Texas fishing guide

Welcome to your key source for all fishing-related information in Texas. Discover not only the prime fishing spots but also learn about the diverse species inhabiting these waters. Stay informed about the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in Texas

6806 spots
88 fish
33 lakes
15 rivers

Licenses for fishing in Texas

Exceptions apply to some groups, such as minors, seniors, and people with disabilities. For the most accurate and detailed information, and to purchase a fishing license online, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website and Texas.gov.

Category License Type Resident Price Non-Resident Price
Freshwater Packages Resident Freshwater Package $30 -
  Senior Freshwater Package (65+) $12 -
  Non-resident Freshwater Package - $58
Saltwater Packages Resident Saltwater Package $35 -
  Senior Saltwater Package (65+) $17 -
  Non-resident Saltwater Package - $63
All-Water Packages Resident All-Water Package $40 -
  Year-from-Purchase All-Water Package $47 -
  Senior All-Water Package (65+) $22 -
  Non-resident All-Water Package - $68
Special Licenses Special Resident All-Water (Blind) $7 -
One-Day All-Water License - $11 $16
Lake Texoma License - $12 $12

Fishing Regulations in Texas

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
  • Use of explosives, poisons, or electrical devices for fishing is illegal.
  • Fishing with nets, traps, or seines is restricted to specific permits and designated areas.
  • Use of live fish as bait is limited in certain waters to protect native species and prevent the spread of invasive species.
  • Snagging fish is not allowed except in designated areas during specific seasons.
  • Spearing and bowfishing are permitted for certain species in specified waters.
Catch Limits
  • Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, Striped, and White): Daily limits and size restrictions vary by lake and river.
  • Trout: Daily limit varies by area, often with a 5 fish limit and size restrictions.
  • Catfish (Channel, Blue, and Flathead): Daily limits and size restrictions vary by water body.
  • Crappie (White and Black): Daily limit of 25, with size restrictions in some areas.
  • Red Drum: Daily limit of 3, slot limit of 20-28 inches.
  • Flounder: Daily limit varies seasonally, with size restrictions.
  • Walleye: Daily limit varies, with size restrictions in some waters.
  • Panfish (Bluegill, Sunfish): No daily limit, no size limit.
  • Alligator Gar: Special regulations in certain areas, including a tag system and harvest limits.
  • Shark: Specific species regulations and limits, with certain species prohibited.
Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies
  • Access to some waters may be restricted for environmental conservation or public safety reasons.
  • Fishing on private property requires explicit permission from the landowner.
  • Special regulations for fishing in state parks and wildlife refuges.
  • No fishing zones enforced around certain infrastructures like dams and fish hatcheries.
  • Seasonal access restrictions in certain areas for fish spawning and habitat management.
Zones of Special Regulation
  • Catch-and-release areas for certain species, especially trout and bass.
  • Areas with gear restrictions, such as artificial lures only or fly fishing zones.
  • Slot limits for bass and other species in certain lakes and rivers.
  • Special regulations in waters with high fishing pressure or ecological sensitivity.
  • Trophy fisheries with enhanced size and bag limits in selected areas.
Protection of Rare Species
  • Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
  • Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive aquatic species.
  • Research fishing for rare species requires special permits.
  • Reporting accidental catches of rare species is important for conservation efforts.
  • Areas with significant ecological value may have additional fishing restrictions.
Seasonal Restrictions
  • Closed seasons for specific species during spawning or migration periods.
  • Ice fishing regulations, including shelter and gear restrictions, during winter months.
  • Seasonal closures in sensitive ecological areas for species protection and habitat restoration.
  • Temporary closures during environmental events or for population studies.
  • Special regulations for early and late fishing seasons in certain areas.
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