Fishing License Cost Lookup
Find fishing license costs for any US state. Includes resident, non-resident, youth, and senior rates plus add-ons.
Select a state and enter your details to look up license costs.
About Fishing Licenses
Every US state requires anglers to hold a valid fishing license, with fees funding conservation efforts including fish stocking, habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, and access area maintenance. License fees are one of the primary funding sources for state wildlife agencies, contributing billions of dollars annually to conservation through the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act (Dingell-Johnson Act).
License Types
Most states offer several license categories: standard adult (ages 16-64), youth (under 16, often free), and senior (65+, typically discounted). Non-resident licenses cost more than resident licenses in every state. Many states also offer short-term licenses (1-day, 3-day, 7-day) for visitors and occasional anglers, as well as lifetime licenses.
Add-On Stamps
Some states require additional stamps or permits for specific species. Trout stamps are the most common, required in states where trout are stocked in streams and lakes. Other common add-ons include saltwater fishing endorsements, salmon/steelhead tags, and special permits for protected waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, in virtually all US states, anyone age 16 or older needs a valid fishing license to fish in public waters. Many states offer free licenses for youth under 16, and some states have free fishing days where anyone can fish without a license. Military personnel, disabled veterans, and Native Americans may qualify for exemptions or discounts in certain states.
How much does a fishing license cost?
Resident fishing licenses typically range from $10-$55 depending on the state. Non-resident licenses are always more expensive, typically $25-$145. Youth licenses are free in most states, and senior licenses are discounted in many states. Additional stamps or endorsements (trout, saltwater, etc.) add $5-$25 each.
Do kids need a fishing license?
Most states do not require a fishing license for children under 16. Some states set the exemption age at 12 or 14. In many states, youth can fish for free, while others offer youth licenses at very low cost ($0-$10). Children typically still need to follow all other fishing regulations including catch limits and size restrictions.
What about catch and release?
Yes, you still need a fishing license for catch and release. The license requirement applies to the act of fishing, not to keeping fish. The only exceptions are specific free fishing days designated by state wildlife agencies, which typically occur a few times per year.