You do not need a fishing license inside Brazos Bend State Park

Texas Parks and Wildlife exempts anglers fishing from the bank or a pier inside a state park from the standard fishing license requirement. This applies at Brazos Bend State Park's lakes, including Elm Lake and 40 Acre Lake.

The park occasionally offers ranger-led fishing programs at the park's fishing pier. Check the TPWD events calendar at tpwd.texas.gov for upcoming dates and availability.

If you fish in any waters outside the park, including the Brazos River itself, you need a valid Texas fishing license. Buy one at tpwd.texas.gov or at a local sporting goods store.