If you’re a fishing enthusiast, Texas is one of the best states to reside or visit. With thousands of freshwater lakes, rivers, and the saltwater Gulf to take advantage of, there is never a shortage of fish. What is the best time to go fishing in Texas? Fishing season in Texas is open year-round, so the best time to go fishing depends on your fishing preferences.
What Are the Fishing Requirements in Texas?
To fish in Texas, you need a Texas fishing license and the appropriate endorsement. Saltwater endorsements are for coastal waters, whereas freshwater endorsements are for inland waters. Recreational anglers can purchase a fishing license in August that will remain valid until August 30 of the following year.
Fishing licenses allow you to catch various game fish but will not allow you to hunt frogs or non-protected turtles.
When Is Fishing Season?
In Texas, fishing season lasts all year! The best time to take your boat out will depend on various factors, including where you fish and the fish you hope to catch.
Fall Fishing
As the temperature cools from summer, fall fishing begins. In freshwater lakes, the largemouth bass regain their appetite and return strong for fishermen. Catfish also tend to have their peak bite in autumn.
As the saltwater shallows begin to cool, giant bull redfish move ahead, and sea trout follow. Anglers tend to have more luck catching redfish in the fall, unlike other seasons.
As blackfin tuna begin to travel offshore, they become one of the most easy-to-catch in fall.
Winter Fishing
Because you don’t have to wait for warm weather for fishing season in Texas, remember to dress for winter fishing. Most anglers take their boats on the water during the season’s sparse, warm days.
Alligator gars live in inland lakes, rivers, and reservoirs throughout the year. Since they can tolerate saltwater, they may also be found in the Gulf. Catfish are abundant, no matter the season, and widely distributed throughout freshwater in Texas.
Look for saltwater fish, like sheepshead, in areas with muddy bottoms.
Spring Fishing
Spring is when the fishing season in Texas really kicks off, and most anglers begin to haul out their boats in the springtime. As the coastal waters warm, huge trout flow into the Gulf, and the lakes, too, see an influx of biting fish.
Largemouth bass and crappie move to shallow water in freshwater lakes and rivers following the winter months. At the same time, nearshore saltwater has its peak monster amberjack season.
If you prefer offshore fishing, you’ll find plenty of yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and kingfish.
Summer Fishing
In the summer, catfish are found in the deep channels during the day but in the shallows by night. Likewise, as dams release cool water, striped bass flow through freshwater.
For saltwater anglers, the typical fish turn from trout to redfish as the weather warms. In nearshore waters, you’ll find plenty of snappers and kingfish. Fishing charters, like those in North Padre Island, can take you out on deep water to catch sharks, snapper, snook, tarpon, mahi-mahi, and other large fish.
Enjoy Fishing Season With Boat Stop Marina
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, Texas offers recreation throughout the year. To enjoy the fishing season with your friends and family, consider our luxury marina, equipped with 24/7 security, a spacious dual boat launch ramp, and areas to spend time with your loved ones. To learn more about what we offer, contact us today!