Texas Hunting & Fishing Laws

The Lone Star State of Texas has thousands of acres of wild land full of hunting and fishing possibilities. Hunt javelina, deer and many species of birds, or drop a line in the water for crappie, bluegill or catfish. Know the current Texas laws and regulations prior to heading out for your adventure.

Hunting

Hunt for a deer.

Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPW) governs the hunting laws for the state. The 2009-2010 rules say that a hunting license is required for "any person, regardless of age, who hunts any animal, bird, frog or turtle in this state." Exceptions for this rule allow license-free hunting of "fur-bearing nuisance animals." Hogs and coyotes fall into this category. Resident licenses are available for any Texas residents. Non-residents must have a valid license when hunting on Texas land and may purchase five-day permits. Check for current regulations for species on your hunt at the Texas Parks and Wildlife website (see resources.)

Fishing

Fish for bass in Texas.

TPW also manages the fisheries in the state. According to the 2009-2010 rules for angling, a license is required "to take fish, mussels, clams, crayfish or other aquatic life in the public waters of Texas." A hunting license is needed for frogs and turtles, as stated in the TPW 2009-2010 rules. Residents of Texas under 17 years of age do not need a license. Non-residents need a license with tags for special species they wish to catch. Check the TPW website for rules regarding species. Bag limits and sizes are posted there as well.

Hunting/Fishing Combinations

Get out and enjoy the backcountry.

If you are a Texan, take advantage of the "Super Combo" license package (Type 111.) This allows both hunting and fishing for the full season in Texas. TPW also offers lifetime hunting and fishing licenses to residents. Lifetime licenses do not include federal duck stamps.