Prohibited shark species Regulations in Texas (2026)

Recreational prohibited shark species rules in Texas saltwater, as published by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Last checked November 7, 2026.

Bag limit

0 (catch and release only)

Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date

Recreational Prohibited shark species rules in Texas

Where: Statewide
Bag limit: 0 (catch and release only)
Possession: The possession limit is equal to double the bag limit unless otherwise noted.

Non-offset, non-stainless steel circle hooks MUST be used when fishing for sharks in state waters.
See Shark Limits and Identification for identification tips.
Atlantic angel, Basking, Bigeye sand tiger, Bigeye sixgill, Bigeye thresher, Bignose, Caribbean reef, Caribbean sharpnose, Dusky, Galapagos, Longfin mako, Narrowtooth, Night, Oceanic Whitetip, Sandbar, Sand tiger, Sevengill, Shortfin mako, Silky, Sixgill, Smalltail, Whale, and White.

Official source

Commercial rules

Show 1 commercial rule

Where: Statewide
Bag limit: Prohibited shark species: Atlantic angel, Basking, Bigeye sand tiger, Bigeye sixgill, Bigeye thresher, Bignose, Caribbean reef, Caribbean sharpnose, Dusky, Galapagos, Longfin mako, Narrowtooth, Night, Sandbar, Sand tiger, Sevengill, Shortfin mako, Silky, Sixgill, Smalltail, Whale, White.

Non-offset, non-stainless steel circle hooks MUST be used when fishing for sharks (including prohibited shark species) in state waters.
A Finfish Fisherman’s license is required for taking saltwater fish from the coastal waters of Texas for commercial purposes.

Official source

Quick answers

How many prohibited shark species can I keep in Texas?

0 (catch and release only).

Compare Prohibited shark species limits in other states →

More other species in Texas

All Texas saltwater fishing regulations →

Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Most anglers need a Texas saltwater license or registry: get one here.