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In many states nationwide, a resident with the legal right to possess a firearm can transport one in a car. So, can those same gun owners take their firearms on boats, too? Or is it high-and-dry for boaters’ guns?

Whether or not you can take firearms on boats or other vessels depends on state and local laws 

In short, yes, you can take firearms on boats– with a caveat. To avoid breaking the law, gun owners must check their state laws before heading out on a body of water within that state’s boundaries. 

For instance, the State of Texas permits boaters who are legally allowed to possess a firearm to transport them on boats. Texas treats firearms on boats similarly to guns in cars and other vehicles. Specifically, boaters in the Lone Star State may carry a firearm on a boat without special licensing. Conversely, the U.S. Forest Service forbids loaded firearms “on any public fishing or boating access area, with the exception of those who carry a concealed handgun with a valid concealed handgun permit, unless otherwise prohibited by the landowner and posted as such.”

However, in Texas, as with other states that allow firearms on boats, some waterways raise specific legal considerations. Boaters need to know the specific state and local laws and regulations regarding guns and vessels. Failing to do so could result in confiscation or charges. That said, as long as you’re within the legal parameters of your intended waterway, you can carry a firearm on your boat. 

A hunter with a magazine-fed Kalashnikov-style shotgun on an inflatable vessel
A hunter with a magazine-fed shotgun on an inflatable vessel | BorisPamikov via iStock

Consequently, many hunters will carry weapons and shoot from a stationary vessel when applicable. For instance, hunters can use small jon boats and other shallow-water-friendly boats to hunt water fowl like ducks. Still, hunters who choose to use firearms aboard boats must be careful to avoid capsizing or accidental discharge. 

However, if you’re an avid boater or sailor with your sights set on the waves outside of American territorial waters, you might want to think again before you bring your firearm. Should you pull into port in another country and fail to declare your firearm, you could be charged with any number of crimes, including arms trafficking. Not something you want to go down.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).