New 2016-2017 Texas hunting and fishing licenses are now on sale, with more than 2.4 million licenses expected to be purchased in the coming year.
All current year Texas hunting and fishing licenses (except year-to-date fishing licenses) expire Aug. 31.
Licenses from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) are available at the agency’s 28 field offices, more than 50 state parks and at over 1,700 retailers across the state. Licenses are also available online at www.tpwd.texas.gov/buy or by phone at 1-800-895-4248. There is a required $5 administrative fee for each phone or online transaction.
All revenue generated from hunting and fishing license fees pays for conservation efforts and recreational opportunities. Fish stocking, wildlife management, habitat restoration, public hunting leases, river access permits and Texas game wardens are just some of the initiatives funded in part by license fees.
TPWD spokesperson Stephanie Salinas told the Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) Radio Network that hunters and anglers should also get the 2016-2017 Outdoor Annual to make sure they have the latest information on hunting and fishing regulations.
“You can go ahead and get those at any outdoor retailer, as well as at any of our state parks and wildlife management areas. If you have a smartphone, you can also download the Outdoor Annual app, which has everything on your phone in your pocket so you can enjoy it out in the field,” Salinas said.
This season, when purchasing their license, Texans can also enter several drawings. Big Time Texas Hunts offers the chance to win one or more premium guided hunt packages, with all lodging and food included. There are opportunities to pursue bighorn sheep, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn, alligator, waterfowl, upland game birds, wild hog and exotics. Big Time Texas Hunts entries are available online for $9 each or for $10 each at license retailers or by phone.
TPWD also will award Lifetime Super Combo Licenses to three lucky winners during the Lifetime License Drawings. Participants can enter for $5 per entry at license retailers or online.
Beginning this year, hunters and anglers can support two worthwhile causes when they buy their hunting or fishing license. License buyers can make voluntary donations to help veterans or to support the Hunters for the Hungry program.