Boats for Sale in Texas

Texas requires a boater education course for anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 who operates a motorboat over 15 HP or a personal watercraft. The course is available online through TPWD-approved providers and you must carry the completion certificate while boating.

Texas has over 200 reservoirs and lakes for boating. Top choices include Lake Travis and Lake Austin near Austin, Lake Texoma on the Oklahoma border, Canyon Lake in the Hill Country, Lake Conroe near Houston, and Possum Kingdom Lake for its clear blue water.

Texas boat registration is based on vessel length: under 16 feet is $32, 16 to 26 feet is $53, 26 to 40 feet is $110, and over 40 feet is $150. Registrations are valid for two years. Additionally, Texas charges sales tax (6.25%) on boat purchases.

Yes, the Texas Gulf Coast offers excellent saltwater boating. Key launch points include Galveston, Port Aransas, South Padre Island, and Freeport. Popular activities include offshore fishing for red snapper, inshore redfish and trout, and cruising the Intracoastal Waterway.