Slot Limits in Texas Fishing Explained | What Every Angler Should Know
🎣 Slot Limits Explained — What Texas Anglers Need to Know
If you’ve ever measured a fish and thought, “Wait… is this one legal?” — you’re not alone. Slot limits are one of the most misunderstood fishing regulations in Texas, yet they’re among the most important for maintaining healthy fish
🧭 What Is a Slot Limit?
A slot limit is a rule that protects fish within a certain size range — the "slot" — meaning you can't keep fish that fall inside that range.
Example:
On Lake Fork, you can keep:
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Bass under 16 inches
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Bass over 24 inches
But everything between 16–24 inches must be
🎯 Why Use Slot Limits?
Slot limits help protect:
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Mature fish in prime spawning age
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Young fish that need time to grow
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The overall balance of fish size and quantity in a lake
It’s a biological balancing act — you’re allowed to keep a few, but the ones critical to the population stay in the water.
📍 Where Slot Limits Are Used in Texas
Slot limits vary lake by lake. Some of the most well-known include:
| Waterbody | Species | Slot Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Fork | Largemouth Bass | 16–24" (must release) |
| Choke Canyon | Bass | 14–21" (must release) |
| Fayette County | Bass | 14–24" (must release) |
| Coast-wide | Red Drum | 20–28" (must release) |
| Statewide | Trout (was temporary) | 17–23" (varied by region) |
Always double-check the TPWD Outdoor Annual for up-to-date regulations.
❗ Common Mistakes Anglers Make
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Not measuring fish correctly — use a flat surface, measure mouth closed, tail pinched.
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Assuming slot rules are the same statewide — they’re often lake-specific.
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Keeping oversize fish without knowing the bag rule — some limits allow 1 over the slot, some don’t.
🛠️ How to Stay Compliant
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Carry a measuring board
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Use the TPWD mobile app
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Keep a laminated chart of local regulations in your tackle
🧠 Final Cast
Slot limits are there for a reason — not to confuse you, but to protect what we all love: big, healthy fish and thriving lakes. Knowing how to read, apply, and follow slot limits makes you a better, more responsible angler.$1
🎣 Recommended Gear: Keep your measurements honest with the STATE COASTAL FISH RULER with FISH ID and REGULATIONS. Prefer a pro-grade board? Check out the Bass Pro Shops Tournament Measuring Board (link placeholder — update when affiliate available).
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FAQs About Slot Limits in Texas
What is a slot limit?
It's a regulation that protects fish within a specific size range. Fish inside the slot must be released — only those under or over that range can be kept.
Why do some lakes have different slot limits?
Slot limits are based on what each lake needs to maintain healthy fish populations. Local rules protect spawning fish and prevent overfishing.
Can I keep a fish that's over the slot?
It depends — some rules allow one fish over the slot limit, others don’t. Always check the TPWD Outdoor Annual or mobile app for the exact rules where you're fishing.
How do I measure fish correctly?
Lay the fish flat with the mouth closed and tail pinched. Use a straight ruler or measuring board on a hard surface — not your hand or guessing!
