Texas Fishing License Guide (2026)

Texas requires a fishing license for anyone 17 years of age or older. TPWD offers freshwater, saltwater, and all-water packages.

17+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$40
Resident/yr
$58
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Resident All-Water Fishing
$40
Resident Freshwater Only
$30
Resident Saltwater Only
$35
Resident 1-Day All-Water
$11
Lifetime Super Combo
$1800

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Non-Resident All-Water
$58
Temporary 1-Day All-Water
$16
5-Day Non-Resident All-Water
$31

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior Super Combo (65+)
$32

Additional Stamps & Permits

Stamp Price Required?
Freshwater Stamp
Required with saltwater-only package to fish freshwater
$5 Optional
Saltwater Stamp
Required with freshwater-only package to fish saltwater
$5 Optional
Red Drum Tag
Free with saltwater license
Free Optional
See the complete Texas cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

TPWD License Portal ↗

Instant digital license
🏪

Retail Locations

Walmart, Academy Sports, local bait shops
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 1-800-895-4248
Explore all Texas purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
6
Free Fishing Day
All waters · First Saturday in June. All regulations apply.

License Validity

Texas licenses expire on August 31 each year, regardless of purchase date.

Full Texas free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 17 Exemption

Children under 17 do not need a fishing license in Texas.

Born Before 1931

Texans born before January 1, 1931 can fish without a license.

🎖️

Active Military on Leave

Active military members on leave may qualify for free licenses.

Disabled Veterans (60%+)

Veterans with 60%+ service-connected disability get free Super Combo license.

Full Texas exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$25–$ 500
Fine Range
misdemeanor
Offense Type

Class C Parks and Wildlife Code misdemeanor. Fines $25-$500.

Learn more about Texas fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to TPWD Online Licensing ↗

  2. 2

    Select Your License Type

    Choose between resident/non-resident, duration, and water type based on your needs.

  3. 3

    Complete Payment & Download

    Pay online and receive your digital license instantly. You may also print a physical copy.