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How to Get a Fishing License in Each State of USA

It is very possible and quite easy to get a fishing license in any of the states in America as long as you meet the prerequisite. The rules, requirements and regulation regarding fishing and obtaining a fishing license are regulated by the individual states in America and as such, these regulations and requirements can vary from state to state. Take for example, in landlocked states, they only offer inland fishing in lakes, rivers, basins and streams, while coastal states have a larger range of fishing locations, and thus, more saltwater fishing opportunities.

Also, each state’s licenses to fish depend on the fish species, the angler’s residency and age, and the purpose of the license. The departments issuing these licenses are different in all states, but most commonly, they are known as the Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Fish and Game, Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks et al.

Before you apply for a fishing license, you should do well to familiarize yourself with the general eligibility requirements and conditions of the appropriate department and prepare the necessary documents. Fishing regulations are put into place to help conserve and protect state fisheries. Anytime you plan a fishing trip, be sure to check the current set of fishing regulations since the rules can change based on fish populations and seasons.

In most places, for special category individuals such as senior citizens, disabled individuals or military veterans, fishing licenses can be purchased for a discounted price. Read on to see how you can get a fishing license in the various states of the United States of America.

Types of Fishing Licenses

Every U.S. state offers different types of fishing licenses for all kinds of anglers. However, fishermen must know the exact type of credential for their needs, as well as the time frame of the fishing trip. Which fishing license is issued also depends on the angler’s residency. In general, the following types of fishing licenses are available throughout the United States:

  1. Resident and non-resident fishing licenses
  2. Saltwater and freshwater fishing licenses
  3. Recreational and commercial fishing licenses

1. Resident and Non-Resident Fishing Licenses

Citizens of a state are offered the resident fishing license; however, anglers who are not resident in a state that they would want to fish in will have to get a non-resident fishing license. Typically, a resident’s fishing license is cheaper than a non-resident fishing license and it comes with a lot more options. To get a resident fishing license, you need to provide evidence that you reside in the state in which you want to fish in.

Many resident fishing licenses, such as lifetime licenses, are not available for nonresidents. In addition, both residents and visitors must bear in mind the validity period of the document and get a fishing license accordingly. For instance, visitors can purchase a daily or weekly fishing license and residents can buy annual or lifetime licenses to fish.

2. Saltwater and Freshwater Fishing Licenses

Another major classification of fishing licenses is saltwater and freshwater. Some states with coastal and inland waters offer both license types and others offer their licenses depending on the fishing opportunities. However, anglers must always make sure to buy the correct fishing license type and follow their state’s regulations.

These include learning about which fish species can and cannot be caught and complying with the state’s bag limits. Additionally, you should never purchase a freshwater fishing license if you intend to fish in salt waters and vice versa, as this is punishable by law.

3. Recreational and Commercial Fishing Licenses

Many states offer recreational and commercial fishing licenses to meet the exact fishing goal of clients. Recreational fishing licenses are for anglers who fish mainly as a form of hobby and do not have any intention of selling their catch.

Commercial fishing licenses, on the other hand, are issued to professional fishermen whose main goal is to sell the catch to companies or individuals. Be sure to check with your state’s regulations on commercial fishing and then decide whether it can be a profitable business for you.

How to Buy Fishing Licenses in the United States of America

In most states of America, getting a fishing license is quite convenient. Different states give anglers different options to obtain a license to fish. Some states make use of one two or more of the options on the list to make it even easier to for people to get a fishing license.

1. Online: This is one of the fastest ways to get a fishing license. All you need to do is to go online and log into the official state department websites. The elaborate licensing system offers purchasing of licenses, replacement and renewal of fishing documents and more. Applicants can pay by credit or debit cards and very often, the fishing license can be printed immediately. Some states may send the fishing license to your home address per your request.

2. By phone: In some states, it is possible to order certain fishing licenses over the phone. A representative will ask for the angler’s personal information, as well as his or her credit card to pay the license fees.

3. In person: Another option to obtain a fishing permit is in person, by visiting an authorized license agent, a sporting goods store, a fishing equipment store et al. Licenses can also be bought from local department offices throughout the country. Make sure to present proof of your identity and residency.

4. By mail: If you are not able to apply in person or online, in some states you can submit an application for a fishing license by mail. You must also send the payment for the license fee and wait for your fishing document to arrive in the mail.

How to Get a Fishing License in Each State of USA

  1. Arkansas

Arkansas requires permits to fish and hunt within the state. Hunting permits are generally not game specific, with a few exceptions, and do not specify how you must hunt, with a few exceptions. Persons found hunting or fishing without a permit may be fined or even jailed in some cases. Hunting and fishing licenses are issued separately in most cases.  The types of licenses are broken into resident and non-resident licenses.

In order to be considered a resident, you must have physically inhabited a residence within Arkansas for at least 60 days. Resident licenses are also available for students of Arkansas Universities and Arkansas students at out of state universities, active-duty military. personnel stationed in Arkansas, and active-duty military personnel who were residents of Arkansas at the time of entering the service.

Fishing licenses must be renewed yearly, with a few exceptions. The best deal for avid sportsmen is the Lifetime Resident Hunting and Fishing Sportsman’s Permit. It’s $1000, but gives you a lifetime permit to hunt and fish and waves special fees for trout, alligator, elk, et al permits (you must apply for these permits like anyone else, some are given on the lottery system).

Residents aged 65+ can get a lifetime combined license for $35.50. Persons with disabilities can get a three year combined license for $35.50. A basic fishing license for a resident that allows you to fish with sport fishing tackle is $10.50 per year. A trout permit is $5 on top of that fee. Persons with disabilities can get a three-year fishing license for $10.50. Residents aged 65+ can get a lifetime fishing license for $10.50.

A basic nonresident fishing license is $50. A trout permit is $12 on top of that fee. Nonresidents can get trip fishing license ranging from 3 days to 14 days. Those licenses are $11-22. It’s easy to get your hunting and fishing license. Arkansas processed licenses by phone, online or in person. Call 501-223-6349 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or 800-364-4263 24 hours a day/7 days a week. You can also visit the official Arkansas Game and Fish website.

In addition, most hunting and fishing supplies stores sell licenses. Even most Wal-Mart stores will sell you a license in the hunting department

  1. Colorado

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission (CPW) oversees Colorado fishing licenses and administers all regulations. Their mission is to protect wildlife and wildlife habitats today and for future generations.
Money collected from license fees is used to maintain hatcheries and stocking programs, studies for conservation and disease prevention, as well as programs to encourage more women and children to take up the sport.

Regular fees also include a $0.25 search and rescue fee, and a $0.75 fee for the Wildlife Council.

A Colorado fishing license gives you access to:

  • 6,000 miles of spectacular rivers and streams
  • More than 2,000 reservoirs and lakes
  • More than 35 species of fish

The first full weekend in June is a free weekend when anybody can fish without a fishing license. At all other times, a fishing license is required for anyone who is 16 or older who fishes in the state. A license is good for a full year, from April 1 to March 31 of the next year.

There are different costs for residents and non-residents of the state. With some exceptions, each person must also purchase a $10 Habitat Stamp along with their fishing license. These funds are used to operate the Colorado Wildlife Habitat Protection Program.

Residents of Colorado who have lived in the state for at least 6 months, documented by a valid Colorado driver’s license or other verifiable ID, pay per the following fee structure:

  • 1 day fishing – $9
  • Additional day fishing – $5
  • Annual fee (ages 16-63) – $26
  • Senior fee (64 and older) – $1
  • Second rod stamp – $5 (This applies if you intend to have two lines in the water at the same time.)
  • Habitat Stamp – $10 (Persons buying a 1 day or additional day license only pay the Habitat Stamp fee if they purchase a third similar license.)

There are some exceptions for resident licenses: Colorado residents on active duty with Armed Forces out of state can fish free for 30 days while on temporary leave. Visitors to the state must provide their name and address as well as some personal information. They should specify the kind of license wanted, and indicate whether they plan on having more than one line in the water at a time. The fee structure is:

  • 1 day license – $9
  • 5-day license – $21
  • Additional day – $5
  • Annual fee – $56
  • Second rod stamp – $5
  • Habitat Stamp – $10 (Persons buying 1 day or additional day licenses are only charged the Habitat stamp fee after they buy a third similar license.)

In Colorado, you can buy your fishing license in two ways. You can deal directly with the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission by calling their toll-free number (1-800-244-5613). You can also obtain a Colorado fishing license online through the CPW website. However, many anglers find it simpler to drop in to one of the many license agents throughout the state to pick up the necessary license in person. This can be done at sporting goods stores or fly fishing shops.

  1. California

California offers a number of different fishing license options including short-term and annual licenses. You can purchase a California fishing license online or from a license agent, like a sporting good store. Fishing licenses help pay for fishery conservation education and other valuable programs.

Please note that California does not require a fishing license when fishing on a public pier. You can purchase a California fishing license online or from a license agent, like a sporting good store. A sport fishing license is required for any person 16 years of age and older. Fishing licenses are valid from January 1 through December 31 every year.

4. Connecticut

An Inland fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age or older fishing in the Inland District. A marine recreational fishing license is required for anyone age 16 of age or older fishing from shore or from a boat in the marine district. Most licenses are issued on a calendar year basis and expire on December 3 .

Licenses are available online at www.ct.gov/deep/fishing. Licenses are also available at participating town halls, tackle retailers and DEEP field offices. For a complete list of vendors, visit the DEEP website or call DEEP Licensing and Revenue (860-424-3105)On June 17th and on August 11th, you can go fishing without a license on any body of water in the state.

Commercial Licenses: A commercial license is required to take, possess or land (regardless where taken) fish, lobsters, blue crabs, whelk, squid, sea scallops, horseshoe crabs and bait species intended for sale from both the inland and marine districts. Contact the DEEP Marine Fisheries Program at 860-434-6043 or write to the Marine Fisheries Program at deep.marine.fisheries@ct.gov or P.O. Box 719, Old Lyme, CT 06371 for further information on commercial fishing www.ct.gov/deep/CommercialFishing

  1. Delaware

A general fishing license is required for fishing, crabbing, or clamming in tidal and non-tidal waters throughout the State of Delaware. A fishing license may be obtained at DNREC headquarters (89 Kings Highway, Dover), from over 85 licensing agents located throughout the state, or online by accessing www.fw.delaware.gov and following the licensing link. A fishing license is good through December 31 for the calendar year in which it was issued.

In addition to the general fishing license, all anglers (resident and non-resident) age 16 or older must obtain a free Delaware Fisherman Information Network (FIN) number each year before fishing in tidal or non-tidal waters of Delaware. This includes those anglers exempt from obtaining a general fishing license. A FIN number is automatically generated and issued with the purchase of an individual fishing license.

Non-residents who do not have an individual fishing license and those exempt from the license requirement must obtain a FIN number before fishing. A FIN number can be obtained by automated telephone 1-800-432-9228 (toll free), or for live operator/customer service at 1-866-447-4626 (toll free) or by visiting the website at www.delaware-fin.com.

The FIN number is mandatory and failure to provide a valid FIN number to an enforcement agent will be treated the same as a failure to have a valid fishing license. The number that you are issued will be valid through December 31 for the calendar year in which it was issued. A FIN number is not needed if you only crab or clam. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) will use the data obtained from the FIN program to identify anglers for survey purposes.

The program allows for better estimates of recreational landings, an important component of fisheries management. All funds derived from the issuance of fishing licenses are dedicated to a special account for the purpose of matching and securing federal money allotted to Delaware under the provisions of the Federal Aid in Sportfish Restoration Act and cannot be diverted to other purposes.

Together, these funds support projects having as their purpose the restoration, conservation, management and enhancement of sportfish, and the provision for public use and benefits from these resources (Fishing License Exemptions ). June 2nd and 3rd are free fishing days when anyone may fish in Delaware’s waters without a fishing license.

  1. Georgia

Annual fishing licenses cost $15 for state residents and $50 for non-residents. A free Saltwater Information Permit is additionally required to fish in salt water. A separate trout license must be additionally purchased to fish for mountain trout. Discounted 1-day licenses are also available.

Other license options for residents include 2-year licenses, combo hunting/fishing licenses, all inclusive sportsman’s licenses, lifetime licenses, senior licenses, veteran’s options, and disability licenses. You can purchase a license from a local agent, or purchase the license online with the Wildlife Resources Division website.

  1. Florida

Florida is a very popular fishing location in America; from Miami to the Florida Keys, you’ll find some of the best saltwater and freshwater fishing spots in the world. If you’d like to join the area’s anglers, you’ll need to obtain a Florida fishing license. Here are the steps for obtaining a fishing license in Florida.

First, you will have to determine if you need a license to fish in Florida. The following individuals do not need to purchase a license:

  • Children under 16
  • Florida residents aged 65 or older
  • Florida residents who are in the military, stationed outside of Florida, and home on leave for 30 days or less
  • Those fishing on a man-made pond located on private property
  • Those fishing with cane poles in their county of residence
  • Florida residents fishing in saltwater from land or a structure attached to the land
  • Florida residents fishing in saltwater from a boat with a vessel fishing license

Try fishing on Free Fishing Weekend. If you’re not sure that fishing’s for you, the first weekend of April is a free fishing weekend. No license is necessary for freshwater fishing in Florida that weekend. When you have determined your eligibility status, you will then have to determine the type of license you need. You may purchase any of the following types of licenses

  • Resident 12-month Freshwater OR Saltwater Fishing License
  • Nonresident 7-Day Freshwater OR Saltwater Fishing License
  • Nonresident 12-Month Freshwater OR Saltwater Fishing License
  • Resident 12-month Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing License

You can purchase your license online if you’re willing to pay a surcharge. Alternatively, you may purchase your license by calling 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA and pay a surcharge. Licenses may be purchased without a surcharge at a county tax collector’s office or for a small fee at many fishing stores. In order to get a residents license, you will need to provide an evidence of residency.

  1. Idaho

In order fish in Idaho any person 14 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license. Anglers younger than 14 however do not need a license, but there is a small difference between resident and nonresident youth. A resident child under 14 has their own separate fishing limit while a nonresident child under 14 must be with someone who has a valid fishing license and their fish are included in the license holders fishing limit.

However, a nonresident child may purchase their own license and have their own limit. Special fishing permits are need for some activities for both residents and nonresidents:

  • Fishing for salmon and steelhead
  • Fishing with two poles.

Here are the prices for Resident Fishing License in Idaho

  • Combination Adult Hunting/Fishing: $38.50
  • Combination Adult Hunting/Fishing 3-Year: $97
  • Combination Junior (14-17 years) Hunting/Fishing: $19
  • Combination Junior (14-17 years) Hunting/Fishing 3-Year: $49
  • Combination Senior (65+ years) Hunting/Fishing: $13.75
  • Combination Senior (65+ years) Hunting/Fishing 3-Year: $33.50
  • Combination Sportsman’s Package: $144.60
  • Adult Recreational Fishing License: $30.50
  • Adult Recreational Fishing License 3-Year: $73.75
  • Daily Fishing: $13.50 plus $6 for each additional day
  • Junior (14-17 years) Fishing License: $13.75
  • Junior (14-17 years) Fishing License 3-Year: $37.75
  • Two-Pole Fishing: $15
  • Salmon or Steelhead Tag: $15.25
  • Non-resident Fishing License Fees
  • Combination Adult Hunting/Fishing: $240
  • Combination Adult Hunting/Fishing 3-Year: $716.50
  • Adult Recreational Fishing License: $98.25
  • Adult Recreational Fishing License 3-Year: $291.25
  • Daily Fishing: $15 plus $7 for each additional day
  • Junior (14-17 years) Fishing License: $21.75
  • Junior (14-17 years) Fishing License 3-Year: $61.75
  • Two-Pole Fishing: $15.50
  • Salmon or Steelhead Tag: $25.75

You can get a fishing license in Idaho online through the website of the department of fish and games or through their physical office.

  1. Hawaii

In order to fish in the freshwater inland rivers, streams and ponds in Hawaii, you will need a recreational fishing license. A saltwater fishing license is not required to fish in Hawaii’s marine locations, but you must note which locations allow fishing and which prohibit the sport as a few do not allow fishing.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) issues a variety of commercial fishing permits, special entry permits and special activity permits that permit taking fish from certain locations and purposes. You are required to have a freshwater game fishing license in Hawaii if you plan to do any of the following:

  • Fish for largemouth black bass, smallmouth black bass, bluegill sunfish, channel catfish, tucunare or oscar in streams and other Hawaii freshwater locations.
  • Fish for rainbow trout in the Kokee Public Fishing Area in Kauai.
  • Fish in the Wahiawa Public Fishing Area on Oahu.
  • You must obtain one of Hawaii’s commercial saltwater fishing licenses if you plan to participate in any form of commercial fishing or aquaculture.

Hawaii’s DAR does not have a long list of freshwater game fishing license requirements for residents or visitors. When applying for your HI recreational fishing license, you must provide your name, residence address, email address and phone number. Your game fishing license application will also require personal information, such as your height, weight, gender, hair color and eye color.

Fishing Licenses in Hawaii

Hawaii only requires one type of recreational fishing license to engage in the fishing activities listed above. Your Hawaii freshwater game fishing license is the only kind you should need to obtain, unless you are registering a bottom fish boat or you need a Wahiawa Public Fishing Area Entry Permit. If you plan to fish or operate a boat for commercial purposes, the state offers eight types of commercial fishing permits, as follows:

  • Aquaculture Dealer License
  • Aquaculture Facility License
  • Bait License
  • Bottomfish Fishing Vessel Registration
  • Commercial Marine License
  • Kona Crab/Lobster Closed Season Sales License
  • Special Marine Product License
  • West Hawaii Aquarium Permit

A Hawaii game fishing license is an annual license that is valid for one full year from the date of purchase. The commercial fishing license price generally reflects validity for one year, unless otherwise specified.

DAR states that game fishing license fees will vary and will be determined at the time of purchase. The price of an average commercial fishing license price in Hawaii is as follows:

  • Aquaculture Dealer License: No fee
  • Aquaculture Facility License: $50
  • Bait License: $50
  • Bottomfish Fishing Vessel Registration: No fee
  • Commercial Marine Saltwater Fishing License: $100
  • Kona Crab/Lobster Closed Season Sales License: $50
  • Special Marine Product License: $50
  • West Hawaii Aquarium Permit: No fee

You can purchase a hawaian fishing license online through the website of the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources. Alternatively you can go to their office and get a license.

  1. Alabama

In Alabama, you can purchase your fishing license online and then print out the license as a pdf from your computer. All forms of recreational fishing licenses that are offered in Alabama Expire on August 31 every year. You can also purchase your license in person by walking in to any License Agent to purchase your hunting and fishing licenses. You must present your driver’s license (if over 16 years of age).

In order to get a resident fishing license you will need to provide evidence that you stay in Alabama. By law, residency is defined by your driver’s license or non-driver’s ID card.

  1. Alaska

In the state of Alaska, fishing licenses can be bought from a lot of places ranging from the corner grocery store to sometimes right on-board your charter vessel. In addition, you can get your fishing license online. Non-resident license fees are as follows:

1 day – $25

3 days – $45

7 days – $70

14 days – $105

Annual – $145

You can also contact the Alaska Department of Fish & Game via PO Box 25526 Juneau, AK 99802

Phone: (907)465-2376 in order to get your license.

  1. Arizona

The easiest way to purchase an Arizona fishing license is to buy one online from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. You can also buy a fishing license in person from a designated fishing license dealer like an outdoor sporting goods store or tackle shop

A fishing license is not required for children under the age of 10, and most of the licenses are valid 365 days from the date of purchase.

  1. Indiana

With a few exceptions, a valid fishing license issued by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources is required to fish in public lakes, streams, rivers or tributaries in Indiana or its boundary waters. The license must be signed in ink to be valid, or the licensee must produce an electronic copy of the license while fishing. You must carry it with you when fishing and present it to an Indiana Conservation Officer (or any other authorized law enforcement official) upon request. There are fines and penalties for fishing without a license.

To qualify for resident fishing licenses, a person must have established a true fixed and permanent home and primary residence in Indiana for 60 consecutive days prior to purchasing a license or permit, and not claim residency for fishing, hunting or trapping in another state or country. All others are non-residents. Indiana residents who are 64 years old and born after March 31, 1943 are eligible to buy a Senior Annual or Senior Fish for Life License.

The Senior Fish for Life License is valid for the rest of the holder’s life and includes the trout/salmon stamp. To legally fish for or take trout and salmon from public waters, you must also have a valid trout and salmon privilege and a valid fishing license (signed in ink), or have with you an electronic copy of the license while fishing. A fishing license may be revoked if the license holder is convicted of violating fish and wildlife regulations.

Any equipment used in the violation of Indiana fish and wildlife laws may be seized for evidence, and be confiscated upon conviction. You can buy a fishing license online by visiting INHuntFish.com. alternatively, you can get the license in Person by Visiting one of more than 525 retailers statewide or visit the DNR Customer Service Center, Indiana Government Center South, 402 W. Washington St., Room W160, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.

You can also get the license by Mail. You will need to send check, money order (payable to DNR) or Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express (include number, expiration date) to: Licenses DNR Customer Service Center 402 W. Washington St., Room W160 Indianapolis, IN, 46204. If you should be delivered in 2-3 weeks.

You should include the following information:

  • Name, date of birth, Indiana Driver’s License number and Social Security Number (required by IC 14-22-11-3)
  • Complete address, city, state, ZIP code, and phone number
  • Height, weight, sex, color of hair and eyes
  • Specify the licenses you need and dates for one-day or multi-day licenses

Last but not least you can Call (317) 232-4200 to get a fishing license

A fishing license and trout/salmon stamp are not required for:

  • Indiana residents born before April 1, 1943. Such residents should carry their driver’s license or other identification to verify age and residency.
  • Residents and non-residents under age 18.
  • Residents who are legally blind.
  • Residents of a state-owned mental rehabilitation facility.
  • Residents of any licensed healthcare facility in Indiana taking part in a supervised fishing activity sponsored by the facility.
  • Residents that have a developmental disability as defined by IC 12-7-2-61.
  • Fishing in a private pond that does not allow fish entry from or exit to public waters. However, an angler must have permission from the property owner to fish.
  • Residents of Indiana engaged in full-time military service while on approved military leave. However, the angler must carry leave orders and a valid Indiana Driver’s License or voter registration card.
  • Resident owners or lessees of Indiana farmland who farm that land, their spouses and children living with them, while fishing on the farmland they own or lease. This exemption does not apply to land owned by a business, corporation or partnership unless the shareholders, partners, members or owners are composed solely of an immediate family and farm that land. Farmland means agricultural land that is devoted to or best adaptable to the production of crops, fruits, timber or raising livestock, or is assessed as agricultural land for property tax purposes.
  1. Illinois

Illinois residents and non-residents age 16 and older need a recreational fishing license to go fishing in state waterways. There are exceptions to this freshwater fishing license requirement, including people under the age of 16, blind or disabled residents of Illinois and state resident military personnel who are on leave from active duty.

Applicants for a non-resident freshwater fishing license only need to select the type of non-resident license they want, complete the application and pay the fee. Those applying for a resident freshwater fishing license in Illinois must provide proof of state residency to receive a resident’s license. For recreational fishing license purposes, a person can be considered a state resident after living in Illinois for 30 days prior to applying for a license.

Illinois offers a variety of general recreational fishing license types to residents and non-residents. There are also many kinds of commercial fishing permits issued by DNR. Popular license types include:

  • Resident or non-resident annual recreational fishing license.
  • Combination hunting/fishing license.
  • Resident and non-resident lifetime fishing license.
  • Resident and non-resident senior fishing license.
  • 24-hour or 3-day sport fishing license.

Most Illinois sport fishing license types are valid for up to one year, depending on when you buy it. All recreational fishing licenses expire on March 31 each year. Short-term sport fishing license types, such as the 3-Day non-resident fishing license, expire on the date printed on the license.

Here is the typical fishing license cost in Illinois:

  • General fishing license: $15
  • Senior 65+ fishing license: $7.75
  • Senior 75+ fishing license: $1.50
  • 24-Hour fishing license: $5.50
  • Sportsmen combined hunting/fishing license: $26.25
  • Senior 65+ Sportsmen combined hunting/fishing license: $13.50
  • Lifetime fishing license: $435
  • Lifetime combined hunting/fishing license: $765
  • Non-Resident Fishing Licenses
  • General fishing license: $31.50
  • 24-Hour fishing license: $10.50
  • 3-Day sport fishing license: $15.50
  1. Iowa

Once you have purchased an Iowa fishing license, you can fish from a diverse number of freshwater species such as bluegill, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, trout, walleye, muskie or yellow perch. The quickest way to get your license and start fishing is to buy your Iowa fishing license online. Fishing licenses can also be purchased in person from a fishing license sales agent, bait shops and sporting goods stores.

Residents and nonresidents under sixteen 16 years of age can fish without a license but may need to purchase a trout fee. You must pay a trout fee to legally fish for or possess trout if you are a resident or nonresident required to have a fishing license.

How long is a fishing license valid in Iowa?

There are different options for recreational freshwater fishing licenses in Iowa in terms of the length of time the license is valid for. Depending on how long a fisherman chooses to fish, the license will vary. Which game fishing license will fit his or her needs best is up to the discretion of the angler.

The costs for recreational fishing licenses in Iowa range, depending on the length of time the license is good for as well as the type of license needed. In addition, the resident sport freshwater licenses will be much less expensive versus the non-resident licenses. The resident recreational fishing licenses are:

  • Annual Fishing License – $19
  • Angler’s Special 3-Year Fish – $53
  • Bonus Line – 3rd Fish Line – $12
  • Lifetime Fishing – $52.50
  • Resident Trout Fish Fee – $12.50
  • Resident One-Day Fishing – $9.50
  • Resident Seven-Day Fishing – $13.50
  • Resident Boundary Water Trotline – $22.50
  • Non-resident Fishing – $41
  • Non-resident Trout Fishing Fee – $15
  • Non-resident One-Day Fishing – $10.50
  • Non-resident Three-Day Fishing – $17.50
  • Non-resident Seven-Day Fishing – $32
  • Non-resident Boundary Water Trotline – $42.50
  1. Kansas

You can purchase a fishing license online or in person from a licensed agent or from a Kansas Department Wildlife & Parks office in your area. Licenses are available for purchase year-round and expire annually on December 31, except 5-day, lifetime, and 24-hr fishing licenses.

Residents age 16 through 74, must have a resident license in possession while fishing in Kansas. Nonresidents 16 and older must have a valid nonresident license to fish in Kansas. You can purchase your license online via the website if the Kansas Department Wildlife & Parks.

Each county also has licensed agents. These include Walmart (if they have one) and other businesses.  There are over 600 spread across the state. Some of the some vendors may only operate seasonally so call ahead to make sure they are open. You can also get your fishing license by calling this Toll Free Telephone: 1-800-918-2877

  1. Ohio

Ohio offers many opportunities to fish recreationally. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Division of Wildlife work together to protect the environment and the many species of fish and wildlife that call Ohio home. Whether you are a full time resident of Ohio or simply visiting, you will need a license to take any fish, frogs or turtles from Ohio waters. Get a fishing license in Ohio online, in person, by mail or over the phone.

Anyone who wants to fish in Ohio will most likely need a fishing license. There are several options available, depending on your residency and the length of time you plan to fish. Get a Resident Fishing License if you are between the ages of 16 to 65, and you have lived in Ohio for at least 6 months. It will cost you $19. If you are 66 years old or older, and you have lived in Ohio for at least 6 months, you can obtain a Senior Resident Fishing License for $10.

Purchase a 1-Day Fishing License if you are planning a fishing outing for just 1 day. Residents and visitors pay $11 for this license, and it can be used towards an annual license if you decide to fish again. Anyone planning a charter fishing trip on Lake Erie for 1 day can also get an $11 license. Get an Annual Nonresident License if you are not a resident of Ohio, but you plan to fish in the state for several days throughout the year. This will cost $40.

Buy a 3-Day Nonresident License if you plan to do your fishing in Ohio just during one trip, but you know it will be for more than 1 day. This license is $19. You can Purchase your Ohio fishing license online. Any license can be purchased on Ohio’s Division of Wildlife secure website. You will need a credit or debit card to pay for the license, and the ability to print your license once you have paid for it.

You will need the Customer ID Number from an existing license, a driver’s license number, and/or your Social Security number. The license can be printed or merely shown on the screen of a mobile device, whichever is more convenient for you.

You can also get your license from a participating agent. Each county in Ohio has stores and vendors that sell fishing licenses. If you are unsure of where to look, check the listing on the Department of Natural Resources website. You will need to provide a Customer ID Number from an existing license, a driver’s license number, and/or your Social Security number. The retailer will print out a copy of your license.

  1. Texas

n the state of Texas, you do not need to have a fishing license in order to fish (if you are fishing in waters that are completely enclosed by a state park). Figure out where you plan on fishing and if the waters fall within state park lines before wasting time and money on a fishing license. Also, determine if you are fishing saltwater or freshwater. Obtaining a license to fish for saltwater fish is more expensive than getting a license for freshwater.

The freshwater year round package costs $30 for residents and $58 for nonresidents. The saltwater year round package costs $35 for residents and $63 for nonresidents. You should however note that there are bag and length limits within state parks. Bag limits indicate the number of fish you can catch in a day and length indicates the length of the fish that you can catch.

If you are 17 years old or younger, it’s not necessary in Texas that you get your fishing license. Senior citizen fishing licenses are available to Texans that are over 65 years old. The costs of senior citizen packages are far lower than of normal fishing licenses. If you were born before 1931 don’t bother getting a fishing license in Texas because it’s not required.

  • You can get a senior freshwater fishing license for $12.
  • You can get a senior saltwater license for $17.
  • You can get a senior all-fish license for $22. [6]

If you are a minor, you should still be accompanied by an adult when fishing, especially in deeper waters.

  1. Utah

Anglers planning fishing trips in Utah must get a fishing license before they can remove any fishes from state waters. Fishing permits are issued by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) to both residents and visitors of the state. Each license to fish is categorized based on the applicant’s age, residency status and the length of time the permit is valid for.

Novice anglers can also enhance their fishing skills by participating in one of the many educational opportunities offered by UDWR. Anglers eager to create social connections with other fishing enthusiasts should consider joining a local fishing organization as well.

Utah residents can obtain residential fishing licenses at a discounted fee compared to anglers visiting the state. A resident is defined by the UDWR as individuals with fixed, permanent homes who have lived in the state for at least six consecutive months. Additionally, active-duty military members stationed in Utah and students attending a higher education institution in the state are considered residents for fishing permit purposes.

Residential fishing license options include:

  • One-Year Residential Fishing License (ages 12 and 13) costs $5
  • One-Year Residential Fishing License (ages 14 through 17) costs $16
  • One-Year Residential Fishing License (ages 18 and older) costs $34
  • You may also purchase multi-year licenses at $33 per year for up to five years.
  • One-Year Senior Residential Fishing License (ages 65 and older) costs $25
  • You may also purchase multi-year senior licenses at $25 per year for up to five years.
  • Disabled Veterans One-Year Fishing License costs $12
  • You may also purchase multi-year veteran licenses at $12 per year for up to five years.
  • Three-Day Residential Fishing License costs $16
  • Seven-Day Residential Fishing License costs $20

You should note that Residential fishing license fees are subject to change without notice.

Non Resident Fishing Licenses in Utah:

Anglers in Utah who have not lived in the state for six consecutive months are considered visitors and are therefore ineligible for residential fishing licenses. However, the UDWR offers UT nonresident fishing license options to state visitors of all ages. Nonresident fishing permit options include:

  • One-Year Non Resident Fishing License (ages 12 and 13): $5
  • One-Year Non Resident Fishing License (ages 14 through 17): $25
  • One-Year Non Resident Fishing License (ages 18 and older): $75
  • You may also purchase multi-year senior licenses at $75 per year for up to five years.
  • Three-Day Non Resident Fishing License: $24
  • Seven-Day Non Resident Fishing License: $40

Non-resident fishing license fees are subject to change without notice.

  1. Vermont

A valid Vermont fishing license is required for both resident and visiting anglers to take fish out of state waters. Administered by the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department (VFWD), each license to fish is classified based on certain factors such as the applicant’s age, residency status and the length of the fishing permit’s validity. Novice anglers are encouraged to take advantage of state fishing education opportunities as well.

Experienced anglers who would like to connect with other fishing enthusiasts can also join one of the many local fishing organizations operating throughout the state. Read the sections outlined below to find out more about how to get a fishing license in Vermont:

Anglers in Vermont planning to take fish from state waters are required to get a fishing license. Fishing permits are not required for anglers younger than 15 years of age. State recreational fishing licenses are available in one of two categories:

  • Residential Fishing Licenses
  • Non Resident Fishing Licenses

To buy fishing licenses in Vermont, you must submit a fishing permit application through the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. Anglers can choose one of the following methods for purchasing a license to fish:

  • Buy fishing licenses online through the VFWD License Purchase website.
  • Buy fishing licenses in person at a local authorized licensing agent or the Montpelier Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department office:
  • Buy fishing licenses through the mail by printing and completing a fishing license application and submitting it to the following address

Recreational fishing licenses can be obtained for time periods of one day to five years.

Anglers living in Vermont can buy fishing licenses at a discounted price in comparison to visitors. To be considered a resident of Vermont, you must have lived in the state for the six consecutive months directly preceding the date of your fishing license application submission. Residential fishing licenses are administered by the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department and include the following options:

  • Annual Fishing License: $26
  • Five Year Fishing License: $124
  • Youth Fishing License (ages 15 through 17): $8
  • Three Day Fishing License: $11
  • Combination Fishing and Hunting License: $41
  • Five Year Combination Hunting and Fishing License: $199
  • Youth Combination Fishing and Hunting License (under 18 years of age): $12

Anglers who have not lived in Vermont for six consecutive months are considered visitors and are therefore not eligible for residential fishing licenses. However, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department offers a variety of nonresident fishing licenses to visitors. Nonresident fishing license options include:

  • Annual Fishing License: $51
  • Five Year Fishing License: $249
  • Youth Fishing License (ages 15 through 17): $15
  • One Day Fishing License: $21
  • Three Day Fishing License: $23
  • Seven Day Fishing License: $31
  • Combination Hunting and Fishing License: $135
  • Five Year Combination Fishing and Hunting License: $669
  • Youth Combination Hunting and Fishing License (under 18 years of age): $30