Get a Potomac River Fishing License Online with DoNotPay

The historic Potomac River watershed covers four states and parts of Washington DC. Consequently, there is a lot of confusion about which fishing license you need to legally fish the Potomac River. Potomac River fisheries sport fishing licenses are unique because they're valid in two states. If you're planning on fishing the mighty Potomac near DC, you'll need an additional license.

The good news is you can get any fishing license quickly with DoNotPay!

This article explains everything you need to know about fishing licenses for the Potomac.

We'll cover four main points:

1. How to get any Potomac River fishing permit using the DoNotPay App
2. Which license you'll need to fish various points of the river
3. Pricing, discounts and exclusions
4. And other legwork you can accomplish with the DoNotPay App

Remember, DoNotPay is the world's first AI Consumer Champion. Any time you need a fishing license — anywhere — DoNotPay is the fastest and easiest way to handle it. Let's check it out.

How to Get a Potomac River Fishing License using DoNotPay

There are four licenses to choose from when fishing the Potomac, and we'll talk about those in a moment.

If you already know which license you need, DoNotPay has you covered in 3 easy steps:

1. Search "fishing license" on DoNotPay and select the state you would like a fishing license for.

2. 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.

3. Provide your contact information, a copy of your government-issued ID, and pay the fee required by the state.

Wasn't that easy? There's no need to stand in line at a bait shop or wallow around the internet, surfing fishing license apps. You don't need to share your personal information or credit card number with a creepy bait store employee. And most importantly, your personal information is safe and secure with the DoNotPay App.

Now that you know how easy it is to get a fishing license online with DoNotPay, let's discuss the specific permits you need for different points on the Potomac River.

Which Fishing License Do You Need on the Potomac River?

As we mentioned above, the most popular and useful license is the Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing License.

Where is the Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing License Valid?

It is valid on the Potomac River:

• Below the 301 Bridge
• Above the 301 Bridge
• It's also good at all Maryland and Virginia tidal waters

But it does not cover fishing in Washington DC.

Where Does the Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing License Become Invalid?

The only place on the Potomac you will need a different license is above the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. There, you'll need a District of Columbia fishing license, which you already know you can buy through DoNotPay.

What if I'm Only Fishing from the Shore in Virginia or Maryland? (But not both)

The Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing License is a bargain because it covers your recreational fishing over so much of the river. But you don't need it if you're only fishing from the shore, not traveling the river.

• Below the 301 Bridge, you'll need either a Virginia Recreational Sport Fishing License or a Maryland Bay / Tidal License.
• Above the 301 Bridge, you can use the Virginia Recreational Sport Fishing License, the Maryland Bay license or the Virginia Statewide Freshwater license.

We know that can get confusing. Remember, you can get any license quickly with DoNotPay. It makes it so easy to stay compliant on the Potomac River!

Now let's talk about pricing.

Potomac River Fishing License Fees (as of November 2021)

Tidal / Bay licenses in MD are similar to saltwater licenses in other states.

The best value is an MD Tidal / Bay license, even if you're not a resident. But it won't be valid near DC. There you'll need to spend $10 for a resident, $13 for a non-resident, or a 14-day pass for $6.50.

We know it's a lot to digest. Just remember, you can apply for any fishing license in three quick steps with DoNotPay.

Exemptions and Discounts

If you're under 16, you don't need to pay for a fishing license. If you're a disabled veteran, you're entitled to a significant discount, up to 70% at the time of writing. From time to time, there are free fishing weeks and weekends, so keep that in mind when planning your Potomac River fishing trip! While you might save a few shillings fishing for free, everyone else will be on the water then, too.

Get Any Fishing License Online with DoNotPay

Avid anglers can get their fishing permits quickly and easily, everywhere! But DoNotPay can do a lot more. Whether you need to apply for a tourist visa, find a birth or death certificate, or report trash burning in your neighborhood, DoNotPay can help. Try it now!