ByHow to Obtain a Fishing License for Lake Tahoe
Located within the Sierra Nevada mountains, the sparkling waters of Lake Tahoe are a favorite destination for anglers of all ages and experience levels. The clear, cold waters contain the local favorite Mackinaw (Lake) Trout as well as Rainbow, Brook, and Brown Trout species.
However, a Lake Tahoe fishing license is required before rushing to cast your line in this scenic fishing hotspot. Licensing regulates the sport, with the collected proceeds going to conservation and other efforts that preserve fish populations.
Either a California or Nevada fishing license can be used for fishing in Lake Tahoe since the lake straddles both states. A Lake Tahoe fishing license is obtained through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's (CDFW) online license sales. They may also be obtained in person at CDFW license sales offices and from independent license agents.
However, to circumvent the lengthy online application and avoid in-person office visits, DoNotPay can provide you with a Lake Tahoe fishing license using a more user-friendly online procedure.
Who is eligible to obtain a Lake Tahoe fishing license?
Any resident or non-resident 16 years of age or older with a government-issued ID or SSN is required to obtain a Lake Tahoe . Low-income Native Americans and disabled persons can get a fishing license at no cost.
What is the cost of a fishing license for Lake Tahoe?
Lake Tahoe yearly fishing licenses are available for purchase as follows:
| Residents | $54.00 |
| Non-residents | $145.80 |
| Disabled veterans | (Reduced-fee) $8.24 at CDFW offices and $8.64 from licensing agents |
| Recovering service members | (Reduced-fee) $8.24 at CDFW offices and $8.64 from licensing agents |
| Low-income seniors | (Reduced-fee) $8.24 |
| Low-income Native Americans and those persons who are blind, developmentally disabled, or mobility impaired | Free |
Additionally, Lake Tahoe offers short-term sport fishing licenses as follows:
| One-day license for residents and non-residents | $17.54 |
| Two-day license for residents and non-residents | $27.00 |
| Ten-day license for non-residents | $54.00 |
Lifetime fishing licenses are also available at the following costs. These are available to California residents and are automatically renewed each year for life.
| Children up to 9 years of age | $594.75 |
| Ages 10-39 | $972.50 |
| Ages 40-61 | $876.00 |
| Ages 62+ | $594.75 |
Additionally, report cards are required for persons fishing for steelhead, sturgeon, abalone, spiny lobster, or salmon. This requirement is also for any person who is not required to have a sport fishing license, such as children under 16 years of age, anglers fishing off a public pier, and any person fishing on a free fishing day. The descriptions and costs of each type can be found here.
Where do you obtain a Lake Tahoe fishing license?
Fishing licenses can be purchased at the following places:
- Online at the Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) website.
- In-person at CDFW License and Revenue Branch offices and regional license counters.
- In-person with license agents.
- Online with DoNotPay in 3 easy steps
How to obtain a Lake Tahoe Fishing license online at CDFW
The CDFW's Online License Sales and Services website is used to purchase a Lake Tahoe fishing license. A GO ID is required to purchase the license first using the directions below:
- Navigate to the CDFW website.
- Before retrieving an existing record or creating a new one, you must search for an existing profile using the Customer Search Criteria box. Enter the birthdate and last name of the person purchasing the license and click Next.
- Select the document ID type you have from the drop-down menu. Fill in the required information and click Next.
- Verify the information entered and click Create New Customer Record.
- Fill in the New Customer information. Click Save.
- Upon successfully creating the GO ID, you may continue ordering the fishing license as directed.
How to use DoNotPay to obtain your Lake Tahoe fishing license online
Obtaining a fishing license using the procedure above requires a series of time-consuming steps. However, DoNotPay can get your fishing license for you by following the three easy steps below:
- Search "fishing license" on DoNotPay and select the state you would like a fishing license for.
- Indicate whether you are a resident or non-resident, and choose the type of license you want. For example, saltwater vs. freshwater license, three-day only pass, and more.
- Provide your contact information, a copy of your government-issued ID, and pay the fee required by the state.
DoNotPay will get the fishing license on your behalf which will be valid immediately. No trips are necessary to the local office of licensing agents. Just download the file and print it as a temporary license. A physical copy will be processed and sent to you by mail.
What else can DoNotPay do?
In addition to obtaining fishing licenses, DoNotPay can help you cut through red tape while saving you time and money. Use DoNotPay for help with tasks such as the following:
- Obtain a saltwater fishing license
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