Digital Fishing Tags in Texas: How They Work & Why Anglers Should Use Them
🎣 Digital Tagging — How Texas Anglers Can Benefit from the New System
In 2025, Texas officially rolled out digital tagging for both hunters and anglers, marking a big step forward in how outdoor enthusiasts document their harvests. For fishermen, especially those targeting species that require tagging — like red drum over slot — this system is a game-changer.
📱 What Is Digital Tagging?
Digital tagging is the electronic version of a traditional paper tag. Instead of writing on a physical tag and attaching it to a fish or gear, you log your catch using the Texas Parks and Wildlife My Texas Hunt Harvest app or through the TPWD website.
✅ Why It’s Better Than Paper
- No more lost or soggy tags
- Real-time updates to your license record
- Faster reporting after catching a tagged species
- Eco-friendly (less paper and printing waste)
Digital tagging also makes it easier for TPWD officers to verify compliance on-site, especially when there’s no visible paper tag.
🎯 Who Needs to Use Digital Tags?
This system currently supports:
- Red Drum over 28 inches
- Sharks & Tarpon
- Some saltwater tournament fish
- And deer, turkey, other game species for hunters
You still need a license that includes tagging privileges — digital tags don’t replace your license, they enhance it.
📲 How to Use Digital Tags
- Download the My Texas Hunt Harvest App
- Sign in with your license number
- Log the catch immediately
- Keep a digital or physical copy of confirmation if required
👮♂️ What Happens If You Don’t Tag?
Failing to tag a fish that requires it is still a violation — even in digital form. Make sure you:
- Have your app ready when fishing
- Know which species require tags
- Tag your fish before transport or cleaning
🌐 A Sign of the Future
TPWD is moving toward a fully digital license and tagging system. This makes it easier to track harvest data, respond to overfishing concerns, and manage resources.
It’s also easier for you.
📱 Gear to Stay Tag-Ready: Keep your phone dry and your hands free while tagging on the water:
📺 Want more how-to tips like this? Subscribe to Texas Rod & Reel on YouTube for gear breakdowns, regulation updates, and fishing know-how straight from the Texas coast.
🔥 Also into BBQ? Swing by BBQ by Biggs for Southern rubs and smoked recipes that hit just right after a long day on the water.
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Tag, You Asked!
Do I still need a paper license if I’m tagging digitally?
Yes. Digital tags enhance your license but don’t replace it. You must still carry a valid fishing or hunting license.
What species require digital tagging in Texas?
Currently, red drum over 28 inches, tarpon, sharks, and certain game species like deer and turkey require digital tags.
Is the My Texas Hunt Harvest app required to tag fish?
Yes — the app is the easiest way to log your harvest, though you can also report through the TPWD website.
What if I forget to tag my fish digitally?
It’s still a violation. You must tag your catch before transport or cleaning, just like with paper tags.
