Texas Fishing Licenses: A Guide for Corpus Christi Anglers

Texas Fishing License FAQ: Rules, Rates, and Requirements

Navigating the licensing requirements for a fishing trip should be the easiest part of your journey. At JBG Outdoors, we want to ensure you spend your time focused on the rod in your hand rather than paperwork. Whether you are a Texas local or visiting the South Texas coast for the first time, having the correct credentials is essential for a legal and stress-free day on the water. This guide outlines everything you need to know to get licensed and ready for the Corpus Christi Bay system.

Who Needs a License?

In Texas, a valid fishing license is required for any person (resident or non-resident) who takes or attempts to take fish, mussels, clams, or other aquatic life from the public waters of the state. For our trips in Corpus Christi, this means you must have a license with a Saltwater Endorsement.

• Age Requirement: Anyone 17 years of age or older must possess a license.
• The Red Drum Tag: Your license (except for one-day options) typically includes one Red Drum Tag, which allows you to keep one "oversized" redfish (over 28 inches) per year.

Exemptions and Special Cases

Texas offers a few exceptions to help families and seniors get out on the water more easily:

• Youth: Anglers under 17 years old (residents and non-residents) do not need a fishing license.
• Seniors: Texas residents born before January 1, 1931, are exempt. Residents aged 65+ born after that date can purchase a discounted "Senior" license.
• Free Fishing Day: On the first Saturday in June each year, everyone can fish recreationally without a license in Texas public waters.

2025–2026 License Pricing

Below are the standard rates for the most common licenses used by our guests. Please note that prices are subject to change by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).

• Annual Saltwater Package

Resident: $35

Non-Resident: $63

• One-Day All-Water License

Resident: $11

Non-Resident: $16

• Senior Saltwater Package (65+)

Resident: $17

Non-Resident: N/A

• All-Water Package (Fresh + Salt)

Resident: $40

Non-Resident: $68

Pro Tip: For most travelers visiting for a single weekend, the One-Day All-Water License is the most cost-effective choice. It covers both salt and freshwater and includes a red drum tag for that specific day.

Saltwater vs. Freshwater Rules

Since JBG Outdoors operates primarily in the Upper Laguna Madre and Baffin Bay, a Saltwater Endorsement is mandatory. If you already have a "Freshwater" license, you can simply purchase a Saltwater "add-on" (endorsement) rather than a whole new license. If you plan to fish both the bays and inland lakes during your Texas stay, the All-Water Package is your best bet.

Where to Buy Your License

Getting your license is a quick process that can be done online or in person before you meet us at the dock:

1. Online: Visit the TPWD Official Site. You can show a digital copy of your license on your phone during our trip.
2. In Person: Available at most sporting goods stores (Academy Sports, Bass Pro Shops), large retailers (Walmart), and many local bait and tackle shops in Corpus Christi.
3. By Phone: Call TPWD at (800) 895-4248 during business hours.

We look forward to having you on board the 23' Shoalwater. If you have any questions about which license fits your specific itinerary, don't hesitate to ask when you book your fishing trip today.