Getting a fishing license is an essential first step for anyone eager to cast a line and enjoy the great outdoors. Fortunately, the days of waiting in long lines or hunting down local vendors are long gone—now, you can easily purchase your fishing license online.
Whether you’re fishing for the first time or looking to renew an expired license, the online process is straightforward, convenient, and often immediate. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of getting your fishing license online, including where to go, what information you’ll need, and tips to make the process smooth and hassle-free.
Let’s dive in so you can get back to what you love: fishing!
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Why purchase a Fishing License Online?
- Your contribution helps protect our natural resources and keep them healthy for future generations
- There are many places to use your fishing license. These include freshwater reservoirs, public fishing lakes, rivers and streams
- It’s easy to order your fishing license online
- You’ll be following the law and avoiding unecessary fines and consequences.
Which states require a fishing license?
All 50 states, plus Washington D.C., require fishing licenses for both residents and non-residents fishing in public waters. However, each state sets its own rules regarding:
- License types (annual, daily, saltwater, freshwater)
- Fees based on residency, age, and duration
- Exemptions for specific groups (e.g., children under a certain age, seniors, military members, and in some cases, persons with disabilities)
Common Exemptions by State
Some states offer exemptions on specific days, often called “Free Fishing Days”. These are special days when no license is required to fish. Additionally, some states waive fishing license requirements for fishing on private property or during certain events, like fishing derbies.
To know the exact requirements and costs in your area, visit your state’s wildlife or natural resources department website.
How much does a Fishing License Cost?
Fishing license fees can vary widely by state, residency status, type of water (freshwater vs. saltwater), age, and sometimes even specific fish species. However, here’s a quick overview of the fees you may expect in each state.
Most are under 100 dollars which leads to some super affordable fun all year round!
| State | Resident Annual | Non-Resident Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $14 | $54 |
| Alaska | $20 | $100 |
| Arizona | $37 | $55 |
| Arkansas | $10.50 | $50 |
| California | $58.58 | $158.25 |
| Colorado | $36.08 | $102.40 |
| Connecticut | $32 | $63 |
| Delaware | $8.50 | $20 |
| Florida | $17 | $47 |
| Georgia | $15 | $50 |
| Hawaii | No fee for residents | $20 |
| Idaho | $30.50 | $108.00 |
| Illinois | $15 | $31.50 |
| Indiana | $17 | $35 |
| Iowa | $22 | $48 |
| Kansas | $27.50 | $52.50 |
| Kentucky | $23 | $55 |
| Louisiana | $9.50 | $60 |
| Maine | $27 | $64 |
| Maryland | $20.50 | $30.50 |
| Massachusetts | $27.50 | $37.50 |
| Michigan | $26 | $76 |
| Minnesota | $25.50 | $51 |
| Mississippi | $10.50 | $30 |
| Missouri | $12 | $49 |
| Montana | $21 | $86 |
| Nebraska | $15 | $61 |
| Nevada | $40 | $80 |
| New Hampshire | $45 | $63 |
| New Jersey | $22.50 | $34 |
| New Mexico | $25 | $56 |
| New York | $25 | $50 |
| North Carolina | $25 | $45 |
| North Dakota | $18 | $48 |
| Ohio | $25 | $50 |
| Oklahoma | $25 | $55 |
| Oregon | $44 | $110 |
| Pennsylvania | $23.50 | $51.90 |
| Rhode Island | $18 | $34 |
| South Carolina | $10 | $35 |
| South Dakota | $28 | $67 |
| Tennessee | $34 | $50 |
| Texas | $30 | $58 |
| Utah | $34 | $85 |
| Vermont | $28 | $54 |
| Virginia | $23 | $47 |
| Washington | $30.05 | $59.75 |
| West Virginia | $19 | $37 |
| Wisconsin | $20 | $50 |
| Wyoming | $27 | $102 |
Where Can I Get a Fishing License Online?
Use the map below to select your state and it will take you to all the specific details as to how to get a fishing license online!
What Happens if I get Caught Without a Fishing License?
I know I know, sometimes going through the motions of getting a fishing license can seem like jumping through hoops. However, fishing without a license can result in serious consequences, which vary by state but often include fines, penalties, and even potential misdemeanor charges.
First-time offenders might receive a fine ranging from $50 to $500, depending on the state, while repeat offenders face higher penalties. In some states, additional penalties apply if you’re caught with illegal catches or fishing during restricted seasons.
Officers may also confiscate your precious fishing gear or issue a court summons in severe cases. Most states allow violators to buy a license after the fact to settle minor offenses, but repeat violations can lead to suspension of fishing privileges, higher fines, and mandatory court appearances.
So in short, it’s just not worth it to skip the license (especially with how easy it is to grab a fishing license online in 2024!)
Okay, now what?
After you get a fishing license from your state, it’s time to GO fishing. Use the Find a Fishing Spot Map from Take Me Fishing to plan your next trip!
Or, check out some of our other helpful guides to help you get starting fishing!
