Texans can fish without a license in any public waterway on Saturday, as part of an effort by Texas Parks and Wildlife to promote the state’s resources.
Kicking off National Fishing and Boating Week, TPWD and other organizations around the state are hosting a series of events, including Free Fishing Day.
“It’s a great opportunity for those who have never fished, or fish very little, to just go out and do it,” TPWD inland fisheries biologist Mukhtar Farooqi said. “You don’t need anything else other than fishing rod and bait, and that would be it.”
Farooqi said the event drives license sales after people enjoy their experience and develop more interest. The revenue generated by license sales, which start at $30, gets put back towards projects around the state.
“Fishing license sales go towards supporting natural resource conservation, some of the things you see here out at the lake, all of that money goes back into the resource, improve the fishing, improve access, and the more people you have taking part in that activity, the more is raised,” Farooqi added. He said money from taxes on fuel and fishing equipment also contribute to revenue.
The agency compiled a list of 10 ways families can celebrate Free Fishing Day, like competing in tournaments, exploring new waterways, or becoming a certified instructor.
“You never forget when you go fishing with somebody, it always promotes a memory.” Duke Kinley said. Kinley loads up on his motorboat a few times a week and fishes on Central Texas lakes.
Fishing is free year-round at every Texas State Park.
Anglers must still adhere to size and bag limits. Entry fees for certain bodies of water may still apply. For a list of where to fish in Texas public waters, click here.
