OYSTER SEASON KICKS OFF IN THE COASTAL BEND
November brings the beginning of oyster season to the Texas Gulf Coast. Recreational harvesting of oysters is welcome, but it’s essential to know the state regulations that govern harvesting. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission enforces these rules to manage the oyster population as well as to provide a more stable price structure for commercial harvests.
Harvesters must have a valid fishing license with saltwater endorsement. You can take oysters for your personal consumption. However, if you have a recreational license only, you may not sell them. They can be taken by hand, with tongs, or by an oyster dredge that is no more than 14 inches in width. Any vessel used to harvest with tongs or a dredge requires purchasing a Sport Oyster Boat commercial fishing license.
You may not remove oysters from marked private leases without permission. Additionally, you may only harvest in water approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services Seafood and Aquatic Life Group. For more information on the approved areas, you can visit the TDSHS website here. Make sure you pay close attention to the closed areas.
Oyster season along the Texas Gulf Coast runs Monday through Friday from November 1st through April 30th and from sunrise to 3:30 p.m. For more information on oyster harvesting and to state check regulations and requirements, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission here. You’ll also want to pay close attention to the size and volume limitations listed on the website.
Whether you’re fishing this weekend or enjoying other activities, let Boat Stop Storage’s Rockport or Corpus Christi locations keep your boat safe and protected. For more information or to reserve your spot, check out our website here or call us at 361-937-2423 (Corpus) or 361-238-7177 (Rockport).
