You need a Texas fishing license if you want to fish in public waters of Texas.
This covers all legal means and methods used for taking fish.
All persons under 17 years of age, whether Texas residents or non-residents, are exempt from license requirements.
How do I report illegal fishing in Texas?
There are several ways that you can report illegal fishing in Texas. One such way is to visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s website at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/huntwild/index.htm or to call the non-emergency statewide law enforcement number at 800-792-4263.
You can also call the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Law Enforcement Information Center at 1-800-346-9408 or visit its website at http://www.dps.state.tx.us/dpsmedia/LEIC/index.htm.
Is it illegal to fish without a license in Texas?
A fishing license is required of anyone who fishes in the public waters of Texas. This includes all the legal means and methods used for taking fish from rod and reel to bow fishing. However, those under 17 years of age, whether Texas residents or non-residents, are exempt from license requirements.
What is the fine for fishing in Texas without a license?
Penalties for Fishing Violations For most Texas fishing rules, a violation will result in a citation with a fine of less than $500. Most violations may result in the suspension of fishing privileges for a period of time and/or require the payment of a small fee. If you receive a citation, call the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and you will be given a citation number. The citation number will be listed on your citation.
Do you need a fishing license in Texas for catch and release?
Yes, for the most part, you will need a fishing license for catch and release fishing. This is because most of the state parks do not permit the use of hooks or lures.
Free fishing applies to fishing in rivers and creeks, from bank or pier. You can also wade fish in the surf along the shore of our coastal states parks. You may be able to fish for free from a boat on lakes or ponds that are fully enclosed in a state park.
Can you fish from shore in Texas without a license?
If you’re fishing in a state park or an area designated by the state for fishing, you don’t need a Texas fishing license. The only license that is required is for commercial fishing.
Can you catch and release without a license in Texas?
According to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s General Fishing Regulations, “Any person who takes or attempts to take fish, mussels, clams, crayfish or other aquatic life in the public waters of Texas must have a current Texas fishing license with the appropriate endorsement.” Anyone who attempts to fish in Texas without a license is subject to a fine of up to $500.
Is catch and release fishing legal in Texas?
The general rule of thumb is that it is illegal to keep a fish that is caught and immediately released. However, there are exceptions to this, including if you are engaged in commercial fisheries, or if you are a licensed commercial fisherman. If you are not in possession of a fish, it is not considered to be legal, regardless of whether the fish was caught in a waterway or not.
Do I need a fishing license in Texas if I catch and release?
According to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s General Fishing Regulations, “Any person who takes or attempts to take fish, mussels, clams, crayfish or other aquatic life in the public waters of Texas must have a current Texas fishing license with the appropriate endorsement.” Anyone who attempts to fish in Texas must have the appropriate license.
