Purtis Creek State Park has strict bass rules and free fishing licenses

Purtis Creek State Park sits about 12 miles north of Athens near Eustace. The 355-acre lake was built for fishing. Largemouth bass must be released immediately — this catch-and-release-only rule has been in place since 1988. Channel catfish, crappie, and sunfish can be kept under statewide limits.

You do not need a Texas fishing license to fish inside this park — an unusual rule. A daily entry fee applies. The lake allows motorized boats, but speed is idle-only with no wake. Night fishing requires a small extra permit (campers are exempt). The park often fills up on weekends — make a reservation. The park also offers 59 electric campsites, walk-in tent sites, and primitive hike-in sites.