Public Freshwater Fishing Usually Needs Two Things

Most people who fish in Texas public fresh water need two items. They need a current fishing license and a freshwater endorsement. TPWD fishing packages put both items together. That covers the license part of a trip to the Trinity River or a public lake. Each body of water may still have its own bag, size, gear, or closure rules.

Do not guess about age exceptions. Anglers under 17 and Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, are two examples. A resident who is 65 or older and is not exempt can buy a senior package. TPWD's live license page carries the current packages; an old fee chart may not.