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This king mackrel was caught off the Texas Gulf Coast. Staff Photo by Taylor Nye
Parks and Recreation
If the thought of reeling in sunfish, largemouth bass or channel catfish dwelling in Hopkins County’s lakes and reservoirs in the remaining days of summer appeals to you, you might want to review the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) regulations about fishing licenses.
According to the 2019 guide, a valid fishing license is required not only to fish but also to collect mussels, clams, crawfish and any other aquatic life from Texas public waters. If you want to catch turtles or frogs, you’ll need a hunting license according to TPWD.
Free fishing is available year-round in more than 70 Texas state parks although park entry fees will still apply. This includes both Cooper Lake and Lake Fork. To fish in both Hopkins County lakes, one does not need a special saltwater permit. To apply for a fishing license, the applicant must be 17 years of age or older. Those younger than 17 do not need a license.
Freshwater licenses cost $30 for Texas residents and $58 for non-residents. They can be purchased through a licensed sales agent or online. A fishing license is not required for those who fish on waters enclosed within private property. Anyone in a fishing group needs to have a license from those with a conventional rod and reel to those noodling for catfish, netting fish, de-hooking and everything in between.
According to TPWD, “100% of hunting and fishing license fees go to the TPWD for on-the-ground conservation efforts that make Texas one of the best places in the country to hunt and fish.”
Exceptions to the licensing rules exist according to TPWD. The first Saturday in June is annual Free Fishing Day. This year, that fell on June 1. Additionally, you do not need a license to fish from banks or piers in Texas State Parks. If you were born before Jan. 1, 1931, you do not need a license.
According to TPWD, there are a few excellent fishing opportunities in our area right now.
Cooper Lake is ranked as excellent for catfish, white and hybrid striped bass. Blue catfish specifically “provide excellent sport fishery,” and summer is best for bass around the main lake points and humps, TPWD says.
Lake Fork is ranked excellent for largemouth bass and catfish due to heavy cover by hydrilla, a water plant. “Night fishing during the hot summer months can be very productive and a good way to beat the Texas heat,” the TPWD says.
To learn more, visit tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/parks/things-to-do/fishing-in-state-parks