(a) The governor shall appoint at least two and not more than four competent pilots for Matagorda and Lavaca bays, from Pass Cavallo to Indianola and Lavaca.
(b) The term of office, method of qualification, powers, and privileges of a pilot appointed under this section are the same as those of a branch pilot, to the extent applicable.

(c) The county judge of Calhoun County must approve the bond of a pilot appointed under this section.
(d) Except to the extent that the rate of pilotage is set under other applicable law, the rate of pilotage for the bays is $2.50 for each foot of water the vessel may draw when piloted.
(e) A vessel that may draw five feet or more is liable to pay one-half the pilotage prescribed by Subsection (d) to a licensed pilot for the bays whose services are tendered and declined.