All 50 US states require a fishing license to fish recreationally. This guide lists the 2026 resident and non-resident annual price for every state, freshwater vs saltwater rules, senior and youth exemptions, free fishing days, and the direct link to buy from each state agency. Last updated October 2026.
All 50 US states require a fishing license to fish recreationally. Each state runs its own program through a Fish and Wildlife (or equivalent) agency, which sells licenses online, at sporting goods retailers, and at many tackle shops. Resident annual licenses in 2026 range from $5.00 in Hawaii to $64.54 in California; non-resident licenses are typically 2-5x the resident rate. Anglers under 16 are usually exempt, seniors over 65 often qualify for free or discounted licenses, and most states offer 1-3 free fishing days each year. Saltwater fishing may require an additional stamp on top of the regular license in coastal states. This page lists the current price for every state along with the direct purchase URL.
Most US states charge about $26.50 for a resident annual fishing license. The full 2026 range is $5.00 in Hawaii to $64.54 in California, and non-resident licenses are typically 2–5× the resident rate. Full cost-by-state table ↓
All 50 US states require a fishing license for most adults aged 16–64. No US state lets adults fish license-free year-round — but every state offers exemptions for children and seniors and 1–3 free fishing days a year. See the full cost-by-state table ↓
Hawaii has the cheapest resident annual fishing license at $5.00, followed by South Carolina ($10.00) and Arkansas ($10.50). The most expensive is California at $64.54.
Yes. A fishing license is required in all 50 states, and a license is generally valid only in the state that issued it — so if you fish across state lines you need one for each state. Non-resident short-term (1-day, 3-day, 7-day) licenses cover occasional out-of-state trips.
Out-of-state visitors pay non-resident rates, which range from $22.50 (Delaware) to $174.14 (California).
| State | Resident annual | Non-resident annual | Saltwater stamp | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $17.00 | $66.25 | — | Buy → |
| Alaska | $20.00 | $100.00 | — | Buy → |
| Arizona | $37.00 | $55.00 | — | Buy → |
| Arkansas | $10.50 | $60.00 | — | Buy → |
| California | $64.54 | $174.14 | $7.30 | Buy → |
| Colorado | $44.87 | $124.01 | — | Buy → |
| Connecticut | $28.00 | $55.00 | $10.00 | Buy → |
| Delaware | $11.00 | $22.50 | — | Buy → |
| Florida | $17.00 | $47.00 | — | Buy → |
| Georgia | $15.00 | $50.00 | — | Buy → |
| Hawaii | $5.00 | $25.00 | — | Buy → |
| Idaho | $33.50 | $103.75 | — | Buy → |
| Illinois | $15.00 | $31.50 | — | Buy → |
| Indiana | $23.00 | $60.00 | — | Buy → |
| Iowa | $22.00 | $48.00 | — | Buy → |
| Kansas | $27.50 | $77.50 | — | Buy → |
| Kentucky | $24.31 | $58.14 | — | Buy → |
| Louisiana | $17.00 | $68.00 | — | Buy → |
| Maine | $30.00 | $83.00 | — | Buy → |
| Maryland | $32.00 | $55.00 | $15.00 | Buy → |
| Massachusetts | $45.00 | $55.00 | $10.00 | Buy → |
| Michigan | $26.00 | $76.00 | — | Buy → |
| Minnesota | $26.00 | $52.00 | — | Buy → |
| Mississippi | $13.49 | $73.49 | — | Buy → |
| Missouri | $14.00 | $57.00 | — | Buy → |
| Montana | $33.50 | $117.50 | — | Buy → |
| Nebraska | $38.00 | $84.00 | — | Buy → |
| Nevada | $40.00 | $80.00 | — | Buy → |
| New Hampshire | $45.00 | $63.00 | — | Buy → |
| New Jersey | $22.50 | $34.00 | Free | Buy → |
| New Mexico | $25.00 | $56.00 | — | Buy → |
| New York | $25.00 | $50.00 | — | Buy → |
| North Carolina | $30.00 | $54.00 | $19.00 | Buy → |
| North Dakota | $29.00 | $73.00 | — | Buy → |
| Ohio | $25.00 | $76.96 | — | Buy → |
| Oklahoma | $31.00 | $81.00 | — | Buy → |
| Oregon | $50.00 | $138.00 | — | Buy → |
| Pennsylvania | $27.97 | $60.97 | — | Buy → |
| Rhode Island | $24.00 | $41.00 | — | Buy → |
| South Carolina | $10.00 | $35.00 | — | Buy → |
| South Dakota | $31.00 | $80.00 | — | Buy → |
| Tennessee | $49.00 | $80.00 | — | Buy → |
| Texas | $30.00 | $58.00 | $10.00 | Buy → |
| Utah | $40.00 | $120.00 | — | Buy → |
| Vermont | $28.00 | $54.00 | — | Buy → |
| Virginia | $23.00 | $47.00 | — | Buy → |
| Washington | $39.95 | $115.85 | — | Buy → |
| West Virginia | $19.00 | $50.00 | — | Buy → |
| Wisconsin | $20.00 | $55.00 | — | Buy → |
| Wyoming | $27.00 | $102.00 | — | Buy → |
Resident and non-resident annual rates where available. Prices are for reference only — verify at the official state source before buying. “—” means no separate saltwater stamp or no non-resident annual rate in our data.
See the full US Fishing License Price Index — every state ranked, with the national median & average →Who’s exempt? Compare youth ages, senior rules & free fishing days by state →
Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in Alabama are issued by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $17.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $66.25. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$17.00
Saltwater
$30.05
Combo
$38.65
Freshwater
$66.25
Saltwater
$64.90
Combo
$66.25
Priced reciprocally by home state: FW LA $70.55 / MS $75.42; SW LA $129.20 / FL $48.20 (saltwater has no MS rate)
Freshwater
$37.00
Saltwater
$35.65
Alabama residents 65 and older are exempt from buying a fishing license. Freshwater and saltwater fees verified 2026-10-06 (saltwater fee table updated Aug 29, 2025). The listed FW+SW "combo" rows are under review — Alabama sells no combo license, only a $58.35 All Access package. A $10 Gulf Reef Fish Endorsement is required for reef fish at 16+ (seniors not exempt).
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Fishing licenses in Alaska are issued by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. A resident annual license costs $20.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $100.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$20.00
Freshwater
$100.00
Freshwater
$30.00
Freshwater
$45.00
AK resident 60+: free permanent ID card (fish/hunt/trap for life)
Residents under 18; non-residents under 16
Arizona Game and Fish Department
Fishing licenses in Arizona are issued by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. A resident annual license costs $37.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $55.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$37.00
Freshwater
$55.00
Freshwater
$15.00
Freshwater
$30.00
AZ resident 70+ with 25+ consecutive years residency (Pioneer license); otherwise pays the $37 annual
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
Fishing licenses in Arkansas are issued by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. A resident annual license costs $10.50 and a non-resident annual license costs $60.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$10.50
Freshwater
$60.00
Freshwater
$30.00
Freshwater
$15.00
Freshwater
$10.50
AR resident 65+: one-time lifetime "65-Plus" license (not annual)
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Fishing licenses in California are issued by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $64.54 and a non-resident annual license costs $174.14. A separate saltwater stamp is required for saltwater fishing ($7.30). Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$64.54
Saltwater
$64.54
Combo
$64.54
One license covers freshwater and saltwater
Freshwater
$174.14
Saltwater
$174.14
Combo
$174.14
Freshwater
$32.40
Saltwater
$32.40
Freshwater
$64.54
Saltwater
$64.54
Freshwater
$10.04
CA resident only — reduced-fee for low-income seniors receiving SSI or CAPI
🌊 Saltwater Stamp Required
$7.30 · Ocean Enhancement Validation required for ocean fishing
Additional report cards required for certain species (salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, spiny lobster). Taking spiny lobster requires a Spiny Lobster Report Card ($12.70 for the season) on top of your fishing license, and the card is required even for anglers under 16 or fishing from a public pier.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Fishing licenses in Colorado are issued by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $44.87 and a non-resident annual license costs $124.01. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$44.87
Freshwater
$124.01
Freshwater
$21.90
Freshwater
$41.04
Freshwater
$12.96
CO resident 64+; exempt from the Habitat Stamp
Anglers 18–64 must also buy a separate mandatory $12.76 Habitat Stamp (not included in the license price above).
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
Fishing licenses in Connecticut are issued by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. A resident annual license costs $28.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $55.00. A separate saltwater stamp is required for saltwater fishing ($10.00). Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$28.00
Freshwater
$55.00
Freshwater
$22.00
CT resident 65+: free inland AND marine license
🌊 Saltwater Stamp Required
$10.00 · Separate CT Saltwater Fishing License required (free for residents 65+)
Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife
Fishing licenses in Delaware are issued by the Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $11.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $22.50. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$11.00
One general license covers fresh + tidal + crab/clam
Freshwater
$22.50
Freshwater
$15.00
DE resident 65+ exempt (free FIN number still required)
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Fishing licenses in Florida are issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. A resident annual license costs $17.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $47.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$17.00
Saltwater
$17.00
Combo
$32.50
Freshwater
$47.00
Saltwater
$47.00
No non-resident combo; buy freshwater and saltwater separately
Freshwater
$17.00
Saltwater
$17.00
Freshwater
$30.00
Saltwater
$30.00
FL resident 65+ fish free with proof of age and FL ID
Residents 65+ with proof of FL residency and age fish free. Gold Sportsman's License available for $100.00 covering most hunting/fishing. Prices include the statutory issuance fee.
Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division
Fishing licenses in Georgia are issued by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division. A resident annual license costs $15.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $50.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$15.00
Freshwater
$50.00
Freshwater
$24.00
Freshwater
$7.00
GA resident 65+: $7 Senior Sportsman's (or $35 lifetime). Free only if born on or before June 30, 1952.
Prices are the state base fee; retail sub-agents add a ~$3 issuance fee.
Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources
Fishing licenses in Hawaii are issued by the Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources. A resident annual license costs $5.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $25.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$5.00
Freshwater only — saltwater fishing is free in HI
Freshwater
$25.00
Freshwater
$10.00
Freshwater
$20.00
HI resident 65+ fish free
Freshwater
$3.00
Idaho Department of Fish and Game
Fishing licenses in Idaho are issued by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. A resident annual license costs $33.50 and a non-resident annual license costs $103.75. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$33.50
Freshwater
$103.75
Freshwater
$34.75
Freshwater
$56.75
Freshwater
$13.75
Hunt+fish COMBO ($11.75 price-locked) — Idaho sells NO fishing-only senior license; a 65+ angler who only wants to fish pays the standard adult annual. 6-month residency required.
Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in Illinois are issued by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $15.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $31.50. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$15.00
Freshwater
$31.50
Freshwater
$15.50
Freshwater
$7.75
IL resident 65–74
Freshwater
$1.50
IL resident 75+
Indiana Department of Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in Indiana are issued by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $23.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $60.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$23.00
Freshwater
$60.00
Freshwater
$35.00
Freshwater
$3.00
IN resident 64+: $3 annual (or $23 Fish-for-Life). Exempt if born on/before 3/31/1943.
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in Iowa are issued by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $22.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $48.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$22.00
Freshwater
$48.00
Freshwater
$20.50
Freshwater
$61.50
IA has no annual senior license; 65+ buy a one-time $61.50 lifetime
Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks
Fishing licenses in Kansas are issued by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. A resident annual license costs $27.50 and a non-resident annual license costs $77.50. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$27.50
Freshwater
$77.50
Freshwater
$27.50
Freshwater
$15.00
KS resident 65–74; residents 75+ are fully exempt
Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources
Fishing licenses in Kentucky are issued by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources. A resident annual license costs $24.31 and a non-resident annual license costs $58.14. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$24.31
Freshwater
$58.14
Freshwater
$37.00
Ages 15 and under fish free
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Fishing licenses in Louisiana are issued by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. A resident annual license costs $17.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $68.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$17.00
Saltwater
$15.00
Freshwater
$68.00
Saltwater
$60.00
Freshwater
$30.00
Saltwater
$30.00
Freshwater
$5.00
LA resident 60+ (free if born before 6/1/1940)
Louisiana restructured its license schedule in 2022–23 (Basic/Saltwater tiers, youth cutoff raised to under 18).
Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
Fishing licenses in Maine are issued by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $30.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $83.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$30.00
Freshwater
$83.00
Freshwater
$62.00
Freshwater
$66.00
Freshwater
$8.00
ME resident 70+: one-time $8 lifetime license (not free)
Prices are the state season fee; Maine adds an agent fee at checkout (amount not published by IFW).
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in Maryland are issued by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $32.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $55.00. A separate saltwater stamp is required for saltwater fishing ($15.00). Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$32.00
Freshwater
$55.00
Freshwater
$45.00
Freshwater
$12.00
MD resident 65+: Senior Consolidated (non-tidal + Bay/Coastal)
🌊 Saltwater Stamp Required
$15.00 · Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License required for tidal waters
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
Fishing licenses in Massachusetts are issued by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $45.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $55.00. A separate saltwater stamp is required for saltwater fishing ($10.00). Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$45.00
$40 base + mandatory $5 Wildlands Conservation Stamp (first resident license each year). MassWildlife offices add no fee; online adds $2.75/license + 4.95% (≈ $50).
Freshwater
$55.00
$50 base + $5 Wildlands stamp (mandatory on all non-resident licenses). Online ≈ $60.
Freshwater
$35.50
$30.50 base + $5 Wildlands stamp. Online ≈ $40.
MA residents 70+ fish free. Residents 65–69 pay a reduced $20 freshwater license.
🌊 Saltwater Stamp Required
$10.00 · Recreational saltwater permit required for anglers 16–59 ($10); anglers 60+ free, under 16 exempt, and passengers on a licensed for-hire vessel are covered by the vessel permit.
MA prints base license fees; a mandatory $5 Wildlands Conservation Stamp is added to the first resident license of the year and to all non-resident licenses (included in the prices above). MassWildlife/DMF offices charge no service fee; online and retail channels add fees.
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in Michigan are issued by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $26.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $76.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$26.00
Freshwater
$76.00
Freshwater
$10.00
$10/day, same price for residents and non-residents
Freshwater
$11.00
MI resident only; all-species senior license
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in Minnesota are issued by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $26.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $52.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$26.00
Freshwater
$52.00
Freshwater
$37.00
Freshwater
$44.00
Minnesota has no senior-discount angling license (seniors pay the resident rate); anglers 65+ are exempt from the $10 trout/salmon stamp. $26.00 is the buyer-pays total; it already includes the $1.00 issuing fee.
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks
Fishing licenses in Mississippi are issued by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. A resident annual license costs $13.49 and a non-resident annual license costs $73.49. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$13.49
Freshwater
$73.49
Freshwater
$34.49
Freshwater
$29.00
MS resident 65+ exempt for freshwater (optional $2.30 lifetime card)
Missouri Department of Conservation
Fishing licenses in Missouri are issued by the Missouri Department of Conservation. A resident annual license costs $14.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $57.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$14.00
Freshwater
$57.00
Freshwater
$9.00
Resident and non-resident alike
Missouri residents 65 and older are fully exempt (no permit needed) — the state sells no discounted senior permit.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
Fishing licenses in Montana are issued by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. A resident annual license costs $33.50 and a non-resident annual license costs $117.50. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$33.50
$8 Conservation + $21 fishing + $2.50 AIS
Freshwater
$117.50
Freshwater
$22.50
Freshwater
$16.50
MT resident 62+ total ($4 + $10.50 + $2)
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Fishing licenses in Nebraska are issued by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. A resident annual license costs $38.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $84.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$38.00
Includes Aquatic Habitat Stamp
Freshwater
$84.00
Freshwater
$37.00
Freshwater
$5.00
NE resident 69+ (or veterans 64+): $5 Senior Hunt/Fish permit — not free
Nevada Department of Wildlife
Fishing licenses in Nevada are issued by the Nevada Department of Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $40.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $80.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$40.00
Freshwater
$80.00
Freshwater
$18.00
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department
Fishing licenses in New Hampshire are issued by the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. A resident annual license costs $45.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $63.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$45.00
Freshwater
$63.00
Freshwater
$28.00
Freshwater
$7.00
NH resident 68+ (born 1948 or later); residents born on/before 1947 get a free permanent Milestone license
New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife
Fishing licenses in New Jersey are issued by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $22.50 and a non-resident annual license costs $34.00. A separate saltwater stamp is required for saltwater fishing (free). Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$22.50
Freshwater
$34.00
Freshwater
$19.50
NJ resident 70+ free; 65–69 pay $12.50
🌊 Saltwater Stamp Required
Free · NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry required but free
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Fishing licenses in New Mexico are issued by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. A resident annual license costs $25.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $56.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$25.00
Freshwater
$56.00
Freshwater
$24.00
NM resident 70+ free; 65–69 pay $8
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Fishing licenses in New York are issued by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. A resident annual license costs $25.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $50.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$25.00
Freshwater
$50.00
Freshwater
$10.00
Freshwater
$28.00
Freshwater
$5.00
NY resident 70+: $5 reduced fee (not free)
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Fishing licenses in North Carolina are issued by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. A resident annual license costs $30.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $54.00. A separate saltwater stamp is required for saltwater fishing ($19.00). Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$30.00
Freshwater
$54.00
Freshwater
$28.00
Freshwater
$19.00
NC resident 70+: one-time $19.00 Age 70 Resident Lifetime Inland Fishing License (not annual/free). No age-65 product exists; a grandfather clause lets residents born on/before 8/1/1953 qualify at 65.
🌊 Saltwater Stamp Required
$19.00 · NC requires a separate Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL), not a stamp — resident annual $19.00, non-resident annual $38.00; resident 10-day $8.00, non-resident 10-day $14.00. A $49.00 Unified Inland/Coastal Resident Annual license covers both fisheries.
North Dakota Game and Fish Department
Fishing licenses in North Dakota are issued by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. A resident annual license costs $29.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $73.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$29.00
$27 license + $2 certificate
Freshwater
$73.00
$68 license + $5 certificate
Freshwater
$53.00
$48 license + $5 certificate
Freshwater
$12.00
ND resident 65+: $10 license + $2 certificate
Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife
Fishing licenses in Ohio are issued by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $25.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $76.96. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$25.00
Freshwater
$76.96
Freshwater
$52.00
Freshwater
$10.00
OH resident 65+ born on/after 1/1/1938; born earlier is free
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation
Fishing licenses in Oklahoma are issued by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. A resident annual license costs $31.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $81.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$31.00
Freshwater
$81.00
Freshwater
$26.00
Ages 17 and under are exempt from the fishing license requirement
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Fishing licenses in Oregon are issued by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $50.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $138.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$50.00
Freshwater
$138.00
Freshwater
$29.00
One-Day Angling and Shellfish; same price for residents and non-residents
Freshwater
$117.00
Freshwater
$34.00
OR resident 70+, 5-year residency. The $10 Pioneer license needs 65+ and 50 years OR residency.
Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
Fishing licenses in Pennsylvania are issued by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. A resident annual license costs $27.97 and a non-resident annual license costs $60.97. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$27.97
Includes issuing-agent fee
Freshwater
$60.97
Includes issuing-agent fee
Freshwater
$31.97
Tourist license, includes issuing-agent fee
Freshwater
$14.47
PA resident only
Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife
Fishing licenses in Rhode Island are issued by the Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $24.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $41.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$24.00
Freshwater
$41.00
RI resident 65+: free special permanent freshwater license
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in South Carolina are issued by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $10.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $35.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$10.00
Freshwater
$35.00
Freshwater
$11.00
Freshwater
$9.00
SC resident 64+: one-time $9 lifetime. Free only if born before 7/1/1940.
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks
Fishing licenses in South Dakota are issued by the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks. A resident annual license costs $31.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $80.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$31.00
Freshwater
$80.00
Freshwater
$45.00
Freshwater
$17.00
SD resident only
Anglers 18+ must also buy a Habitat Stamp ($10 resident / $25 non-resident) — e.g. a resident annual is $31 + $10 = $41 buyer-pays.
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
Fishing licenses in Tennessee are issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. A resident annual license costs $49.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $80.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$49.00
Freshwater
$80.00
Freshwater
$40.00
Freshwater
$61.00
Freshwater
$4.00
TN resident 65+: $4 annual (or $49 permanent). Free if born before 3/1/1926.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Fishing licenses in Texas are issued by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. A resident annual license costs $30.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $58.00. A separate saltwater stamp is required for saltwater fishing ($10.00). Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$30.00
Freshwater package; saltwater $35, all-water $40
Freshwater
$58.00
Freshwater
$16.00
One-Day All-Water
Freshwater
$12.00
TX resident only; those born before Jan 1, 1931 are exempt
🌊 Saltwater Stamp Required
$10.00 · Saltwater Fishing Endorsement required for any saltwater fishing in TX
Super Combo license available at $68 covering freshwater, saltwater, and all stamps.
Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
Fishing licenses in Utah are issued by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. A resident annual license costs $40.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $120.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$40.00
Freshwater
$120.00
Freshwater
$44.00
Freshwater
$91.00
Freshwater
$31.00
UT resident only
Under 12 free; ages 12-17 pay reduced rates
Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department
Fishing licenses in Vermont are issued by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. A resident annual license costs $28.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $54.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$28.00
Freshwater
$54.00
Freshwater
$23.00
Freshwater
$60.00
VT resident 66+: one-time $60 permanent license (no annual senior)
Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
Fishing licenses in Virginia are issued by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. A resident annual license costs $23.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $47.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$23.00
Freshwater
$47.00
Freshwater
$21.00
Freshwater
$9.00
VA resident 65+: $9 annual (or $25 lifetime)
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
Fishing licenses in Washington are issued by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. A resident annual license costs $39.95 and a non-resident annual license costs $115.85. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$39.95
Saltwater
$40.71
Combo
$74.37
Freshwater
$115.85
Saltwater
$81.70
Combo
$170.00
Freshwater
$27.05
Saltwater
$27.05
1-day combination; resident $14.90
Freshwater
$48.30
Saltwater
$48.30
3-day combination; resident $25.53
Freshwater
$9.59
Saltwater
$10.35
Combo
$28.83
WA resident only
West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in West Virginia are issued by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $19.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $50.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$19.00
Base; ~$24 with the $5 Conservation Stamp most anglers must add
Freshwater
$50.00
$37 base + $13 Conservation/LE stamp
Freshwater
$16.00
Freshwater
$25.00
WV resident 65+ (on/after 1/1/2012): $25 Class XS lifetime. Free lifetime if 65 before 1/1/2012.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Fishing licenses in Wisconsin are issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. A resident annual license costs $20.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $55.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$20.00
Freshwater
$55.00
Freshwater
$29.00
Freshwater
$33.00
Freshwater
$7.00
WI resident only
Wyoming Game and Fish Department
Fishing licenses in Wyoming are issued by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. A resident annual license costs $27.00 and a non-resident annual license costs $102.00. Licenses can be purchased online at the agency website.
Freshwater
$27.00
Base; $48.50 with the mandatory $21.50 Conservation Stamp (14+)
Freshwater
$102.00
Base; $123.50 with the Conservation Stamp
Freshwater
$14.00
Freshwater
$56.00
WY resident 65+ with 30-year residency: free Lifetime Pioneer. Otherwise pays the standard resident rate.
All 50 US states require a fishing license to fish recreationally. Each state runs its own program through a Fish and Wildlife (or equivalent) agency, with prices varying from under $20 to over $50 for a resident annual license. Children under 16 are typically exempt, and most states offer discounted or free licenses for seniors over 65. Non-resident licenses are required if you fish in a state where you don't live.
Yes on both counts. Every one of the 50 states requires a fishing license, and a license is generally valid only in the state that issued it — so if you fish across state lines you need a license for each state. A few border waters have limited reciprocity (e.g. the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington), but otherwise buy a resident license for your home state and a non-resident (or short-term 1-day/3-day/7-day) license for any other state you fish.
Yes, in every state. All 50 states require a fishing license for anglers aged 16-65 in most cases. Children under 16 are usually exempt, and many states offer free or discounted licenses for seniors. Saltwater fishing may require an additional stamp on top of the regular license. If you're visiting from out of state you'll need a non-resident license, and most states sell short-term 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day options for trips — you can buy directly from each state's fish and wildlife agency, all of which are linked on this page.
Every state has its own fish and wildlife agency that sells licenses online directly. This page links to the official agency URL for every state. You can also buy licenses at most sporting goods retailers (Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, Walmart) and many tackle shops. Buying direct from the state agency avoids markup fees.
Resident annual fishing licenses range from $5.00 (Hawaii) to $64.54 (California) across the 50 states. The US median resident annual license is about $25. Non-resident licenses are typically 2-5x the resident price.
Hawaii has the cheapest resident annual fishing license at $5.00, followed by South Carolina ($10.00) and Arkansas ($10.50). The most expensive resident annual license is in California at $64.54. Non-resident visitors pay more everywhere — typically 2-5x the resident rate.
No US state lets adults fish license-free year-round — all 50 require a fishing license for anglers roughly 16-64. You can fish without a license in a few situations that apply in most states: on that state's 1-3 free fishing days each year, if you are under 16 (under 17 in some states), if you are a resident senior over 65 (often free or reduced), or when fishing on a licensed private pay-to-fish pond. Always confirm the current rules with the state agency.
It depends on the state. Some states sell a combined freshwater + saltwater license; others require a separate saltwater stamp or endorsement on top of the regular license. Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama all have saltwater-specific requirements. This page shows the stamp cost when one is required.
No. There is no national or all-states fishing license in the US — every one of the 50 states issues and requires its own, and a license is valid only in the state that issued it. If you fish in more than one state you need a license from each. A few border waters have limited reciprocity (e.g. the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington), and most states sell cheap non-resident 1-day, 3-day or 7-day licenses for exactly this situation.
Generally no. Each state requires a license issued by that state. A few states have limited reciprocity for border waters (e.g., the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington), but you should always check the specific water body's rules. If you fish across state lines, you typically need a license from each state — non-resident short-term licenses (1-day, 3-day, 7-day) are designed for this.
Most states offer 1-3 free fishing days per year — usually a weekend in June that overlaps with National Fishing and Boating Week. On these days no license is required, though all other regulations (bag limits, size limits, seasons) still apply. Check your state agency's site for the current year's free days.
Common exemptions include: children under 16 (under 17 in some states), seniors over 65 (with resident-only restrictions, often free or discounted), active military on leave (state-dependent), disabled anglers (with documentation), and anglers fishing on private property in some states. Tribal members fishing on tribal lands are also generally exempt.
MyFishingBuds matches you with compatible anglers near you by fishing style, target species, skill level, and schedule. Free forever, no credit card needed.
Find a fishing buddy →More from the learn library: