Can I Keep?Flathead catfish Regulations in Texas (2026)
Recreational flathead catfish rules in Texas saltwater, as published by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
Min Length: 18 inches; Max Length: No limit
Bag limit
5
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Flathead catfish rules in Texas
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- Min Length: 18 inches; Max Length: No limit
- Bag limit
- 5
- Possession
- The possession limit is equal to double the bag limit unless otherwise noted.
Commercial rules
Show 1 commercial rule
- Where
- Statewide
- Bag limit
- Commercially Protected Finfish — Species listed below may NOT be taken from public waters for commercial purposes:
- Listed as: Catfish, flathead
Quick answers
What is the flathead catfish size limit in Texas?
Min Length: 18 inches; Max Length: No limit.
How many flathead catfish can I keep in Texas?
5.
More inshore in Texas
- alligator Gar
- Black drum
- Channel and blue catfish, their hybrids and subspecies
- Flounder (all species, their hybrids and subspecies)
- Gafftopsail catfish
- Mullet (all species, their hybrids and subspecies)
- Red drum
- Sheepshead
- Snook
- Spotted seatrout
- Striped bass, its hybrids and subspecies
- Tarpon
- Tripletail
All Texas saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Most anglers need a Texas saltwater license or registry: get one here.