Where to Get a Fishing License Near Me?
According to Statista, over 50 million Americans engaged in freshwater, saltwater, and fly fishing in 2019, making this the highest fishing participation rate in a decade. The truth is, fishing is a fun activity, whether you're taking it as a hobby or a large-scale commercial venture.
But here's the kicker! Fishing in any United States Waterways requires a fishing license, and failure to comply may land you in trouble. If you're wondering where to get a fishing license, you'll have to apply for one from the relevant state authorities and dealers.
The problem is, it can be a little daunting when doing it yourself. The good news is without any trouble.
Here's what you need to know about fishing licenses in the United States.
Who Is Eligible to Get a Fishing License?
Fishing is a major recreational and commercial activity in the United States, attracting thousands of people country-wide. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 100% of fishing license fees are used to conserve and restore U.S. waterways.
In 2018, over $700 million was collected from fishing licenses across the county. Therefore, one (minors, veterans, seniors, and disabled) should be a resident or non-resident to be eligible for a fishing license. However, it would help if you were aged 16 years and above.
According to fishing.org, a fishing license is required for individuals between 18 and 64. Those below 18 usually require a junior license, and above 64-year-old anglers require a senior license.
What Are the Different Types of Fishing Licenses?
Many factors come into play to determine the fishing licenses required in the United States. The licenses are determined by: the state you are fishing in, type of water body, fishing duration, type of fish, fishing method, residential status, the purpose of fishing, age, and activity in the military.
That being said, the main types of fishing licenses in the United States include;
- Freshwater license: This is the license you need if you intend to fish in freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams.
- Saltwater license: This is the license you need if you plan to go fishing in saltwater or a mixture of salt and freshwater.
- Commercial license: This license is meant for anglers intending to sell their catch.
- Non-Resident license: This license is temporary and meant for non-resident anglers.
- Combination license: This license permits an angler to participate in freshwater and saltwater fishing.
- Junior and Fishing license: These licenses are specific to junior and senior anglers.
- Lifetime license: These licenses often don't require an annual subscription.
- Federal permits: You need a special NOAA permit to fish in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and the Caribbean sea waters, especially when fishing in some States like New York.
How to Get a Fishing License by Yourself
is the first step to actualizing your fishing hobby. However, the requirements and processes vary from one State to another. On average, it costs residents an annual subscription fee of $25 to get a fishing license. On the other hand, non-residents are charged an average of $60 to $70.
There are several ways to get a fishing license for anglers. These include:
- Online or through mobile applications (android and Apple),
- License issuing agents
- County treasurer offices
- Fish and boat commission offices
Also, some states have a toll-free calling line anglers can use to order fishing licenses.
Applying for a fishing license is a straightforward process. However, it can be pretty daunting when doing it alone for the first time. Also, though there are multiple avenues to get a fishing license, choosing the best one can be a hurdle when it's your first time. So, you're likely to make several mistakes.
Next Steps for Getting a Fishing License if You Can't do it Yourself
For one reason or another, you may not be in a position to apply for a fishing license by yourself. In that case, you can either give up your dream of becoming a licensed angler or find someone to help you out. The best part is, you don't have to give up when DoNotPay can come to your rescue.
How to get your fishing license using DoNotPay
If you want to get your fishing license but don't know where to start, DoNotPay has you covered in 3 easy steps:
- 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.
That’s it! After you’ve done the basics, you can leave all the hard work to us here at DoNotPay.
Why Use DoNotPay to Get a Fishing License
may seem simple but if you already have your hands full, it can be exhausting and frustrating. DoNotPay can handle it for you. App users have witnessed that we are:
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