Texas Fishing Season and Limits for 2025–2026 by Month – Species, Licenses & Hotspots
If there is one thing that Texas excels at, it is fishing. Whether you’re a weekend warrior casting for largemouth bass or a saltwater fanatic seeking prize redfish, the Lone Star State provides year-round fishing possibilities that suit everyone, from the glittering Gulf Coast to the meandering rivers of East Texas.
Since most freshwater species in Texas do not have conventional “closed seasons,” you may fish for panfish, bass, and catfish almost year-round. Nonetheless, there are bag and size restrictions intended to maintain sustainable and healthy populations. Particular laws for species such as red drum, speckled trout, and flounder require greater attention from saltwater fishermen, particularly during spawning seasons.
We’ll go over the 2025–2026 calendar, explain creel limitations, show you the greatest public waterways, and answer all of your licensing and permit questions in this guide. This is your go-to resource for maximizing your time on the water, regardless of whether you live in Texas or are visiting from a state like Florida.
📅 Quick Reference Table: Texas Fishing Seasons by Month
Here’s a snapshot of what you can target throughout the year. Keep in mind that while many species are open year-round, certain saltwater fish have specific harvest windows.
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Special Regulations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | Open Year-Round | 5 fish | 14″ minimum length |
| Catfish (Channel/Blue) | Open Year-Round | 25 combined | No minimum size |
| Crappie (White/Black) | Open Year-Round | 25 fish | 10″ minimum length |
| Redfish (Red Drum) | Open Year-Round | 3 fish | 20″–28″ slot limit |
| Speckled Trout | Open Year-Round | 5 fish | 15″ minimum length |
| Flounder | Nov 1 – Dec 14 (Closed other times in some areas) | 5 fish | 14″ minimum length |
| Striped Bass | Open Year-Round | 5 fish | 18″ minimum length |
| White Bass | Open Year-Round | 25 fish | 10″ minimum length |
| Bluegill/Sunfish | Open Year-Round | 25 fish | No minimum size |
Note: Regulations can vary by specific water body. Always check the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) for the latest updates.
🐟 Popular Sport Fish: The Big Catches
Largemouth Bass 🎣
Largemouth bass are the crown jewel of Texas freshwater fishing. You’ll find them lurking in just about every lake, reservoir, and farm pond across the state. Peak action typically happens in spring (March through May) when they’re spawning in shallow water, but don’t sleep on fall fishing—September and October can be absolutely explosive.
Key Waters: Lake Fork (legendary for trophy bass), Toledo Bend Reservoir, Lake Ray Roberts, and Choke Canyon Reservoir.
Regulations: 5 fish daily limit, with a 14-inch minimum length. Some lakes have special “slot limits” to protect mid-size breeding fish, so always double-check local rules.
Catfish (Channel, Blue, and Flathead) 🐠
If you want action and great table fare, catfish are hard to beat. Texas is home to some truly monster blues and flatheads—fish that can top 50 pounds if you’re lucky. Channel catfish are abundant and perfect for beginners or family outings.
Best Times: Late spring through early fall, especially at night. Catfish are nocturnal feeders, so bring a headlamp and some stink bait.
Hot Spots: Lake Texoma (blue catfish heaven), the Brazos River, Lake Tawakoni, and the Trinity River.
Regulations: 25 fish combined daily limit for channel and blue catfish. Flathead catfish have a 5-fish limit with an 18-inch minimum on some waters.
Striped Bass and White Bass 🦈
These hard-fighting fish offer some of the most exciting freshwater action in Texas. Striped bass (often called “stripers”) and their smaller cousins, white bass, are known for aggressive surface feeds that’ll get your heart racing.
Peak Season: Spring (March–May) during their spawning runs. Head to areas below dams or river mouths where they congregate in massive schools.
Top Destinations: Lake Texoma, Lake Whitney, and Possum Kingdom Lake.
Regulations: 5 striped bass per day (18″ minimum). White bass have a 25-fish limit with a 10-inch minimum.
🦞 Specialty Species: Gulf Coast Treasures
Redfish (Red Drum) 🐟
Redfish are the pride of Texas saltwater anglers. These copper-colored beauties are found in bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters along the entire Gulf Coast. They’re aggressive, fight like crazy, and taste incredible.
Season: Open year-round, but fall (September–November) is prime time when bull reds migrate along the beaches.
Regulations: 3 fish per day with a slot limit of 20–28 inches. This protects both juvenile and trophy-sized breeding fish.
Must-Fish Spots: Galveston Bay, Port Aransas, South Padre Island, and the Laguna Madre.
Speckled Trout 🐠
Speckled trout (or “specks”) are another saltwater staple. They thrive in the same habitats as redfish and are often caught together. Early morning topwater action is legendary.
Best Months: Spring and fall, though you can catch them year-round if you know where to look.
Regulations: 5 fish daily limit, 15-inch minimum length.
Flounder 🦞
Flounder are the chameleons of the Texas coast—masters of camouflage that lie flat on the bottom waiting to ambush prey. They’re also one of the tastiest fish you’ll ever fry up.
Season: Flounder have a closed season in many Texas bays to protect spawning populations. Typically, harvest is closed from mid-December through mid-February (exact dates vary by region).
Regulations: 5 fish daily limit, 14-inch minimum length.
🐠 Panfish & Everyday Catches
| Species | Daily Bag Limit | Minimum Size | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crappie (White/Black) | 25 fish | 10 inches | Spring (Feb–April) |
| Bluegill | 25 fish | None | Late spring through summer |
| Sunfish (Redear, Longear) | 25 fish | None | Spring and early summer |
| Yellow Perch | 25 fish | None | Winter and early spring |
Panfish are perfect for kids, beginners, or anyone who just wants to relax and catch a bunch of fish. Crappie fishing in early spring is practically a Texas tradition—find a good brush pile or submerged structure, and you’ll be in business. Bluegill and sunfish are abundant in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams.
🦆 Stocked & Managed Waters
Texas Parks & Wildlife actively stocks trout in select waters during the cooler months (typically November through March). These rainbow trout provide fantastic cold-weather fishing opportunities in places you wouldn’t normally find trout.
Popular Stocked Waters:
- Village Creek in Fort Worth
- Towne Lake in McKinney
- Lady Bird Lake in Austin
- San Angelo’s O.C. Fisher Lake
Check the TPWD Stocking Schedule for real-time updates on when and where trout are being released. These community fishing lakes are often family-friendly, accessible, and perfect for a quick half-day trip.
🌍 Public vs. Private Waters: Know Before You Go
Texas has thousands of public lakes, rivers, and reservoirs managed by TPWD, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and various water districts. Public access is generally excellent, with boat ramps, piers, and shoreline fishing areas widely available.
Public Waters: Free to fish with a valid license. Examples include Lake Fork, Toledo Bend, Caddo Lake, and the Guadalupe River.
Private Waters: Some ponds and lakes are on private property. Always get permission before fishing, and respect landowner rights. Texas takes trespassing seriously.
Tip: Download the Texas Fishing Regulations App for GPS-enabled maps and up-to-date rules specific to each water body.
🎟️ Fishing License Guide: What You Need
Resident Licenses
- Freshwater Package: $30 (includes freshwater stamp)
- Saltwater Package: $35 (includes saltwater stamp)
- All-Water Package: $47 (covers both fresh and saltwater)
Non-Resident Licenses
- Freshwater Package: $58
- Saltwater Package: $63
- All-Water Package: $68
Short-Term Options
- 1-Day All-Water License: $11 (resident) / $16 (non-resident)
- 5-Day All-Water License: N/A (Texas offers daily options instead)
Youth & Senior Licenses
- Under 17 years old: No license required
- Seniors (65+): Discounted resident licenses available
Specialty Stamps & Permits
- Freshwater Trout Stamp: Required if fishing stocked trout waters (included in packages)
- Saltwater Stamp: Required for all saltwater fishing (included in packages)
Purchase licenses online at the TPWD License Sales Portal or at any authorized retailer (sporting goods stores, Walmart, bait shops, etc.).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do kids need a license to fish in Texas?
A: Nope! Anyone under 17 can fish without a license. It’s a great way to introduce young anglers to the sport without extra cost.
Q: Can I use live bait in Texas?
A: Yes, live bait is legal statewide. However, some lakes have restrictions on certain species (like using tilapia as bait). Check local regulations.
Q: Are there catch-and-release-only waters?
A: Yes, a few select areas are designated as catch-and-release or “artificial lures only.” These are usually marked clearly and listed on TPWD’s website.
Q: Is night fishing allowed?
A: Absolutely. Night fishing is legal and often productive, especially for catfish and striped bass.
Q: Can I bowfish in Texas?
A: Yes! Bowfishing is permitted for non-game fish like gar, carp, and buffalo. You’ll need a valid fishing license, and special rules apply for saltwater species.
Q: How do I report a trophy catch?
A: TPWD runs the ShareLunker Program for largemouth bass over 13 pounds. You can register your catch online and contribute to conservation efforts. Similar to how anglers track big catches in New York, Texas celebrates its trophy fish.
Q: What’s the penalty for fishing without a license?
A: Fines vary but can range from $25 to $500 depending on the violation. Game wardens are out there, and it’s just not worth the risk. Support conservation—buy your license!
🗺️ Map & Hotspots: Where to Cast Your Line
Top 5 Must-Visit Fishing Destinations in Texas
- Lake Fork – Trophy largemouth bass capital of the state. Expect fish over 10 pounds.
- Toledo Bend Reservoir – Massive impoundment on the Texas-Louisiana border. Bass, crappie, and catfish galore.
- Galveston Bay – Premier saltwater destination for redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.
- Caddo Lake – Mystical cypress swamp near the Louisiana border. Incredible crappie and bass fishing.
- South Padre Island – World-class surf fishing and nearshore action for kingfish, tarpon, and sharks.
For detailed maps, water levels, and ramp locations, visit the TPWD Interactive Fishing Map.
🔗 Related Fishing Guides
Looking to explore fishing opportunities beyond Texas? Check out these helpful resources:
- Pennsylvania Fishing Season Guide – Trout streams and Great Lakes access
- Wisconsin Fishing Season – Muskie, walleye, and ice fishing heaven
✅ Wrap-Up: Time to Get on the Water
Whether you want to teach your kids how to catch bluegill on a peaceful Saturday afternoon, battle bull reds in the surf, or hunt monster bass in renowned lakes, Texas has plenty to offer every fisherman. With few closed seasons and amazing freshwater and saltwater diversity, the Lone Star State is a year-round fishing destination.
Make sure your license is in order before you go, check the water conditions, and go over the bag and size restrictions for your intended species. Remember to pack a cooler for your catch (or cold beverages), wear lots of sunscreen, and drink plenty of water.
keywords, appropriate use of emojis, and thorough explanations of Texas’s fishing laws, species, and hotspots for 2025–2026. Have fun on the water! 🐟