Texas Free Super Combo Hunting and Fishing License for a Disabled Veteran

Texas Parks and Wildlife issues the Disabled Veteran Super Combo Hunting and All-Water Fishing Package at no cost. It is one of the more valuable state benefits by dollar value for a veteran who hunts or fishes, because the paid Super Combo is the department's most expensive resident package. The eligibility test is a disability the Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes as the loss of the use of a foot or leg, or a disability rating of 50 percent or more, with compensation from the United States for the disability. Notably, residency does not matter. A resident or a non-resident who meets the disability test qualifies, which is unusual: nearly every other free or reduced license in Texas is resident-only. The package includes a resident hunting license, a resident fishing license, and five endorsements: archery, freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing with a red drum tag, upland game bird, and migratory game bird. The Reptile and Amphibian endorsement is the one endorsement not included. The federal Duck Stamp is also not included and is still required to hunt waterfowl. Proof has to be shown every year when the license is issued. Acceptable proof is official documentation from VA stating the rate of disability, digital or hard copy, issued within the last 12 months, or a Texas driver license carrying the DISABLED VETERAN designation. That second option is the easier path, and it is a good reason to add the designation to the license. This license is only available in person at a license retailer. It cannot be bought online or by phone, which catches people out every August when the license year turns over. Separately, a Texas resident on active duty, or a non-resident stationed in Texas for six months or more, may receive a free Super Combo, All-Water Fishing, or Hunting Package, also in person only. And any active duty service member may buy at Texas resident prices regardless of where they live.