What You'll Pay for a Texas Fishing License

A Texas fishing license costs between $32 and $68 for a resident, depending on whether you want a freshwater-only license or one that covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Non-residents pay $63 to $98 for the same options. A one-day license costs $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents and covers either freshwater or saltwater, not both. These are the standard annual prices set by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), though prices can change year to year.

The license itself is valid for one year from the date you purchase it, not a calendar year. If you buy a license in March, it expires the following March. You can purchase a license online through the TPWD website, by phone, at a retail location like Academy Sports or Walmart, or at a Texas Parks and Wildlife office.

Key Takeaways

  • A resident freshwater-only license costs $32 annually, while a resident combination license (freshwater and saltwater) costs $68.
  • Non-residents pay $63 for freshwater-only and $98 for a combination license, both valid for one year from purchase.
  • One-day licenses are available for $20 (residents) or $25 (non-residents) and cover either freshwater or saltwater fishing.
  • You can buy a license online, by phone, at retail stores, or directly from a Texas Parks and Wildlife office.
  • Your license is valid for 12 months from the purchase date, not from January 1st.

Resident vs. Non-Resident License Prices

Texas residents pay less than non-residents for the same license type. A resident freshwater license is $32 per year, while a non-resident freshwater license is $63. If you want to fish in both freshwater and saltwater, a resident combination license runs $68, and a non-resident combination license is $98.

To count as a resident, you must have lived in Texas for at least 60 days when ready before buying your license. You'll need to provide proof of residency, such as a driver's license, utility bill, or lease agreement. If you're a non-resident but own property in Texas, you may still may have access to for resident rates—check the TPWD website or call 1-800-895-4248 to confirm your status before purchasing.

Short-Term License Options

If you're visiting Texas or don't fish regularly, a one-day license is simpler and cheaper than an annual one. A one-day resident license costs $20, and a one-day non-resident license costs $25. You choose either freshwater or saltwater when you buy it; you cannot fish both with a one-day license.

Texas also offers a 5-day license for non-residents at $40 for freshwater or $50 for saltwater. This option works well if you're planning a short fishing trip but need more than one day. Like the one-day license, you pick your water type at purchase and cannot switch between freshwater and saltwater.

Who Needs a License and Who Doesn't

Anyone 17 or older who fishes in Texas must have a valid license, with a few exceptions. You do not need a license if you fish from a public pier or jetty in a coastal area, or if you fish on private property with the owner's permission and you're using a rod and reel (not a net or trap). Children under 17 can fish without a license anywhere in the state.

If you hold a valid Texas hunting license, you can fish freshwater without buying a separate fishing license, but you still need a license to fish saltwater. Military members on active duty stationed in Texas may may have access to for a free license—contact TPWD directly to confirm may be able to access and request one.

Where to Buy Your License

The easiest way to buy a license is online through the TPWD website at tpwd.texas.gov. You can purchase any license type there, print it when ready, and start fishing the same day. The online system accepts credit and debit cards and takes about five minutes to complete.

You can also buy a license by phone at 1-800-895-4248, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. Retail locations like Academy Sports, Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, and local bait-and-tackle shops sell licenses in person. Texas Parks and Wildlife regional offices also sell licenses during business hours. If you buy in person, bring your ID and proof of residency if you're claiming resident status.

What Your License Covers

A freshwater license lets you fish in lakes, rivers, and streams across Texas. A saltwater license covers fishing in bays, the Gulf of Mexico, and coastal areas. A combination license covers both, so you can fish anywhere in the state without buying a second license.

Your license does not cover commercial fishing, netting, or trapping—those require separate permits. It also does not cover fishing on private land without the owner's permission, or fishing in areas closed by TPWD. Check the TPWD website or the current Texas Fishing Guide for specific rules about bag limits, size limits, and closed seasons for the fish you want to catch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish without a license if I'm visiting for just one day?

No, you need a license even for one day of fishing. A one-day license costs $20 for residents or $25 for non-residents and is the cheapest option for a short trip. You can buy it online and print it when ready.

Do I need a separate license for saltwater and freshwater fishing?

No, if you buy a combination license, you can fish both freshwater and saltwater with one license. A resident combination license costs $68 per year. If you only want to fish one type of water, you can save money by buying a freshwater-only or saltwater-only license instead.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Texas Parks and Wildlife regulations and can result in a fine. The penalty varies depending on the circumstances, but it is always cheaper to buy a license upfront than to pay a fine later.

Can I buy a license for someone else as a gift?

Yes, you can purchase a license online or in person for someone else. If buying online, you'll need their name and date of birth. They can print the license when ready or have it mailed to them, depending on the option you choose.

Does my Texas hunting license cover fishing?

A hunting license covers freshwater fishing only. If you want to fish saltwater, you still need to buy a saltwater license or a combination license. Check your hunting license to confirm it includes the freshwater fishing stamp.