Both residents and visitors can apply for a saltwater fishing license in Texas, as long as certain qualifications and requirements are met. Senior licenses, lifetime licenses and combination packages are also available for interested applicants. Read the sections below to learn more about licenses to fish in the state.

Texas Resident Saltwater Fishing License

The process to buy saltwater fishing licenses in Texas is similar to getting a freshwater fishing license. You must be at least 17 years of age and show proof that you have resided in the state for at least six months. Resident fishing licenses are also part of combination packages. The TX Parks and Wildlife Department requires residents to present three different types of documents that prove residency, such as: your most recent utility bill, your current driving license, your tax return from the IRS, your car registration, your homestead property tax statement, etc. Read more in the “ How to Become a Licensed Fisherman eBook .”

Texas Nonresident Saltwater Fishing License

If you do not live in Texas, you can apply for an out-of-state saltwater fishing license instead, which is issued to those applicants who do not meet the qualifications of residency. A non resident fishing license can be obtained at any location where fishing licenses are sold in the state. You may also be able to purchase your TX fishing license by phone or online.

Texas Renew a Saltwater Fishing License

Although you are not technically required to renew a saltwater fishing license, you can apply for a new one with a licensed agent. There are roughly 1,700 locations across the state for you to purchase your saltwater license to fish from. Upon getting your new license, you may also choose to add select endorsements as part of your package.

Texas Replace a Saltwater Fishing License

Fishing permit holders with a lost license or a damaged license are required to obtain a duplicate, per the standard rules of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. As part of the process, you will need to fill out an Application for Replacement License and include your driver’s license number, your date of birth and other important information. You must also specify the type of license you purchased and need replaced.

Texas Military Saltwater Fishing License

If you are a resident of Texas who is currently serving in the military, you may purchase a saltwater fishing license with the proper documentation in hand. You must show proof of your military service orders, stating that your residential address is in Texas or that you have been stationed there for six months prior to applying.

Texas Senior Saltwater Fishing License

Senior residents can apply for one of the following fishing licenses: a Resident Senior Freshwater Fishing License, a Resident Senior Saltwater Fishing License or a Resident Senior All-Water Fishing License. Combination packages are also available. Take note that if your date of birth was before January 1, 1931, you are not required to get a fishing license.

Texas Lifetime Saltwater Fishing License

A lifetime saltwater fishing license is considered valid for the duration of the license holder’s life. In order to purchase a lifetime license, you can do so in one of three ways: in person, over the phone or online. If you would like to apply by phone, simply call the TXPWD at 1-800-792-1112. In person, you will need to visit a Texas Parks and Wildlife location to process your request.

Fees

Fees and costs associated with a license to saltwater fish may vary, depending on the type of package you would like to purchase, or if it is single licensing. Other factors may also affect the price of your fishing permit, such as whether you are a resident or visitor of the state. Lean more about the TX fishing license fees in the “How to Become a Licensed Fisherman eBook.”