Hunting & Fishing License

I just recently purchased a 2017-2018 combo hunting and fishing license. I haven't hunted or fished in 35 years. So I ask myself, why did I do that? Because I just recently found out that I need a license to shoot, basically anything on my property. Even a cotton tail. Yeah, of course deer, turkey, and dove, but when did it become illegal to shoot cotton tails, jack rabbits, racoons, feral hogs, and squirrels without a license?

I just added the fishing combo because my BIL is an avid fisherman, and I never know when I'll end up at the lake with him and his boys. LOL, I don't even own a fishing rod.

A license is cheap enough for Seniors. It's only $21 for a senior combo. Can't shoot dove tho, without a stamp.

Also, I'm very confused about the 13" antler spread rule. Is that the minimum, or the maximum? And how do you measure that before you shoot?

Minimum.

How do you determine if a buck has an inside spread measurement of 13 inches or greater?

The distance from ear-tip to ear-tip on a buck with ears in the alert position measures approximately 13 inches.

https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/media/pwd_cd_w7000_0823.pdf

By the way, as a DV I get a free hunting/fishing license; and I still don't have one...

Bozz10mm said:

A license is cheap enough for Seniors. It's only $21 for a senior combo. Can't shoot dove tho, without a stamp.

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As a disabled vet and over 65, a Super Combo is mine for free, but I buy one anyway. One "tax" that I don't mind paying

Also, I'm very confused about the 13" antler spread rule. Is that the minimum, or the maximum? And how do you measure that before you shoot?

Click to expand...

"... 13", or greater" is the intent, IIRC.

They do the same thing where I fish in AR with the hazy wording ... the "legal length" is stated as simply 10". Raises the same question you asked.