Learn

The most important lesson to learn is to be a responsible paddler. Be safe and be prepared, make sure to have a personal flotation device for each person. If you plan to fish, a valid fishing license is required from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department if you plan to take fish, mussels, clams, crayfish or other aquatic life out of Texas public waters. Rivers, bays and the gulf are ever-changing dynamic systems with potential dangers.

State and federal laws require paddlers to have:

• A personal flotation device for each person
• An efficient sound-signaling device such as a whistle
• A white-light source visible from 360 degrees if paddling in reduced visibility or from sunset to sunrise

Recommended Safety Tips:

• Never paddle alone
• Check weather forecasts
• Let someone know where you are going and when you are expected to return

Resource: Texas Parks and Wildlife