A fishing license is required in every US state for freshwater and/or saltwater recreational fishing. Licenses are issued by each state's fish and wildlife agency.
7 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Determine your state's requirements — Visit your state's fish and wildlife website to learn what types of fishing require a license, age exemptions, and specific rules for your area.
- Choose your license type — Options typically include freshwater, saltwater, or combination. Duration options include daily, 3-day, 7-day, annual, and lifetime. Some states require separate licenses...
- Check for additional stamps or endorsements — Some species require additional stamps (trout stamp, salmon stamp, steelhead tag). Saltwater fishing may require a federal Recreational Saltwater Angle...
- Purchase your license — Online through your state's wildlife agency website (most common and convenient), by phone through the state's licensing hotline, in person at sporting goods stores (Walmart...
- Provide required information — Typically need a state ID or driver's license, date of birth, and Social Security number (some states). Non-residents need home state ID.
- Know the regulations — Review your state's fishing regulations for season dates, bag limits (how many fish you can keep), size limits (minimum length), legal methods, and catch-and-release areas.
- Carry your license while fishing — Have your license on your person while fishing. Many states accept digital licenses on your phone through the state's app.
Common Mistakes
- Assuming children do not need a license
- Fishing without the correct license type
- Ignoring size and bag limits
- Fishing without required stamps
- Not carrying your license
Pro Tips
- Many states offer free fishing days (typically 1-2 per year) when no license ...
- Lifetime licenses (available in many states for $200-$1,000) are cost-effecti...
- The Fishbrain and FishAngler apps help find fishing spots, track catches, and...
- National parks may have additional fishing regulations beyond state requirements
- Military personnel on active duty can often fish in their home state and stat...