Where to Boat

Family boating.

Boaters in Texas can enjoy more than 150 lakes, 15 rivers and 3,700 streams. These aquatic ecosystems provide recreational opportunities in addition to protecting water quality and providing habitat for fish and wildlife.

Lakes

Rivers & Streams

Bays & Estuaries

Legal Restrictions

Girls kayaking on water body.

Have fun and be safe when on the water or swimming.

Be prepared before heading out to lakes, rivers and coastal bays this summer. Learn how to protect yourself and loved ones while boating, paddling and swimming.
Play Button How to put a life jacket on a kid video still

Keep Kids Water Safe

Texas law requires that children under 13 years of age in or on vessels under 26 feet must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved wearable PFD while underway. Make sure your child's life jacket fits safely by following these easy steps.
Play Button Clean, Drain, Dry Video

Protect the Lakes You Love

Invasive species like giant salvinia and zebra mussels can ruin fishing, boating and swimming for everyone. You can't always tell if a lake is infested with invasive species, and even a small piece left on your boat or gear can infest another lake.
Outdoor Annual app on phone and computer screen

Get the free Outdoor Annual.

Visit outdoorannual.com or get the free app for everything you need to know before you go. The app shows location-based info on hunting seasons and nearby waterbodies, plus the ability to look up current and past license purchases.