ByThe Fast and Easy Way to Get Your Fishing License Online
There are hundreds of popular fishing spots all over the United States. From Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire to Lake George in New York on to the Great Lakes, covering multiple states, and into Canada, Lake Powell in Utah, to Yellowstone Lake in Wyoming, and many more spots, fishing is serious fun across the country. There is even more fishing in the USA found off the coasts of the many states that border the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans as well as the Gulf of Mexico.
Getting a fishing license is a requirement in all states to enjoy fishing, whether you’re on a lake, river, or the ocean. This can be a confusing and time-consuming task to complete when you’re going anywhere on vacation or even taking a short fishing trip. This is where DoNotPay can help make getting your quick and easy.
Eligibility for Fishing Licenses Vary from State to State
Every state offers different licenses for residents and non-residents. For the most part, you can expect that every adult will be required to have a fishing license.
Age requirements vary from state to state regarding who needs a fishing license and how much it will cost. In most states, children younger than 16 will not need one, but they might need to be with a licensed adult while they fish.
Some bordering states offer reciprocity, especially if they have dual jurisdiction over the same body of water. Other states require additional fishing licenses depending on what type of fish you catch.
What Kinds of Fishing Licenses are There?
There are two types of essential fishing licenses across the United States:
| Saltwater licenses | Saltwater licenses allow you to fish inshore or offshore on oceans and seas. |
| Freshwater licenses | Freshwater fishing takes place in most lakes and rivers in just about any state. |
Some states will combine fishing with other licenses, such as hunting. Some states require additional licenses or permits to fish in particular waters or catch certain species. There may be licensing requirements based on the fishing gear used or the boat you plan to fish from.
Fishing License Costs Vary
State fishing license fees will vary based on residency status and length of time, so be sure to purchase the type of license that best suits your needs. You may be required to pay a service fee when purchasing a fishing license online or via phone with an agent.
The general fees will be more expensive for those who want to fish from out of state (non-residents). Multi-year fishing licenses can often save you money over the long term. The need to get a license can also vary. Some of those who may have special discounts or requirements include:
- Veterans, active-duty military, national guard, and reserve members are generally eligible for free or reduced licensing fees
- Many states offer varying senior discounts or even lifetime licenses as long as they maintain residency in their state
- Disabled individuals can expect to be exempt or receive a discount
- Native Americans may also be eligible for exemptions or discounts
- Group and sponsored fishing trips and family outings have special rules in some states
Temporary Licenses
Like annual fishing licenses, the availability of temporary fishing licenses varies by state. States often offer 1-day, 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day licenses. Check to see if these temporary licenses must be used consecutively or if you can spread them out.
How to Get a Fishing License Online on Your Own
Though licenses can be purchased in person at several retail establishments, buying a fishing license online is probably the most preferred way to go. Frequently, you will have to navigate a confusing, outdated government website and sift through a lot of information. Usually, there isn’t an agent you can chat with through these sites if you have questions.
All U.S. states have individual requirements to get a fishing license. There are many types of licenses and eligibility requirements for several programs. Applicants have to know the requirements before applying in more cases.
There are multiple steps needed to get a fishing license online on your own. Many states have set up websites that include all fish and game licenses. The applicant must register on the website before accessing the portal for fishing licenses. One has to go through the entire registration process before knowing the eligibility and cost of the available fishing licenses.
The process of buying a fishing license can be daunting. An alternative to signing up for each state's website to get a fishing license is to go to and find a local store that sells them. Many retail establishments sell fishing licenses, but associates are likely busy helping shoppers, so it can take a while. They are also less likely to know the answers to any questions you may have. In addition, many stores only offer very basic fishing licenses for angling.
Getting a fishing license on your own can be a frustrating and time-consuming process. Luckily, DoNotPay can help you get your fishing license online with minimal effort and save you the hassle of navigating through complicated websites.
What Alternatives Do People Have to Get a Fishing License Online?
There are ways to get a fishing license online without worrying about time-consuming, stressful processes. DoNotPay has a suggestion for you.
When you with DoNotPay, we assure you of:
- Guaranteed success
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Three Quick Steps to Obtaining an Online Fishing License With DoNotPay
- 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 has designed a common sense way to get things done, quickly and efficiently.
DoNotPay Works Across Many Established Venues
People run across all kinds of barriers trying to access information and services from city to city and state to state. DoNotPay works across these lines and pulls things together to help people find solutions to numerous common problems more efficiently. These difficulties range from logging in to websites, finding a birth certificate, changing an address, or getting a parking ticket paid across the country. The list is almost endless.
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