If standing under the hot summer sun by a lake or river with a rod in your hand sounds heavenly, then you need to get a fishing license ASAP.

A fishing license is a legal piece of paper that helps regulate and control fishing. You may require one for either commercial or recreational fishing purposes.

If you are considering making fishing a hobby, like most other hobbies, it will not stay in one place. You need it to go wherever you go.

For instance, when you go on vacation, road trips, or do other types of traveling, you will want to take your hobby along with you.

Thus, knowing the fishing license rules, fees, and regulations of all fifty U.S. states is vital. 

You must identify a saltwater fishing license that does not give you permission to fish in freshwater lakes and streams, and vice versa.

If you want the convenience of grabbing your rod and a bucket of worms anytime, anywhere, you need a legal fishing license for whichever state you are visiting.

General Fishing License Requirements

Each U.S. state offers several types of fishing licenses, and they set their own prices. All fifty states offer annual licenses, while some also provide multiple-year permits and lifetime licenses. 

However, most fishing licenses are time offered and need renewal. 

A fishing license is often required for those between the ages of 18 and 64. 

If you are under the age of 18, most U.S. states have a junior license. If you are over 64, a senior license is usually available at a reduced rate.

Other states grant license-free fishing to those age groups, members of the military, and those who are disabled.

But for those states where you must pay for a fishing license, the fees will vary significantly from state to state.

You can combine this license with hunting licenses, trout stamps, and other permits, which can help reduce its rate. 

Some states even offer a “couples license” to those who are married and it too can lower costs. Other states offer discounts to individuals who recruit first-time fishing license buyers. 

Depending on where you live in the United States, some of the license options, along with others, may be available to you when purchasing your license.

Why Purchase a Fishing License?

If watching your friends or family members fish makes you want to join in, you will need a fishing resident or non-resident license. You can buy your license online or from specific locations.

If you get one, you will do more than catch fish. In fact, you will also help the environment:

• Enhancing Water Quality
• Maintaining Fish Habitat
• Helping with Long-Term Conservation
• Protecting Aquatic Natural Places
• Teaching the Next Generation How To Do the Same

You and your fishing buddies can bond over catching fish while bettering the bodies of water all across the United States.

But first, gaining a fishing license for your state or the one you expect to travel to, must be removed from your list.

A State-By-State Look at Fishing Licenses

The focus of this state-by-state breakdown will be on fishing licenses for residents only. This includes marine, freshwater, saltwater, and other bodies of water. Fishing prices and essential information will be posted, below.

If you need further information, we highly recommend you visit your state's fishing license website and read the frequently asked questions section. This can aid you in finding important and general information about licensing.

However, prices are subject to change and may be different for non-residents. You may need to prove your age and residency. Thus, have a driver's license available when choosing a fishing license and filing a license application. 

Check with your state first to view other fishing license options.

Be aware that fishing licenses are not a license that grants you permission to take home as many fish as you can catch. 

Check your state for it most likely has bag and possession limits in place for multiple fish species. Some of these limits apply statewide. 

Other restrictions can be put in place at specific lakes and reservoirs, depending on the fish population. 

Fishing beyond bag and possession limits is illegal. If you do not abide by the fishing laws, it can result in a fine or jail time. 

1. Alabama Fishing License

The license is for residents 16 to 65 years of age who fish with rod and reel, hook and line, or from a boat in public waters. 

License Prices:

• Annual Freshwater Price: $13.85
• Annual Saltwater Price: $24.35
• Saltwater 7-Day Trip: License is valid for 168 consecutive hours. Price: $10.15

2. Alaska Fishing License

The license is for residents age 18 years or older. Also, a king salmon stamp is required to fish for king salmon. These laws apply in both fresh and marine waters. 

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing Price: $29 annual fee, $10 annual King Salmon Stamp fee.
• Annual Salmon Stamp Price: $10

3. Arizona Fishing License

Arizona offers combination fishing and hunting licenses to Arizona residents who are 10 years and older. Other aquatic wildlife is covered under a fishing license, including frogs, waterdogs, crayfish, and softshell turtles.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing Price: $57 
• Short-Term Combination Prices: $15 per day 

4. Arkansas Fishing License

People with disabilities can get a three-year fishing license for $10.50. Residents over the age of 65 can get a lifetime fishing license for $10.50.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing Price: $10.50
• Trout Permit: $5

5. California Fishing License

Lifetime fishing licenses are only available at CDFW (California Department of Fish and Wildlife) license sales offices. Most fees include a 5% license agent handling fee and a 3% nonrefundable application fee.

License Prices:

• Annual Saltwater Fishing Price: $48.34
• One-Day Sport Fishing License: $15.69
• Two-Day Sport Fishing License: $24.33

6. Colorado Fishing License

To receive a Colorado Fishing License, you must be 16 years or older. It is required if you are 16 or older. Fishing licenses for the following year become available for purchase on March 15 each year.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $25.00 to $33.00 
• Senior Annual Fishing License Price: Free to $8.00 
• Low-Income Senior Lifetime Fishing License Price: Free to $8.00 
• One-Day Fishing License Price: $8.00 to $12.00 

7. Connecticut Fishing License

In Connecticut, the Marine Waters Fishing License is also known as a Saltwater Fishing License. You must be 16 years or older to get a license. It is an annual sport fishing license that is issued on a calendar year basis. 

License Prices:

• Annual Marine Waters Fishing License Price: $10
• Annual Marine Waters Fishing License for 65 and Older Price: Free. Although it is $0, those 65 and older still need to renew their free fishing licenses each year.

8. Delaware Fishing License

Each of these license options entitles the holder to fish in any of Delaware's waters. You can also go crabbing and clamming. Licenses are suitable for the calendar year.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $8.50
• 7-Day Tourist License Price: $12.50

9. Florida Fishing License

Saltwater licenses cover both watercraft and shoreline fishing. Saltwater Shoreline License Covers saltwater fishing only from shorelines and attached structures accessible by foot. 

This license does not cover fishing from a watercraft, fishing from a shoreline reached by watercraft, or fishing while swimming or diving.

License Prices:

• Annual Saltwater License Price:$17.00
• Youth Saltwater Fishing License Price — valid until 17th birthday: $17.00
• Five-Year Saltwater License Price: $79.00
• Annual Saltwater Shoreline License: Price: $0.00

10. Georgia Fishing License

Along with needing to have a yearly fishing license, you must also have a free Saltwater Information Permit to fish in saltwater. 

A separate trout license must be additionally purchased to fish for mountain trout. Discounted 1-day licenses are also available.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $15

Other licensing options for residents include:

• 2-year licenses
• Combo hunting/fishing licenses
• All-inclusive Sportsman’s licenses
• Lifetime licenses
• Senior licenses
• Veteran’s options
• Disability Licenses

11. Hawaii Fishing License

For shoreline or boat fishing in Hawaii's ocean waters, there is no license required for marine recreational fishing. These licenses are for freshwater fishing only.

There is a $1.00 convenience fee added to the price of any online license purchase. If you prefer not to pay the cost, you may purchase your license in person.

License Prices:

• Minor Fishing License Price: $4.00
• Annual Fishing License Price: $6.00
• 7-day Tourist Fishing License Price - $11.00
• 30-day Tourist Fishing License Price: $21.00
• Senior Fishing License Price: $1.00

12. Idaho Fishing License

To fish in Idaho, you must be at least 14 years or older and have a fishing license. Residents younger than 14 years old may fish with a licensed adult and keep their own limits.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $30.50
• Annual Junior Fishing License Price: $13.50

13. Illinois Fishing License

To apply for a fishing license in Illinois, you must be between the ages of 16 and 64 years of age. Fishing in Illinois is open year-round. 

Fish you can catch with an Illinois fishing license include:

The muskellunge, tiger muskie, northern pike, walleye, sauger, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, warmouth, striped bass, hybrid striped bass, white bass, yellow bass, bluegill sunfish, crappie, trout, and salmon.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $15
• Lifetime Fishing License Price: $435
• Annual Combined Fishing and Hunting License Price: $26.25
• Lifetime Combined Fishing and Hunting License Price: $765
• 24-hour Fishing License Price: $5.50. The 24-hour license also allows you to take in salmon fish, which would generally require a stamp on an annual fishing license.

14. Indiana Fishing License

Indiana residents who are at least 64 years old and born after March 31, 1943, are eligible to buy senior fishing licenses. If 18 years old or younger and those adults born before April 1, 1943, they are not required to have a permit to fish. 

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $17
• Annual Senior Fishing License Price: $3.00
• Senior Fish for Life Price: $17

15. Iowa Fishing License

For Iowa residents, there is an additional $12.50 fee to fish for trout. You must carry a paper copy of the license at all times while fishing (a screenshot on a smartphone does not cut it). 

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $19
• One-Day Fishing License Price: $9.50
• 7-Day Fishing License Price: $13.50
• 3-Year Fishing License Price: $53

16. Kansas Fishing License

Must be age 16 through 74 years old, who has been a resident of the state for at least 60 days immediately before buying a license. Thus, you must have a resident permit in possession while fishing in Kansas.

License Prices:

• One-Time Purchase Fishing License Price: $42.50
• Multi-Year Combo Hunting/Fishing License Price: $72.50

17. Kentucky Fishing License

Be aware that for the 2019-2020 license year, the 15-day, non-resident fishing license no longer exists. Fewer than 1,000 people each year were purchasing this license.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $55
• One-Day Fishing License Price: $15
• Seven-Day Fishing License Price: $35

18. Louisiana Fishing License

You must be at least 16 years old or older to obtain a Fishing License, fishing gear, or fish that have been caught for recreational purposes in Louisiana waters.

Individuals who need a Basic or Saltwater Fishing license:

• Residents under age 16.
• Residents were born before June 1, 1940, and who have lived in Louisiana for 6 months.

However, these individuals must have proof of age in their possession whenever fishing. Also, residents born before June 1, 1940, must have appropriate gear licenses when using any legal fishing gear.

License Prices:

• Hook and Line (cane pole) Fishing License Price: $2.50
• Basic Fishing License Price: $9.50
• Saltwater (Basic Fishing License required) Fishing License Price: $13
• Senior Hunting/Fishing License Price: $5

19. Maine Fishing License

Maine residents under 16 years of age may fish without a license. An exclusive salmon license is required to fish for Atlantic Salmon in all inland waters of the state and certain designated coastal waters. 

This salmon license is required in addition to a regular fishing license in all inland water. Prices do not include the $1 agent fee.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Fee: $15
• Salmon Fishing License Fee: $15

20. Maryland Fishing License

Individuals under the age of 16 are not required to obtain a license to sportfish/crab. They can, however, purchase a recreational crab license if they want to catch the bushel of crabs allowed with that license.

The annual non-tidal license allows an individual with a permit to fish in the fresh waters of Maryland 365 days from the date of purchase.

The 7-day Non-tidal License allows the individual with the license to fish the fresh waters of Maryland for 7 consecutive fishing days.

License Prices:

• Annual Non-Tidal Fishing License Price: $20.50
• 7-Day Non-Tidal Fishing License Price: $7.50
• 3-Day Non-tidal Fishing License Price: 
• Trout Stamp Price: $5
• Resident Senior Consolidated Fishing License Price for those 65+: $5

21. Massachusetts Fishing License

If you are 15 years or older, you need a fish license in Massachusetts.

License Prices:

• Freshwater Fishing License Price: $27.50
• Minor Freshwater Fishing License Price (Age 15–17): Free
• Freshwater Fishing License Price (Age 65–69): $16.25
• Freshwater Fishing License Price (Age 70 or over) Or paraplegic, blind, intellectually disabled: Free
• 3-Day Freshwater Fishing License Price: $12.50
• Quabbin One Day Freshwater Fishing License Price: $5.00
• Saltwater Fishing Permit Price (anglers under 60): $10
• Saltwater Fishing Permit Price (anglers 60 and over): $0

22. Michigan Fishing License

All persons 65 years of age and older must obtain a "senior restricted fishing license," "senior all-species fishing license," or a “senior 24-hour fishing license” at discounted rates.

License Prices:

• 24-Hour Fishing License Price: $10
• 72-Hour Fishing License Price: $30
• Combo Hunting and Fishing License Price: $76

23. Minnesota Fishing License

You must be at least 16 years and older with a fishing license to fish in Minnesota waters unless otherwise noted. 

Residents must have their Social Security number on file with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources or provide it at the time of purchase.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $26.00
• Annual Married Couple Fishing License Price: $41.00
• Trout Stamp Price: $11.00

24. Mississippi Fishing License

Residents between the ages of 16 to 64 can fish with a freshwater license in the fresh or marine waters of Mississippi, including lakes and reservoirs. But this does NOT include privately owned ponds and streams. A saltwater license is required south of U. S. Highway 90, and a freshwater or saltwater license is valid between I-10 and U. S. Highway 90. 

Know that the Saltwater fishing license is NOT valid north of I-10. 

These fishing license prices do not include agents or processing fees.

License Prices:

• Sportsman's Fishing License Price (Does not include saltwater fishing): $45.00All Game Hunting/Freshwater Fishing License Price (Does not add Archery/Primitive Weapon/Crossbow):    $25.00
• Small Game Hunting/Freshwater Fishing License Price: $10
• 3-Day Freshwater Fishing License Price: $3.00
• Saltwater Fishing License Price: $10.00
• Senior Lifetime Saltwater Fishing License Price (Age 65 and over): $5.00

25. Missouri Fishing License

Missouri's fishing license is set to rise along with other permits, including higher prices for trout fishing enthusiasts.

If you are 15 years old or younger, you are not required to purchase a license regardless of residency. Residents of Missouri who are 65 years and older are not required to buy a fishing license.

License Prices:

• Fishing License Price: $225

26. Montana Fishing License

To fish legally in Montana, there are several licenses you must get. You can purchase online at the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks Online Licensing Site.

License Prices:

• Fishing License Price: $31 in total for a season fishing license - This amount includes $8 for the conservation license, $2 for AIS pass, and $21 for the season fishing license. 

27. Nebraska Fishing License

Residents age 69 and over are eligible for the Senior Annual Small Game Hunt/Fish/Fur Harvest Permit for $5.

License Prices:

• 1-Day Fishing License Price: $10.00
• 3-Day Fishing License Price: $31.00
• Annual Fishing License Price: $38.00
• Annual Hunt Fish Combo License Price: $52.00
• Senior Annual Hunt Fish Combo License Price $5.00
• Veteran Annual Hunt Fish Combo License Price: $5.00
• 3YR 2020-22 Fish3 Year Price: $90.50 
• 3YR 2020-22 Hunt Fish Combo All-State Stamps3 Year: Price $206.00
• 3YR 2020-22 Hunt Fish Combo Habitat Stamp3 Year Price: $191.00
• 5YR 2020-24 Fish5 Price: $132.00
• 5YR 2020-24 Hunt Fish Combo All-State Stamps5 Year Price: $308.00
• 5YR 2020-24 Hunt Fish Combo Habitat Stamp5 Year Price: $285.00
• 2020 Resident Lifetime (age 0-15) Fish Permit Price: $616.00
• 2020 Resident Lifetime (age 0-15) Hunt Fish Combo Permit Price: $859.00
• 2020 Resident Lifetime (age 16-45) Fish Permit Price: $710.00
• 2020 Resident Lifetime (age 16-45) Hunt Fish Combo Permit Price: $1008.00
• 2020 Resident Lifetime (age 46+) Fish Permit Price: $616.00
• 2020 Resident Lifetime (age 46+) Hunt Fish Combo     Permit Price: $859.00

28. Nevada Fishing License

These licenses are valid for one (1) year from the date of purchase. Adult residents may also purchase a one-day fishing license for $9 for the first day and $3 for consecutive days.

License Prices:

• Adult Fishing License Price: $40
• Youth (12-17 years old) Combo Hunting and Fishing License Price: $15
• One-Day Fishing License Price: $9 and $3 for consecutive days.

29. New Hampshire Fishing License

Anglers and hunters aged 16 and older need to be licensed to fish or hunt in New Hampshire.

You will need to pay the transaction fee only once ($2.75 online, $2 at agents).

License Prices:

• Fishing (freshwater) License Price: $45.00
• 1-Day Fishing (freshwater) License Price: $10.00
• 3-Day Fishing (freshwater) License Price: $28.00
• 7-Day Fishing (freshwater) License Price: $35.00
• Senior Fishing (freshwater) License Price: $7.00
• Recreational Saltwater Fishing License Price: $11.00
• Hunting/Freshwater Fishing Combination License Price: $56.00
• Senior Hunting/Freshwater Fishing Combination License Price: $7.00

30. New Jersey Fishing License

You must be at least 16 years and less than 70 years of age to fish the fresh waters of New Jersey, including privately owned waters. Anglers under 16 and over 70 do not require a fishing license. 

New Jersey does not require a general saltwater fishing license for recreational surfcasting, deep-sea, or bay fishing. However, saltwater anglers must register with the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program. 

License Prices:

• All-Around Sportsman (including Resident Fishing, Firearm Hunting and Bow Hunting licenses) Price: $72.25
• Resident Fishing (Ages 16-64 yrs.) Price: $22.50
• Sr. Resident Fishing (Ages 65-69 yrs.) Price: $12.50
• Resident Trout Stamp Price: $10.50
• Non-Resident Fishing (Ages 16 and up) Price: $34.00
• Non-Resident Trout Stamp Price: $20.00
• Fishing Buddy License Info: Available at a discount to two people provided one (or both) has not had an N.J. fishing license since 2010.

31. New Mexico Fishing License

If you are 12 years and older, you can get a fishing license. You must have your fishing license in your possession at all times while fishing in the state.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $25.00
• One-Day Fishing License Price: $12.00
• Five-Day Fishing License Price: $24.00
• Junior Annual Fishing License Price (age 12–17): $5.00
• Senior Annual Fishing License Price (age 65–69): $8.00

32. New York Fishing License

The license is valid for one full year (365 days) after purchase. You require a fishing license if you are over the age of 16.

License Prices:

• Annual Licensing Fee Price: $25 (ages 16-69)
• Senior Licensing Fee Price: $5 (ages 70+)
• 7-Day Licensing Fee Price: $12
• 1-Day Licensing Fee Price: $5

33. North Carolina Fishing License

A statewide inland and coastal recreational fishing license includes fishing in designated Public Mountain Trout Waters, fishing in trout waters on game lands, and fishing in joint waters. 

License Prices:

• Annual State Inland Fishing License Price: $25
• Coastal Recreational Fishing License Price: $16
• Unified Inland/Coastal Recreational Fishing License Price:$41
• Subsistence Unified Inland/Coastal Recreational Fishing License Waiver: Free (Statewide inland and coastal recreational fishing for residents who receive Medicaid, Food Stamps, or Work First Family Assistance through the county Department of Social Services.)

34. North Dakota Fishing License

If you are16 or older, you need a fishing license. Residents under age 16 may take and possess a limit of fish without a fishing license.

License Prices:

• Prerequisite for all hunting and fishing licenses: Fishing, Hunting, Furbearer Certificate (need only purchase one per year). Price: $1.00
• Combination License (age 16 or older) - includes fishing, general game and habitat, small game and furbearer licenses. Price: $50
• Veteran Combined Hunting (requires 100% service-related disability) includes general game and habitat, small game, and fur-bearer licenses Price:$3
• Fishing License - under 16 is not required, except for paddlefish tags, which are necessary for all paddlefish. Price: $16
• Married Couple Fishing License Price: $22
• Senior Citizen Fishing License (65 or older) Price: $5
• Total or Permanently Disabled Fishing License (proof of disability required) Price: $5
• Veterans with a 50% service-related disability Fishing License Price: $5
• Paddlefish (purchase one per year) Price: $1.00

35. Ohio Fishing License

If you are between the ages of 16 to 65 and have lived in Ohio for at least 6 months, you can get a fishing license.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $19
• Senior Resident Fishing License (66+) Price: $10
• 1-Day Fishing License Price: $11, and it can be used towards an annual license if you decide to fish again.

36. Oklahoma Fishing License

You must be 16 and older to get a fishing license in Oklahoma. Annual Oklahoma fishing licenses are issued every month and expire on December 31 of the same year.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $25
• 2-Day Fishing License Price: $15
• Youth Annual Fishing License Price: $5 (16 to 17 years)
• 5-Year Fishing License Price: $88
• Lifetime Fishing License Price: $225 
• Lifetime Senior Citizen Fishing License price: $15 (Turns 65 years old or older during the current calendar year).

37. Oregon Fishing License

Oregon fishing licenses are valid from January 1 to December 31.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $44.00
• Sports Pac Fishing License Price: $196.50 (includes fishing, shellfish, and hunting license; combined angling tag; spring turkey, cougar, general or controlled bear tag, elk and deer tags; upland bird and waterfowl validations.)
• Residents with Columbia River Basin Endorsement Price: $206.25
• Combo Fishing/Hunting License Price: $73
• Youth License (12-17 years old) Fishing Price: $10
• Youth Sports Pac Fishing License Price: $55 (includes fishing, shellfish, and hunting license; combined angling tag; spring turkey, cougar, general or controlled bear tag, elk and deer tags; upland bird and waterfowl validations and the Columbia River Basin Endorsement.)
• Senior Fishing License 70 years old and Oregon resident for at least 5 years. Price: $29.00
• Senior Combination 70 years old and Oregon resident for at least 5 years. Price: $47.50
• Pioneer Combination is 65 years old and an Oregon resident for at least 50 years. Price $6.00 (includes fishing and hunting license and Columbia River Basin Endorsement.)

38. Pennsylvania Fishing License

To fish in Pennsylvania, you must have a state fishing license, signed with ink, and displayed (attached to a hat or outer garment). It is required of persons age 16 and over to fish. A license is also needed to take fishbait or baitfish.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $22.90
• Annual Senior Fishing License Price: $11.90
• 1-Day Fishing License Price: $11.90
• 3-Year Fishing License Price: $64.90
• 3-Year Senior Fishing License Price: $31.90
• 5-Year Fishing License Price: $106.90
• 5-Year Senior Fishing License Price: $$51.90
• 10-Year Fishing License Price: $211.90
• Lifetime Senior Fishing License Price: $51.90

39. Rhode Island Fishing License

The freshwater license year begins March 1 and ends on the last day of February, annually. Fees are set by state law and are not subject to change.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $7 (Saltwater)
• 7-Day Fishing License Price: $5 (Saltwater)
• Freshwater Fishing License for R.I. Residents (or current members of the U.S. armed forces). Price: $18.00
• Combination (Hunting and Fishing) License Price: $33 (Freshwater).
• Freshwater Special Trout Conservation Stamp Price: $5.50
• RI Resident 65 years of age or older (permanent) Fishing License Price: Free
• Veterans with a current 100% disability, or Individuals with 100% Permanent Disability Fishing License Price: Free.

40. South Carolina Fishing License

A fishing license is required for all those 16 years and older.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $10
• 3-Year Fishing License Price: $30
• 14-Day Fishing License Price: $5
• Lifetime Fishing License Price: $300

41. South Dakota Fishing License

A valid license is required for people age 16 and older. Youth 16 to 18 must purchase the Junior Combination License, which includes fishing, as well all hunting privileges, for the same cost. Only one day limit per species.

Resident youth under age 16 are not required to have a fishing license.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $28 (Resident fishing, taking frogs or turtles.)
• 1-Day Fishing License Price: $8
• Senior Fishing License Price: $12 (65+)

42. Tennessee Fishing License

Anyone 13 years of age or older must have a current Tennessee fishing license to go fishing anywhere in the state. Exemptions are available for military personnel on leave and are a Tennessee resident.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $34 (includes a permit to hunt small game.)
• 1-Day Fishing License Price: $6.50 (Statewide)
• Annual Veternas Fishing License Price: $10
• Minors Fishing License Price: $10 (13 to 15 years old)
• Annual Senior Fishing License Price: $5

43. Texas Fishing License

The fine for fishing without a license runs $175. There are still 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 a minor, you should still be accompanied by an adult when fishing, especially in deeper waters.

License Prices:

• Annual Freshwater Fishing License Price: $30
• Annual Saltwater Fishing License Price: $35 
• Senior Freshwater Fishing License Price: $12
• Senior Saltwater Fishing License Price: $17
• All-Fish Senior Fishing License Price: $22
• You can get a senior all-fish license for $22

44. Utah Fishing License

Fishing licenses in Utah depend on your age. You do have the option to purchase “Multi-year” fishing licenses at varying prices.

License Prices:

• 1-Year Fishing License Price: $5.00 (age 12–13)
• 1-Year Fishing License Price $16.00 (age 14–17) 
• 1-Year Fishing License Price $34.00 (age 18+)
• 1-Year Fishing License Price; (age 65+)
• 1-Year Disabled Veterans Fishing License Price: $12.00
• 3-Day Fishing License Price: $16.00
• 7-Day Fishing License Price: $20.00

45. Vermont Fishing License

The second Saturday in June and the last Saturday in January are Free Fishing Days in Vermont. Residents and non-residents may fish without a license. All legal fishing methods and limits apply. 

Important Vermont Fishing Information:

• Every other day of the year, you must have a valid fishing license.

• Children under 15 never need a license to fish.

• Military Personnel of Vermont: Any resident of Vermont who certifies that he or she is serving on active duty in the armed forces of the United States. 

• If a resident is performing or is under orders to fulfill, homeland defense or stateside contingency operations for 120 or more consecutive days may obtain at no cost a hunting or fishing license or combination hunting and fishing license.

License Prices:

• Annual Fishing License Price: $28.00
• 5 Year Fishing License Price: $134.00
• Youth Fishing License Price: $8.00 (ages 15-17)
• 3-Day Fishing License Price: $11.00
• Combination (Fishing and Hunting) License Price: $47.00
• 5-Year Combination (Fishing and Hunting) License Price: $229.00
• Youth Combination (Fishing and Hunting) License Price: $12.00 (under age 18)

46. Virginia Fishing License

A valid Virginia trout license (annual or lifetime) is necessary if you are fishing in designated stocked trout waters (October 1–June 15).

License Prices:

• Sportsman’s Fishing License Price $100 (16 years or older) (includes hunting license, bear license, deer/turkey license (valid July 1–June 30), archery license, muzzleloader license, freshwater fishing license, and trout license.)
• County/City Resident Freshwater Fishing License Price: $16.00
• Resident State Freshwater Fishing License Price (age 16 and older)
• 1-year license    $23.00
• 2-year license    $44.00
• 3-year license    $65.00
• 4-year license    $86.00
• Resident State Fresh/Saltwater Fishing License Price: $39.50
• Resident Saltwater Fishing License Price: $17.50

47. Washington Fishing License

To get a Washington Fishing License, you need to be a resident, aged 16-69. 

Besides the Fishing License costs, look for other fees. For instance: Virginia State Forest Use Permit Price: $16.00 - Allows hunting, trapping, fishing, mountain biking, and horse riding. No motorized vehicles on gated roads/trails (open or closed). Sold in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Forestry.

License Prices:

• Freshwater Only Fishing License Price: $29.50
• Saltwater Only Fishing License Price: $30.05
• Shellfish/Seaweed Gathering License Price: $17.40
• Razor Specific License Price: $14.10
• Combo Fresh/Saltwater and Shellfish License Price: $55.35/year.
• Resident 65 and Over Annual Freshwater Fishing License Price: $9

48. West Virginia Fishing License

West Virginia residents who carry fishing licenses valid in West Virginia may fish on Ohio River embayments in Ohio or from the Ohio banks of the Ohio River and embayments without getting an Ohio license. 

License Prices:

• Fishing License (Class B) Price: $19
• Sportsman Hunting/Fishing/Trapping (Class X) Price: $35 - for ages 18 through 64
• Junior Sportsman Hunting/Fishing/Trapping (Class X.J.) Price: $16 - for ages 15 through 17
• Trout Fishing Stamp (Class O) Required of holders of Class B, AB-L, AB-L-I, B-L, B-L-I, F, L.L., Q, X, or X.J. Price: $10
• Conservation Stamp- Required for all licensed anglers except holders of Class X, XJ, B-L, B-L-I, AB-L, and AB-L-I, licenses. Price:$5

49. Wisconsin Fishing License

If you are over the age of 16, you need a license to catch fish in Wisconsin.

License Prices:

• First-Time Fishing License Buyer Price: $5 After that, it is $20/year
• Spouse Discount Fishing License Price: $31
• 1-Day Fishing License price: $10

50. Wyoming Fishing License

A fishing license is required for anyone ages 14 and over.

License Prices:

• Annual    Fishing License Price: $27.00  
• Daily Fishing License Price: $6.00  
• Annual Youth Fishing License Price $3.00

*Note: There may be more fishing rules, regulations, licenses, and permits per state than those listed above.

Conclusion

If you are excited to grab your tackle box, fishing gear, and rod, make sure you can legally fish in your state. Refrain from assuming, as it might cost you, a hefty fine and fishing restrictions. Make sure you are a proper state license holder and can prove it to law enforcement when asked.

Learn about fishing regulations in your region before casting your rod into the river. Find out about the dates of the fishing season, where it is legal to fish with your license and permits. Know where to fish is not permitted and if your state requires you to catch and release.

Whether you think you know your state’s fishing requirements or not, they can change over a year. Thus, check your state’s fishing and game license information, or wildlife management website. 

Review FAQs and other wildlife resources to ensure your fishing days have the appropriate licenses and are full of good, clean fun.