Boating capacity and Texas regulations

[lewanda31]

Hello I have a basic question. I’m trying to understand the capacity emblems and seating for boats. For example I notice in the forum some boats are rated for seven persons but they only have four seats. I have also noticed people say that they have transported people while sitting on the floor. What I’m trying to understand is what does the law state about how many people can be on your boat and if they need a seat or not. When I reviewed the handbook for Texas I didn’t see anything specifically that states one where the other.

The reason for the question is I’m considering whether a fish and ski will be really worth it or if on the days where the family goes out I can squeeze someone on the bass boat legally by sitting on the floor or doubling kids together in one seat.

[JER-1 BIG BASS]

Should be plate on boat says how many people allowed onboard, and how much weight allowed.
mine says 4 people, has 2 bass seats, so extra person or persons sitin floor