

  • Endorsements:

    • Freshwater: Needed if you plan to fish or aim to fish in Texas freshwater.
    • Saltwater: Needed if you plan to fish in Texas public saltwater.

Fishing License Exemptions

Several groups are exempt from the licensing requirement:

  • Visitors to Texas state parks.
  • Individuals fishing in private waters.
  • Residents born before January 1, 1931.
  • Persons with an intellectual disability fishing under medically approved therapy.
  • Persons with an intellectual disability fishing with a licensed angler.
  • Individuals fishing on Texas’ free fishing day.

Types of Fishing Licenses and Fees

Determine residency: A resident has lived in Texas continuously for over six months before purchasing.

Freshwater:

  • Texas Resident: $30.
  • Texas Resident Senior: $12.
  • Non-resident: $58.

Saltwater:

  • Texas Resident: $35.
  • Texas Resident Senior: $17.
  • Non-resident: $63.

All-Water Package: Includes both freshwater and saltwater endorsements. Valid from the date of sale until August 31 (end of the Texas license year).

Lifetime License: Only available to residents, costs $1,000, and includes both endorsements.

All fees go toward conservation efforts, maintaining Texas as a premier fishing destination.

Where to Buy Your Fishing License

  1. Online: Available at the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.
  2. Phone: Call (800) 895-4248, available from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Monday through Friday).
  3. Retailer: Over 1,800 approved vendors are scattered across the state. Use the Texas Parks and Wildlife website to locate the closest one.

Note: Always have your license accessible while fishing, whether as a physical copy, on your phone, or via the “Outdoor Annual” mobile app.

Always remember to fish ethically and responsibly. Abide by the state regulations to ensure the conservation and sustainability of fishing for future generations.