Decide whether to keep the fish first
A meal begins with a fish you can identify and legally keep. Check the current species rule before dispatching it. Then make sure you have enough ice, a clean way to transport the fish, and a place where cleaning is allowed without leaving scales, scraps, or packaging at the beach, dock, or lodging.
Use TPWD's current regulations for the legal question. The cleaning and cooking guide covers the equipment and handling side.
Check consumption advice
Fish-consumption advice can depend on the water and species. Use the Texas DSHS fish-consumption advisories rather than an old local recommendation or social post.
Call before bringing fish to a business
A restaurant, lodging, or cleaning service may not accept a visitor's catch, and policies can change. Ask the specific business before arriving: what species and condition it accepts, how the fish must be cleaned or packaged, whether advance notice is required, and what the service costs. This guide does not assume that cook-your-catch service is available.
If you cannot identify the fish, confirm that it is legal, or keep it cold, release it promptly with tools ready. Continue with catch and release and the licenses and regulations guide.