What Constitutes a Navigable Waterway

[Jhua]

I found this really cool area in Freeport for reds but it has a barbed wire fence across it. Is it legal for me to just paddle under the wire and fish the area? I would launch near the side of the road where there is a drainage ditch. The waterway leads straight to the bay. Of course, it is a lot of work for fishing, but I like to keep my options open.

[Hogie70]

I think it is Dow property. Don't get caught lol

[H.Maier]

I don't see a problem as long as you don't get up on land. I climbed those barb wire fences in Jumble and Fence line coves for over 30 years. Water belongs to everybody unless specifically marked. I've poached a time or two also. Who hasn't?

[Hogie70]

Does it go to the bay or the river??

[Jhua]

I don't see a problem as long as you don't get up on land. I climbed those barb wire fences in Jumble and Fence line coves for over 30 years. Water belongs to everybody unless specifically marked. I've poached a time or two also. Who hasn't?

That's my line of thought, but i'm having difficulty going against the fact that fences are usually meant to keep people out and cattle in. I don't plan on getting caught. It's not illegal unless you do.

[Jhua]

Does it go to the bay or the river??

Bay

[Hogie70]

Bay

What bay?

[Jhua]

What bay?

Drum

[Hogie70]

Dow doesn't own anything over there. So you should be good.

[H.Maier]

I grew up a bicycle ride from the Dow salt and freshwater canals. I'd come out of the salt cedars with a big stringer of croakers and sand trout ( that's what paw paw liked) at 11-12 years old and industrial security would drive up and congratulate me on my catch. Lol. Probably not that way any more.

[Hogie70]

No sir after 9-11 it's all changed lol.

[rdb]

Fence is there for a reason. Better make sure your not trespassing. Trespassing is a harsh charge these days.
I would take the time to make sure it is legal before crossing fence.

[Capt. Cheese Burger]

All the best areas require trespassing or a vessel.


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[Gilbert]

I found this really cool area in Freeport for reds but it has a barbed wire fence across it. Is it legal for me to just paddle under the wire and fish the area? I would launch near the side of the road where there is a drainage ditch. The waterway leads straight to the bay. Of course, it is a lot of work for fishing, but I like to keep my options open.

I think I know where you are talking about but I wouldn't park on the side of the road. there is a boat ramp near by and also a popular public launch spot on the other end. that area isn't that big and you could just paddle to where you want to go and not have to worry about the fence.

[FishinAddiction]

All the best areas require trespassing or a vessel.


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I am with Capt. CHEESE Burger on this one. Lol