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Go Fishing

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Kids with catfish

Free Fishing in Texas State Parks

Fish from pier or shore - no license required at over 70 state parks.

TPWD News

  • Jul 15, 2026
    Learn About Sharks at Sea Center Texas’ Annual Shark Celebration Event
  • Jul 15, 2026
    Be Weather Wise, Utilize Park Alerts
  • Jul 13, 2026
    Texas Game Wardens Remove 62 Impaired Operators, Report No Boating Fatalities During Fourth of July Weekend

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Now in TPW Magazine Texas Parks & Wildlife Magazine July 2026 cover and feature

Happy Trails

Trails to bike, hike and paddle are just outside your door, from strolls on the street to mountain peaks, Texas cities offer something for every type of hiker.

TPW Television on PBS this Week
Play Button Future Fishing Holes

Future Fishing Holes

Fisheries biologist Dan Bennett is working to turn two new Texas reservoirs into trophy bass fishing destinations. Cooper State Park in northeastern Texas offers shady campsites...

“Better Outside” Podcast Cactus Sniffing in the Desert

Cactus Sniffing in the Desert

Maybe you've heard of search and rescue dogs like Frida, the Labrador Retriever who saved a dozen people after the catastrophic Mexico City earthquake in 2017.

Couple planning route on map

State Parks for Beginners

The great outdoors awaits you in Texas State Parks. Choose from over 80 parks, natural areas, historic sites and visitor centers. Follow these steps to plan your trip. Choose a park, plan your visit and make your reservation.

grand father and grand daughter anglers posing with Catfish

Fishing for Beginners

If you are (or think you might be) interested in fishing. We'll get you started with fish helpful videos, articles, apps and other resources to teach you the basics and help you find just the right place to fish.

male and female hunters

Hunting for Beginners

Whether you're looking for a new outdoor adventure, interested in a quality source of fresh meat, wish to contribute to wildlife conservation or just looking for a way to spend more time with friends and family - we've got you covered.

Outdoor Annual online and app

Get the free Outdoor Annual.

Visit outdoorannual.com or get the free app for everything you need to know before you go. The app shows location-based info on hunting seasons and nearby waterbodies, plus the ability to look up current and past license purchases.

Female paddling Port O'Connor

Paddling Trails

Enjoy fishing and paddling access to rivers, creeks, lakes, ponds, bayous, and bays on Texas's official Paddling Trails. Over 80 trails provide well-mapped, accessible day trips for all levels of paddling experience.

Red Snapper

Federal Red Snapper Season

Red snapper season opened on May 22 in federal waters - your daily limit is 2 fish per person, 16" minimum. Red snapper season is open year-round in state waters - with a daily limit of 4 fish per person, 15" minimum.

Play Button Clean, Drain, Dry Your Boat Video

Protect the Lakes You Love

Invasive species like giant salvinia and zebra mussels can ruin fishing, boating and swimming for everyone. You can't always tell if a lake is infested with invasive species, and even a small piece left on your boat or gear can infest another lake.

Magazine in print and digital formats

Get all access to TPW magazine for only $2/mo.

Enjoy the best of the Texas outdoors with our award-winning photos, writing and more. Your adventure starts here!

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