Fishing

Fishing in a Texas State Park or local Neighborhood Fishin’ lake stocked with fish is fun, affordable and a good way for family and friends to spend time together outside. Plus, there’s a good chance your fish will be keepers and end up on your dinner table.

Where to go fishing

• Texas State Parks: over 70  parks offer fresh or saltwater fishing from shore, pier or boat. Everyone fishes for free (no licenses are required) and many parks offer tackle-loaner programs and special fishing classes and events.   
• Local Neighborhood Fishin’ sites: selected lakes in urban areas are stocked with fish every two weeks. Kids under 17 fish for free, while a fishing license is required for adults.  Amarillo, Austin, Bryan-College Station, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, San Angelo, San Antonio, Waco, Wichita Falls.       
• Artificial Reefs:  66 artificial reef sites along the coast of Texas attract large saltwater fish and nearly 200 marine fish species. Seven nearshore reefs are within 9 nautical miles of the coast and are accessible to more experienced anglers with offshore boats.
• Texas Lake Finder   

Beginner Fishing Programs

Want to go fishing or take your kids fishing, but don't know where to start? Here’s how:

• Go Fish: Families can learn the basics of fishing through fun, hands-on activities. Equipment and bait are provided or bring your own. Check the Go Fish calendar for upcoming events.   
• Tackle Loaner Program: 30 state parks loan fishing equipment-- just like a library loans books. Individuals can borrow rods, reels and tackle for up to 7 days of fishing. Find a loaner site near you.

Support Healthy Fish Populations 

Everyone plays an important role in maintaining healthy quantities of fish and fish habitats.  When you purchase a fishing license or fishing equipment, you are supporting fishery management, hatcheries, conservation and education. By learning to identify fish and respecting fishing regulations you can help protect fish populations, ensuring that they will continue to be available now and in the future for all who want to go fishing.