Fishing License Details By States
Whether you are a seasonal or professional angler, a fishing license comes in handy to fish in various oceans, rivers, lakes, and ponds peacefully.
A fishing license is more important if you have traveled in various states of the USA. This piece of document gives you official permission to catch multiple fish species.
This license is necessary for doing commercial or recreational fishing. However, the rules and regulations of a fishing license may vary from state to state.
In this article, we will walk you through the price of fishing licenses by state and where you can find them.
What Is The Fishing License Requirements?
A fishing license is available in various types, such as one year, several years, and lifetime. But not all states of the USA provide a similar kind of fishing license.
You will get a junior fishing license if you are under 12-17 years old. People whose age is above 65 years will get a senior license.
Apart from regular residents, people living temporarily in the U.S.A. can apply for non-resident fishing permits.
There are also special fishing licenses available for Louisiana and Oklahoma residents.
The fishing permit type will vary depending on what fish you are targeting.
For example, the local government will not provide the same fishing license for Trout & Coarse 2-rod and Trout & Coarse 3-rod. They have different categories for fishing permits.
Besides, some states provide a spousal fishing license for a legally married couple. They are available in combination with an angling or hunting license.
What Are The Advantages Of Buying A Fishing License?
Why should you purchase a fishing license? It must have some reasons, right?
Here is why anglers should own a fishing permit for their particular locations.
01. Legal Requirement
In most jurisdictions, having a valid fishing license to fish is a legal requirement.
By purchasing a fishing permit, you adhere to the law and avoid legal troubles or fines. Anglers can stay worry-free from paying any fine.
02. Conservation
The revenue generated from fishing licenses is often used to fund conservation and preservation efforts to ensure the sustainability of fish populations and their habitats.
Your purchase of a fishing license supports these efforts, protecting the environment and fish populations.
03. Access to Fishing Locations
Many fishing locations are restricted to those who have a valid fishing license.
By purchasing a fishing license, you gain access to these areas, which can often offer more opportunities for fishing.
04. Educational Resources
Some fishing licenses provide access to educational resources, such as fishing guides, maps, and other useful information.
It will ensure sustainable fishing practices and help you become a better fisherman.
05. Enjoyment of the Outdoors
Fishing is a popular outdoor activity that can provide hours of entertainment and relaxation.
By purchasing a fishing permit, you can enjoy this activity without worrying about breaking the law or damaging the environment.
A State-By-State Look at Fishing Licenses
The United States of America consists of 50 states. Fishing regulations are not the same for all these states.
Besides, local authorities change the rules and regulations from time to time.
For example, Florida changes their fishing license rules twice per year. However, most states change their rules and fees once a year.
Let’s learn all these states’ rules, fees, and other vital details.
01. Alabama
People aged between 16 and 64 are eligible to apply for a fishing license.
However, they must use a rod, reel, artificial bait, hook, and line (cane pole) for fishing.
You can purchase an Alabama fishing license from different license agents, the local license commissioner or probate office, and Tanner.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Freshwater Daily Fishing Permit (1-day trip) | $3.00 | $3.00 |
| Freshwater Annual Fishing Permit | $15.05 | $58.15 |
| Saltwater 7-days Trip | $11.00 | $31.40 |
| Saltwater Annual Fishing Pier | $6.85 | $12.80 |
| Saltwater Annual Fishing Permit | $26.50 | $57.00 |
You can also get licenses for hunting, spearfishing, commercial fishing, etc. Apply for an Alabama fishing license online here:
https://www.alabamainteractive.org/dcnr_license/welcome.action
02. Alaska
Residents aged 18 or above and non-residents aged 16 or above can apply for a fishing license in Alaska.
You can purchase fishing permits from most sporting goods stores and at Fish and Game offices.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Yearly Sport Fishing Permit | $20 | $100 |
| Yearly Sport Fishing and Hunting Permit | $60 | $175 |
| Yearly Sport Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Permit | $85 | $190 |
| Yearly King Salmon Stamp | $10 | $100 |
| Yearly Hunting | $45 | $160 |
You can get Alaska fishing licenses & permits online from here:
https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.main
03. Arizona
Residents and non-residents aged ten or above can apply for a fishing license in Arizona.
Children less than ten years old and blind youth don’t need a fishing license for fishing in Arizona.
Anglers can purchase a fishing license from Arizona Game and Fish Department offices and at license dealers statewide.
| Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|
| $37 | $55 |
| $37 | Not Available |
| $57 | $160 |
| $5 | $5 |
| $15/day | $20/day |
| $24 | $24 |
| $5 | $5 |
You can buy Arizona fishing licenses aka AZGFD Licenses from here:
https://license.azgfd.com/
04. Arkansas
Residents and non-residents who are 16 or above can apply for a fishing license in Arkansas.
You must have Arkansas residency and age proof to get the resident Arkansas Fishing License.
Anglers can purchase a fishing permit from Arkansas Game & Fish Commission or a state fishing license agent.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Fisheries Conservation Permit | $10.50 | Not Available |
| Trout Permit | $10 | $20 |
| 3-Day Trip Fishing Permit | $6.50 | Not Available |
| Yearly Fishing Permit | Not Available | $50 |
| Fishing Guide Permit | $25 | $450 |
There are a lot of combinations and options for fishing in Arkansas, you can see full details here:
https://www.agfc.com/en/resources/licensing/fishinglicenses/
05. California
Residents and non-residents aged 16 or above can apply for a fishing license in California.
Anglers need to provide proof of residency and a valid form of identification and complete the payment to get a fishing license in Arkansas.
You can purchase a fishing permit from CDFW’s Online License Sales and Services online or directly from their official physical shops.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Yearly Fishing Permit | $52.66 | $142.05 |
| 1-Day Sport Fishing Permit | $17.02 | Not Available |
| 2-Day Sport Fishing Permit | $26.49 | Not Available |
| 10-Day Non-Resident Sport Fishing Permit | Not Available | $52.56 |
You can do the fishing licenses for fishing in California from here:
https://wildlife.ca.gov/Licensing/Fishing
06. Colorado
Any anglers aged 16 or above are eligible to purchase a fishing license in Colorado.
But fishermen aged between 18 to 64 years old must include a stamp on their first fishing license of the season.
You can purchase a fishing permit in Colorado, a licensed retailer, a CPW location, and official online stores.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Yearly Fishing Permit | $39.71 | $111.03 |
| 1-Day Fishing Permit | $15.55 | $19.01 |
| 5-Day Fishing Permit | Not Available | $36.26 |
| Additional Day | $7.50 | $7.50 |
You can see all the options and buy a necessary license here:
https://cpw.state.co.us/buyapply/Pages/Fishing.aspx
07. Connecticut
Getting a fishing license in Connecticut requires having a minimum age of 16 years of age.
They can use the fishing permit for both inland and marine waters.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Inland Fishing | $28.00 | $55.00 |
| All Waters Fishing | $32.00 | $63.00 |
| Only Marine Waters Fishing | $10.00 | $15.00 |
Buy the necessary license for fishing in Connecticut, from here:
https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Fishing/General-Information/Fisheries-Licenses-and-Permits
08. Delaware
Any angler aged 16 or above can apply for a fishing license and get it after paying a particular fee.
Each year, they will receive a Delaware-issued Fisherman Information Network (FIN) number.
Anglers can purchase Delaware fishing licenses from Digital DNREC, authorized license agents, or DNREC headquarters.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fishing License | $8.50 | $20.00 |
| Boat Fishing License (20 feet or less) | $40.00 | $40.00 |
| Boat Fishing License (Over 20 feet) | $50.00 | $50.00 |
09. Florida
People aged between 16 and 65 must have a fishing license to catch fish in any public fishing water.
They need a permit for hunting, freshwater fishing, or saltwater fishing.
Anglers can buy Florida fishing licenses from the Fish Hunt FL application or GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
Besides, tax collector’s offices and licensed agents sell fishing licenses.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Freshwater Annual License | $17.00 | $47.00 |
| Saltwater Annual License | $17.00 | $47.00 |
| Non-Resident 3-Day Trip | N/A | $17.00 |
| Non-Resident 7-Day Trip | N/A | $30.00 |
For all kinds of Florida fish and wildlife licenses and permits, check here:
https://myfwc.com/license/
10. Georgia
People between 16 to 64 years old must have a fishing permit to fish in Georgia’s fresh and salt waters.
Anglers can use the fishing license for basic fishing privileges. Youths can use their license until their 17th birthday.
You can buy fishing licenses from the Department of Natural Resources office, GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com, and other authentic retail stores.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fishing License | $15.00 | $50.00 |
| Annual Combo Hunting & Fishing License | $30.00 | $150.00 |
| Combo Hunting & Fishing License (One Day) | $5.00 | $30.00 |
Visit here to buy a fishing license for Georgia:
https://georgiawildlife.com/licenses-permits-passes
11. Hawaii
Residents of Hawaii don’t need a marine recreational fishing license if they catch fish only for eating.
However, anglers must acquire a fishing license to explore its lakes and reservoirs publicly.
Besides, fishermen are prohibited from shoreline fish in some particular areas.
- Resident yearly fishing permit: $6
- Non-resident yearly fishing permit: $26
- Non-resident 7-day fishing permit: $11
- Non-resident 30-day fishing permit: $21
Apply for a freshwater fishing license here:
https://freshwater.ehawaii.gov/freshwater/
12. Idaho
A fishing license is not required for individuals under the age of 14, but a licensed adult must accompany them.
A junior fishing license is required for individuals aged 14-17, which is available at a reduced rate.
To purchase a fishing license in Idaho, residents must provide proof of residency, such as an Idaho driver’s license or ID card, a utility bill, or a lease agreement.
| Specifications | Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fishing License | $30.50 | $108 |
| 3-Year Fishing License | $73.75 | $320.50 |
| Annual Hunting and Fishing License | $38.75 | $264 |
To buy Idaho licenses, tags, and permits, you can visit here:
https://idfg.idaho.gov/licenses
13. Illinois
Whether you are fishing in lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and streams, a fishing license is needed to catch fish in Illinois.
However, people aged less than 16, disabled, blind, or military service providers don’t need any fishing license.
You can purchase an Illinois fishing license online from the Department of Natural Resources website.
| Resident | Non-resident |
|---|---|
| $15.00 | $31.50 |
| $435.00 | N/A |
| $38.75 | $264 |
Get an Illinois fishing license from here:
https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/lpr/pages/fishinglicensesfees.aspx
14. Indiana
Anglers can buy a fishing license from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
However, purchasing an Indiana fishing license requires people to stay in Indiana for at least 60 consecutive days.
They can’t claim residency for fishing, hunting, or trapping from another state if they stay in Indiana for less than 60 consecutive days.
- Resident Annual: $17.00
- Resident Annual Trout/Salmon Stamp: $3.00
- Resident Senior Annual (Age 65+): $3.00
- Non-Resident Annual: $35.00
- Non-Resident 1-Day: $9.00
- Non-Resident 7-Day: $20.00
Order fishing licenses for Indiana from here:
https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/indiana-fish-and-wildlife-online-license-system/
15. Iowa
Residents and non-residents whose age is above 16 must have an Iowa fishing license.
Lowered-income people whose age is 65 years or more and permanently disabled residents can get the fishing rate a lower rate.
Anglers can purchase Iowa Fishing Permit from their local department of natural resources.
Online stores like Walmart also sell Iowa fishing licenses.
- Resident Annual: $22.00
- Resident Lifetime (Age 0-4): $42.00
- Resident Lifetime (Age 5-15): $62.00
- Resident Lifetime (Age 16-50): $252.00
- Resident Lifetime (Age 51+): $42.00
- Non-Resident Annual: $48.00
- Non-Resident 1-Day: $13.50
- Non-Resident 3-Day: $22.50
- Non-Resident 7-Day: $34.50
To get an Iowa fishing license order from here:
https://www.iowadnr.gov/fishing/buy-your-license
16. Kansas
Residents of Kansas aged 16 to 74 must have a fishing license.
Non-residents above 16 need a valid Kansas state fishing license for fishing in public locations.
You can buy a fishing license from any Kansas Department of Wildlife, online stores, licensed agents, Parks and Tourism offices, etc.
- Resident Annual: $27.50
- Resident Senior Annual (Age 65+): $15.00
- Resident 1-Day: $8.50
- Resident 5-Day: $21.50
- Non-Resident Annual: $52.50
- Non-Resident 1-Day: $14.50
- Non-Resident 5-Day: $27.50
To get more information regarding Kansas fishing licenses, visit here:
https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Fishing-Application-and-Fees
17. Kentucky
If your age is 16 or more, having a fishing license is necessary for any public waters.
Resident and non-resident trappers must have a fishing license if their age is more than 12 years.
Anglers can buy a fishing license from a secured Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Online License Sales site. They also offer fishing permits in person in their office.
- Resident Annual: $23.00
- Resident Senior Annual (Age 65+): $5.00
- Non-Resident Annual: $55.00
- Non-Resident 1-Day: $15.00
- Non-Resident 7-Day: $35.00
For Kentucky fishing licenses, check here:
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx
18. Louisiana
Residents or non-residents whose age is 18 or more must have a basic fishing license to catch fish in Louisiana waters.
You can buy a fishing license from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries or the official website: https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/recreational-fishing-licenses-and-permits.
- Resident Annual Basic Fishing: $9.50
- Resident Senior Annual Basic Fishing (Age 60+): $5.00
- Resident Disability Annual Basic Fishing: $2.50
- Resident Saltwater License: $13.00
- Non-resident Annual Basic Fishing: $60.00
- Non-resident 3-Day Basic fishing: $18.00
- Non-resident Saltwater License: $30.00
19. Maine
Anglers whose age is 16 years or more must have a valid Maine fishing license for fishing in any inland waters or fresh water.
You can purchase a fishing license from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife or various online websites such as https://www.informe.org/moses/, etc.
- Resident Annual fishing: $25.00
- Resident Senior Annual Fishing (Age 70+): Free
- Non-resident Annual fishing: $64.00
- Non-resident 1-Day Fishing: $16.00
- Non-resident 3-Day Fishing: $32.00
- Non-resident 7-Day Fishing: $48.00
20. Maryland
If your age is 16 or above, a Maryland fishing license is necessary for tidal waters.
Anglers can get a valid fishing license from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Service Centers.
They have an official website: https://dnr.maryland.gov/pages/service_fishing_license.aspx. You can apply online through COMPASS.
- Resident Annual fishing: $20.50
- Resident 7-Day Fishing: $7.50
- Non-resident Annual fishing: $30.50
- Non-resident 7-Day Fishing: $15.50
21. Massachusetts
Residents and non-residents who are 15 years old or older must have a valid fishing license.
Residents of Massachusetts can get a free fishing permit if their age is 15-17 years or 70+ years.
You can purchase a fishing license from the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. They also sell through their official website: www.mass.gov/masswildlife.
- Resident Annual Freshwater Fishing: $27.50
- Resident Annual Saltwater Fishing: $10.00
- Resident Senior Annual Freshwater Fishing (Age 70+): Free
- Resident Senior Annual Saltwater Fishing (Age 70+): Free
- Non-resident Annual Freshwater Fishing: $37.50
- Non-resident Annual Saltwater Fishing: $10.00
- Non-resident 3-Day Freshwater Fishing: $23.50
- Non-resident 7-Day Freshwater Fishing: $29.50
- Non-resident 3-Day Saltwater Fishing: $17.50
- Non-resident 7-Day Saltwater Fishing: $23.50
22. Michigan
If your age is 17 years or more, you must have a valid fishing license to catch fish in Michigan State.
Anglers whose age is less than 17 years don’t need any fishing permits. However, strictly following the fishing rules and regulations is vital.
You must have a license if you are assisting any minor with fishing.
Fishermen can purchase the license from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website. Many state license agents also sell fishing licenses. Visit here:
https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/fishing/license-info
- Resident Annual fishing: $26.00
- Resident Senior Annual Fishing (Age 65+): $11.00
- Non-resident Annual fishing: $76.00
- Non-resident 24-Hour fishing: $10.00
- Non-resident 72-Hour fishing: $30.00
- Non-resident Annual fishing (for Canadian residents only): $51.00
23. Minnesota
Any angler whose age is between age 16 to 89 years old must have a Minnesota Fishing license.
Youth whose is 15 or less don’t need any fishing license if their guardian or parent has a fishing permit.
You can buy a fishing license from Minnesota DNR or any state-approved fishing license agent.
- Resident Annual fishing: $26.00
- Resident 3-Year fishing: $71.00
- Resident 24-Hour fishing: $12.00
- Non-resident Annual fishing: $51.00
- Non-resident 7-Day Fishing: $44.00
- Non-resident 72-Hour fishing: $38.00
24. Missouri
Missouri residents aged 16 to 64 must have a fishing license to fish in public waters.
Non-residents will need a fishing permit if they are 16 years old or more.
If you have five acres or more land in Missouri, you don’t need any license for fishing.
Anglers can purchase a fishing license from the Missouri Department of Conservation. They also offer online service through their e-Permits system.
- Resident Annual fishing: $12.00
- Resident Senior Annual Fishing (Age 65+): $7.00
- Non-resident Annual fishing: $49.00
- Non-resident Daily fishing: $8.00
- Non-resident 3-Day Fishing: $19.00
- Non-resident 7-Day Fishing: $28.00
25. Mississippi
Anglers aged between 16 to 64 years need a fishing license to catch fish in Mississippi’s fresh or marine waters.
However, you don’t need a permit to fish in privately owned ponds and streams.
You can purchase a fishing license online from the Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks website.
- Resident Annual fishing: $10.29
- Resident Senior Annual Fishing (Age 65+): $5.29
- Non-resident Annual fishing: $32.29
- Non-resident 1-Day Fishing: $8.29
- Non-resident 7-Day Fishing: $22.29
- Non-resident Annual Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing: $47.29
26. Montana
Any angler whose age is 12 or older needs to have a fishing license in any waters of Montana State.
Fishermen must follow the state’s fishing regulations while fishing any waters of Montana
You can purchase a Montana fishing license from Montana FWP or any certified online shops or retail stores.
- Resident Annual fishing: $18.00
- Resident Senior Annual Fishing (Age 62+): $8.00
- Non-resident Annual fishing: $55.00
- Non-resident 2-Day Fishing: $25.00
- Non-resident 10-Day Fishing: $56.00
- Non-resident Annual Fishing Conservation License: $80.50
27. Nebraska
People who are 16 years old or older need a valid fishing license in Nebraska.
However, non-residents of Nebraska must have a companion with an authentic fishing permit.
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is the state agency providing fishing licenses for residents and non-residents in different categories.
- Resident Annual fishing: $29.00
- Resident Senior Annual Fishing (Age 70+): $14.00
- Non-resident Annual fishing: $58.00
- Non-resident 1-Day Fishing: $12.00
- Non-resident 3-Day Fishing: $28.00
- Non-resident 7-Day Fishing: $38.00
28. Nevada
Anglers whose age is 12 years or more need to have a Nevada fishing permit.
You can get a special combination hunting and fishing license if you are a veteran resident or active-duty service member.
Fishermen can purchase the fishing license from Nevada Department of Wildlife offices or license agents.
- Resident Annual fishing: $40.00
- Resident Short-Term fishing (1 Day): $9.00
- Resident Short-Term fishing (2 Days): $16.00
- Non-resident Annual fishing: $80.00
- Non-resident Short-Term fishing (1 Day): $18.00
- Non-resident Short-Term fishing (2 Days): $34.00
29. New Hampshire
Anglers and hunters aged 16 and older can purchase an N.H. fishing license.
Whether you are fishing in the coastal and estuarine waters of the state, it is mandatory to own this valid document. Visit here to buy a license:
https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/licensing/
- Fishermen can get this fishing permit from fishnh.com or a local licensed agent.
- Resident freshwater fishing license: $45
- Non-resident freshwater fishing license: $63
- Resident saltwater fishing license: $11
- Non-resident saltwater fishing license: $11 for a single day or $30 for 3 consecutive days
30. New Jersey
New Jersey residents aged between 16 to 70 years must have a fishing license.
But fishermen age 70 or more and less than 16 years don’t need a fishing license or Trout Stamp.
The fishing permit is necessary whether you are fishing in fresh waters or any privately owned waters of New Jersey.
You can buy a fishing license from www.nj.wildlifelicense.com, known as the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife.
- Resident annual fishing license: $22.50
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $34.00
- 7-Day tourist fishing license: $19.50
- Senior resident annual fishing license (age 65-69): $12.50
- Senior resident lifetime fishing license (age 70+): Free
- Disabled resident annual fishing license: $2.50
- Trout stamp (required for trout fishing): $10.50 for residents and non-residents
31. New Mexico
Anglers whose age is more than 11 years and less than 69 years will need a license for fishing.
But youth aged from 12–17 years will get a Junior Fishing License, and people from 65–69 years will get Senior Fishing License.
Fishermen can purchase a fishing permit from the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. Many licensed agents also sell these valid papers.
- Resident annual fishing license: $25.00
- Resident senior annual fishing license (age 65+): $7.00
- Resident veteran annual fishing license: $10.00
- Resident active military annual fishing license: $10.00
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $68.00
- Non-resident 5-day fishing license: $34.00
- Non-resident 1-day fishing license: $25.00
32. New York
Anglers need a fishing license if their age is 16 years or above. This fishing permit is necessary for freshwater and saltwater.
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation provides fishing certificates. Besides, many License Issuing Agents sell this type of paperwork. Visit here to buy a license online:
https://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6091.html
- Resident annual fishing license: $25.00
- Resident senior annual fishing license (age 65+): $7.00
- Resident veteran annual fishing license: $10.00
- Resident active military annual fishing license: $10.00
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $68.00
- Non-resident 5-day fishing license: $34.00
- Non-resident 1-day fishing license: $25.00
33. North Carolina
Whether it is coastal or joint waters of North Carolina, fishermen aged 16 years or older must have a fishing license.
If you have any Work First Family Assistance, food stamps, or Medicaid, your license fees will be less than other options.
Anglers can purchase a fishing permit from North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Their official website (ncwildlife.org) also provides online-based services.
- Resident annual inland fishing license: $25.00
- Resident annual coastal fishing license: $16.00
- Resident Unified Inland/Coastal Fishing License: $42.00
- Non-resident annual inland fishing license: $51.00
- Non-resident annual coastal fishing license: $32.00
- Non-resident Unified Inland/Coastal Fishing License: $72.00
- 10-day non-resident inland or coastal fishing license: $21.00
34. North Dakota
Anglers whose age is 16 years or more must have a fishing permit for any fresh or salt state waters.
Youths under 16 years can catch fish without a fishing license. But they have a sort of restriction.
North Dakota Game and Fish Department office sell fishing licenses in various categories.
- Resident annual fishing license: $16.00
- Resident 1-day fishing license: $8.00
- Resident 7-day fishing license: $25.00
- Resident 14-day fishing license: $30.00
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $50.00
- Non-resident 1-day fishing license: $16.00
- Non-resident 10-day fishing license: $35.00
- Lifetime fishing license for residents aged 16-49: $575.00
- Lifetime fishing license for residents age 50+: $225.00
35. Ohio
Owning a fishing license for residents and non-residents of Ohio is compulsory.
Anglers need to have a fishing permit to catch fish from privately owned ponds, lakes, or reservoirs available for public fishing.
You can apply for a fishing license using the Hunt Fish OH mobile app. Buying fishing permits is also possible from licensed agents. You can also visit here to buy a license:
https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/hunting-fishing-boating/fishing-resources/fishing-licenses
- Resident annual fishing license: $25.00
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $50.96
- Non-resident 1-day fishing license: $14.00
- Non-resident 3-day fishing license: $25.96
- Resident senior annual fishing license (66 years and older): $10.00
- Non-resident senior annual fishing license (66 years and older): $25.96
- Youth annual fishing license (ages 16-17): $10.00
- One-day Lake Erie Charter fishing license: $11.00
- Three-day Lake Erie Charter fishing license: $30.00
36. Oklahoma
Oklahoma residents and non-residents above 16 years of age must have a fishing license to fish in Oklahoma.
If you want to purchase an Oklahoma resident fishing license, you must have an established residence in Oklahoma for at least 60 days.
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation sells various valid fishing licenses for residents and non-residents. You can also visit here:
https://www.wildlifedepartment.com/licensing
- Resident annual fishing license: $25.00
- Resident 5-year fishing license: $88.00
- Resident lifetime fishing license: $225.00
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $55.00
- Non-resident 6-day fishing license: $35.00
- Non-resident 1-day fishing license: $15.00
- Youth resident annual fishing license (ages 16-17): $5.00
37. Oregon
Children whose age is less than 12 years don’t need a fishing license. If your age is between 12 to 18 years, you will need a junior fishing permit.
Any anglers aged above 18 years must have a valid fishing license with appropriate tags and endorsements
Fishermen can purchase this fishing work paper from myodfw.com online or get it directly from the O.D.F.W. office.
- Resident annual fishing license: $44.00
- Resident youth annual fishing license (ages 12-17): $10.00
- Resident senior annual fishing license (70 years and older): $29.00
- Resident disabled veteran fishing license: Free
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $110.50
- Non-resident 3-day fishing license: $38.00
- Non-resident 7-day fishing license: $69.00
38. Pennsylvania
Any fishermen aged 16 years or older must have a fishing license to catch fish in Pennsylvania for any fish species.
Many Fish and Boat Commission offices and county treasurers’ offices sell this fishing permit. You can also get the fishing work paper from huntfish.pa.gov.
- Resident annual fishing license: $22.90
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $52.90
- Resident senior annual fishing license (65 years and older): $11.90
- Non-resident senior annual fishing license (65 years and older): $26.90
- 1-day resident fishing license: $11.90
- 3-day non-resident fishing license: $26.90
- 7-day non-resident fishing license: $34.90
39. Rhode Island
People 15 or older must have a fishing license if they want to catch fish in Rhode Island in any freshwater stream or pond.
If you are on party and charter trips, you do not require a recreational fishing license
Anglers can collect a fishing permit from the state of Rhode Island or the Department of Environmental Management.
- Resident annual fishing license: $7.00
- Resident 7-day fishing license: $5.00
- Resident 3-day fishing license: $3.00
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $10.00
- Non-resident 7-day fishing license: $10.00
- Non-resident 3-day fishing license: $6.00
- Resident shellfish license (separate from fishing license): $7.00
- Non-resident shellfish license (separate from fishing license): $200.00
- Recreational lobster license (separate from fishing license): $50.00
40. South Carolina
Everyone 16 and older must own a valid fishing permit while engaging in fishing activities.
If you want to get the resident fishing license, continuously staying for 30 days is mandatory.
Anglers can get a fishing license from authorized point-of-sale agents or directly through the state’s official Web site (https://www.state.sc.us/)
- Resident annual fishing license: $10.00
- Resident 14-day fishing license: $5.00
- Yearly fishing non-resident license: $35.00
- Non-resident 14-day fishing license: $11.00
- Saltwater and freshwater recreational fishing license: $10.00
41. South Dakota
Anglers aged 18 or above must have a valid fishing permit to fish in any public waters in South Dakota.
If you want to get the resident fishing license, continuously staying for 90 days is necessary.
One of the easiest ways of buying a South Dakota fishing license is from the South Dakota Game, Fish, & Parks website.
- Resident Fishing License: $36
- Junior Resident Fishing License (ages 16-18): $10
- One-Day Fishing License (residents and non-residents): $16
- Three-Day Fishing License (residents and non-residents): $37
- Non-resident Fishing License: $46
- Non-resident Family Fishing License: $69
- Lifetime Fishing License (resident): $375
- Lifetime Fishing License (non-resident): $750
42. Tennessee
If you are 13 years or above, owning a valid fishing license is mandatory for residents and non-residents.
Children aged between 13 to 15 can purchase a junior fishing permit.
Fishermen can get the fishing work paper from various TWRA offices, and hardware stores. Visit here:
https://www.tn.gov/twra/license-sales.html
- Annual Resident Fishing License: $34
- Junior Resident Fishing License (ages 13-15): $10
- Senior Resident Fishing License (ages 65+): $24
- Annual Non-resident Fishing License: $50
- 3-Day Non-resident Fishing License: $20
- 10-Day Non-resident Fishing License: $30
- Annual All Species Fishing License (resident and non-resident): $51
- One-Day Fishing License (resident and non-resident): $6
- Lifetime Fishing License (resident): $200
- Lifetime Fishing License (non-resident): $500
43. Texas
Everyone aged 17 and over must have a fishing license to fish in public waters in Texas.
However, anglers under 17 years old don’t need a fishing permit.
Fishermen above 65 years old are eligible to purchase senior fishing paperwork.
You can get this fishing document from sporting goods stores, gun shops, department stores, bait, and tackle shops, etc. It is also available on Texas Parks and Wildlife website.
- Resident Fishing License: $30
- Senior Resident Fishing License (ages 65+): $12
- All-Water Fishing Package $40
- Resident Year-from-Purchase All-Water Fishing Package: $47
- Non-resident Fishing License: $58
- Non-resident 5-Day Special-Use Fishing License: $16
- Non-resident 1-Day Special-Use Fishing License: $11
- Lifetime Fishing License (resident): $200
- Lifetime Fishing License (non-resident): $500
44. Utah
Any angler whose age is 12 years or more needs to have a fishing license.
Fishermen must follow the local rules and regulations for catching fish. For example, you can catch up to 10 Walleye and Whitefish daily and 4 Trout fish.
Anglers can buy a fishing license from Sportsmen for fish and wildlife, Hook Line and Sinker, and many other physical and online stores. you can visit here to buy a license:
https://wildlife.utah.gov/licenses/licenses-permits.html
- Annual license (ages 18-64): $34
- Multi-year license (3 years): $102
- Senior annual license (ages 65 and older): $25
- Youth annual license (ages 12-13): $5
- Youth annual license (ages 14-17): $16
45. Vermont
Anyone whose age is 15 or higher must have a fishing license to fish in any public water resources.
Youths aged between 15-17 can get a special fishing permit at a reduced rate. But anyone less than 15 years old doesn’t need a fishing license.
You can buy this paperwork from Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department or your nearby tackle shops or sporting goods stores.
- Resident annual license (ages 15-64): $26
- Resident senior annual permit (age 65 and older): $8
- Combination hunting and fishing license: $44
- 3-year resident fishing license: $71
- Lifetime resident fishing license (ages 15-64): $420
46. Virginia
If you are 16 years old or above, it is crucial to own a fishing license for fishing on the inland waters of Virginia.
Fishermen who are 65 years of age or older don’t need a saltwater fishing permit.
But complying with the Virginia Fisherman Identification Program (F.I.P.) requirements is vital.
You can purchase a fishing license from Circuit Courts, license agents, and DWR headquarters. Visit here to get one:
https://dwr.virginia.gov/fishing/regulations/licenses/
- Resident annual freshwater fishing license: $23
- Resident annual saltwater fishing license: $17.50
- Non-resident annual freshwater fishing license: $47
- Non-resident annual saltwater fishing license: $22.50
47. Washington
Anglers aged 15 or above need a fishing license to do any kind of fishing activities, such as crawfish, collections of relic shells, bullfrogs, common carp, etc.
If you get caught fishing without a license in Washington, you may have to pay a fine of up to $5000 and up to 364 days in jail.
Fishermen can get a fishing permit from a certified license dealer or order it online by visiting WDFW.gov or DFW.gov.
- Resident annual freshwater fishing license: $29.50
- Resident annual saltwater fishing license: $30.05
- Non-resident annual freshwater fishing license: $85.50
- Non-resident annual saltwater fishing license: $60.00
48. West Virginia
People 15 years old or above must have a valid fishing license to explore this state’s rich waters.
However, if you are under the age of 15, you don’t need to have a fishing permit. The rule is the same for residents and non-residents.
You can buy a fishing license from a tackle shop, an outdoor sports shop, or Natural Resources website.
- Resident annual freshwater fishing license: $29.50
- Resident annual saltwater fishing license: $30.05
- Non-resident annual freshwater fishing license: $85.50
- Non-resident annual saltwater fishing license: $60.00
49. Wisconsin
Anglers need a fishing license if their age is 16 years or above. The same rule applies to residents and non-residents.
If any person’s age is less than 16 years, he or she doesn’t need to apply for a fishing license.
It is compulsory to have a valid driver’s license or social security number to purchase a fishing permit in Wisconsin.
You can buy this valid work paper from DNR GoWild vendors, Service Centers, or even from online at https://dnr.wi.gov.
- Resident annual fishing license: $20
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $50
- Resident 1-day fishing license: $8
- Non-resident 1-day fishing license: $10
50. Wyoming
Any person whose age is over 14 years old must have a fishing license. Youths aged between 14+ to 18 years can get a youth fishing license.
Residents of Wyoming whose age is less than 14 years don’t need this valid paperwork.
You can purchase a fishing license from the eight Game and Fish regional offices or their Headquarters offices.
- Resident annual fishing license: $28
- Non-resident annual fishing license: $92
- Resident 1-day fishing license: $6
- Non-resident 1-day fishing license: $15
Wrapping UP
Regardless of what state you are in, it is crucial to own a fishing license. It doesn’t matter whether you are fishing for a day, only seasonal, or for commercial fishing.
Whenever any Waterways Conservation Officer requests you show the license, you must display it. Hence, always carry a valid work paper to avoid paying any fees.
Ensure you are fully aware of the rules and regulations of your particular locations. Hopefully, you got a clear idea of how the fishing license by state varies from each other.
