Texas is a state where fishing is not only a hobby, but a way of living for many. The state offers a wide range of fishing opportunities with its 600 miles coastline, numerous lakes and rivers. It is essential that you have a Texas fishing license if you plan to fish there. This guide will tell you everything you need about fishing licenses for Texas.
Who needs a fishing license in Texas?
You need a fishing permit if you are 17 or older, and you fish in public waterbodies in Texas. This applies to both residents of Texas and non-residents. A fishing license is not needed if you are fishing on your private land. Please note that anyone under the age of 13 is not required to possess a fishing licence in Texas.
Types of Texas Fishing Licenses
Texas offers different types of fishing permits depending on your age and residency status. You can also choose the duration of time you want to fish. Here are the different types of Texas fishing permits:
Resident Fishing License
Only Texas residents can obtain a resident fishing license. The license is valid for a year and can be renewed every year. A resident fishing permit costs $30 for freshwater and $35 for saltwater.
Non-Resident fishing license
Non-Texans can obtain a non-resident fishing permit. Non-resident fishing permits are valid for a year or shorter. A non-resident license costs $58 in freshwater and $63 in saltwater.
Senior Resident Fishing Licence
Texas residents over 65 can purchase a senior resident fishing permit. The license is valid one year and costs $12 for freshwater and $17 saltwater fishing.
One-Day Fishing License
You can fish for any species with a Texas one-day fishing permit. This license is only valid for the day it was purchased. A one-day fishing permit costs $11 and is valid for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Package Fishing License
A package license allows for fishing in freshwater and saltwater during a specified period of time, such as one day or a year. The cost of a fishing package license depends on the type and duration of the license.
Where to buy a fishing license in Texas
You can buy a Texas fishing licence online, by phone, or through an authorized agent. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) site offers online fishing license purchases. You can also purchase a fishing permit by calling TPWD 800-895-424. Agents authorized include local fishing tackle stores, sporting goods stores and department stores.
What is required to purchase a fishing license in Texas?
You will be asked to provide certain information when purchasing a fishing permit. This includes your name, date-of-birth, social security number, driving license or state identification card. If you are applying for resident fishing license, you will also have to provide proof of your residency.
Texas Fishing License Regulations
To avoid legal trouble, you must follow certain rules when fishing in Texas. Here are a few of them:
Bag Limits
Bag limits are the maximum amount of fish that you can catch in a day. In Texas, different water bodies have different bag limits. For some species it may be necessary to release the fish into the water after catching them, regardless of their size.
Size Limits
The size limits define the minimum size of certain fish species that must be returned to the water after being caught. The size limits are designed to protect the population of fish species in Texas’s water bodies.
Fishing Gear Regulations
Texas law requires that you use the correct fishing equipment and gear. Certain fish species may require special fishing gear or methods in order to avoid harming them.
Fishing without a license
In Texas, fishing without a permit is a Class C misdemeanor. Violations of fishing regulations can result in heavy fines and, in some cases, the cancellation of your fishing privileges.
The Benefits of a Texas Fishing License
A fishing license in Texas is not only required by law, but also has several benefits. Here are a few of them:
Protecting fish populations
You can contribute to the conservation of fish by having a fishing licence. The revenue collected from fishing licences is used to support programs that protect and conserve fish populations and habitats.
Access to Fishing Waters
A fishing license allows you to access public waters in Texas. You can fish in different water bodies and not worry about getting in trouble.
Participating in Fishing Competitions
A fishing license allows for you to take part in fishing tournaments in Texas. These tournaments allow you to show off your fishing skills while competing with other fishing enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Fishing is popular in Texas and those who take the sport seriously know how important it is to have a fishing licence. There are many different types of fishing licenses available in Texas. A fishing license allows you to comply with Texas regulations and contributes to conservation efforts for fish populations.