US Fishing License Age Requirement

Fishing licenses are an essential tool used by state governments and fisheries bodies to not only understand how many people are utilizing the state’s resources but also as a tool to raise money to protect and grow those fisheries for future generations of anglers to enjoy just as much as we enjoy them today.

Before you cast a line, regardless of where you’re fishing and in what state, if you’re taking a young person fishing, check out the local fishing licensing regulations and rules.

In the following guide to US Fishing License Age Requirements, we’ll cover:

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General Age Requirements 

As you travel around the United States enjoying different states and their fishing opportunities, you must understand fishing license regulations before you start fishing. Fees from fishing licenses paid to state agencies return to protecting fishing habitat, research, studies, access, fish stocking, and much more.

In most cases, fishing licenses and their associated costs are set based on both age and residency status. Typically, adult fishing licenses start at the age of 18. Under that, there generally are youth angling licenses for teenagers aged between 16 and 18, which are available at a reduced cost. While many states offer free licenses for children up to 16, it varies from state to state, so be sure to check local regulations before going fishing.

State-Specific Age Requirements

Exemptions and Special Cases

Regardless of which state you’re fishing in, some exemptions are typically set in place. Some of these exemptions include, but are not limited to:

• Landowners who are fishing in waters such as dams and ponds, which are 100% private property and not connected to state waterways, including their immediate family.
• Residents and non-residents on leave from active military duty.
• Youth anglers are fishing with an adult with a valid fishing or angling permit for the state where they’re fishing.
• Anglers with disabilities.
• Senior anglers who have reached a certain age.
• State-sponsored free-fishing days where anglers can participate in license-free fishing days or weekends.

US Fishing License Age Requirement | Conclusion

While many states in the US have the exact age requirements for fishing and angling licenses, there are also quite a few, which vary depending on age and whether or not you’re a resident or non-resident. Before casting a line, checking the state licensing requirements is essential.

The money you spend purchasing a fishing license goes directly back into the state’s conservation and management of fisheries, fish stocking, habitat improvement and management, research, and much more. By being a responsible angler, purchasing a fishing license, and following season, size, and bag limits, you’re ensuring that you’re contributing directly to a healthy and long-lasting local fishery.

Ready to Get Your
Personal Hot Spots Map?

Select the type of water you
usually fish in:

• Fresh
• Salt

The premium fish forecasting application, Fishbox App, will put you in the perfect position to catch some great fish by analyzing local weather and water conditions and input from local anglers. The Fishbox App utilizes accurate weather, tide, and fishing conditions to predict the best time to get out on the water to catch your target species.

Do you have any advice to share with other anglers before they plan their US fishing trip or for new anglers just starting? Drop a comment below! We love hearing your thoughts and feedback, and we’re sure new anglers will appreciate it.