Get your license through Connecticut’s official licensing system in minutes. Then use Fishbox to find the best trout streams and Sound striper spots, with weather and tide insights to time your trip.
Types of fishing license in Connecticut
Connecticut offers recreational fishing licenses for residents and non-residents. Your choice depends on where you plan to fish and how long you need your permit.
Connecticut fishing license options for residents
| License type | Where it applies |
| Resident Inland Fishing | Inland freshwater waters |
| Resident All Waters Fishing | Inland and marine waters |
| Resident Marine Fishing | Marine saltwater waters |
| Resident One-Day Marine Fishing | Short-term marine fishing |
| Trout and Salmon Stamp | Required for certain trout and salmon fishing activities |
Reduced prices are available for eligible residents aged 16–17. Residents aged 65 and older can obtain free fishing licenses, subject to annual renewal requirements.
Connecticut fishing license options for non-residents
If you’re visiting from another state, you can choose from several permits.
| License type | Where or when it applies |
| Non-Resident Inland Fishing | Freshwater fishing |
| Non-Resident All Waters Fishing | Inland and marine waters |
| Non-Resident Three-Day Inland Fishing | Short freshwater trips |
| Non-Resident Marine Fishing | Saltwater fishing |
| Non-Resident Three-Day Marine Fishing | Short saltwater trips |
Non-residents generally pay more than residents. Certain reciprocal arrangements may also allow qualifying out-of-state marine fishing licenses to be used in Connecticut’s marine district.
How much is a Connecticut fishing license?
The cost depends on residency, age, and the type of fishing you plan to do.
The following table reflects the prices in the source list for this guide. Confirm current fees and eligibility with Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) before purchasing.
Prices for residents
| License type | Price |
| Inland Fishing, ages 18–64 | $28 |
| Inland Fishing, ages 16–17 | $14 |
| All Waters Fishing, ages 18–64 | $32 |
| All Waters Fishing, ages 16–17 | $16 |
| Marine Fishing, ages 18–64 | $10 |
| Marine Fishing, ages 16–17 | $5 |
| One-Day Marine Fishing, ages 18–64 | $5 |
| One-Day Marine Fishing, ages 16–17 | $3 |
| Trout and Salmon Stamp, ages 18–64 | $5 |
| Trout and Salmon Stamp, ages 16–17 | $3 |
Prices for non-residents
| License type | Price |
| Seasonal Inland Fishing | $55 |
| All Waters Fishing | $63 |
| Three-Day Inland Fishing | $22 |
| Marine Fishing | $15 |
| Three-Day Marine Fishing | $8 |
Connecticut fishing license age requirements and exemptions
Connecticut generally requires anglers aged 16 or older to hold the appropriate recreational fishing license when fishing in inland or marine waters.
Children under 16 can fish without a recreational fishing license. Eligible residents aged 16–17 qualify for discounted rates, while residents aged 65 and older can obtain free licenses that must be renewed annually.
Connecticut fishing license exemptions
Certain anglers may qualify for free licenses or exemptions, including eligible individuals who are legally blind, intellectually disabled, or have permanently lost the use of a limb. Specific eligibility requirements apply.
Connecticut also designates Free Fishing License Days, when anglers can obtain a free license for eligible fishing activities.
Active-duty military personnel stationed in Connecticut may qualify for resident-rate licenses, subject to applicable rules.
For details, consult the Connecticut DEEP licensing website before fishing.
Where to buy
You can purchase a Connecticut fishing license online or through authorized providers.
- Online: Use the Connecticut DEEP licensing portal.
- In person: Visit an eligible DEEP office or participating town hall.
- Authorized vendors: Check local outdoor retailers and other approved license agents.
Recreational licenses generally run on a calendar-year basis and expire on December 31. Check the terms of your specific license and follow the applicable requirements for carrying or displaying it.
Fishing license for the Connecticut river
The Connecticut River offers freshwater fishing opportunities for species such as bass, catfish, and other locally available fish, depending on the location and season.
If you’re fishing in the river’s inland waters, anglers aged 16 or older generally need an inland fishing license or an All Waters Fishing License.
However, requirements can differ by location, particularly around tidal waters and areas where special regulations apply. Before heading out, check the rules for your exact fishing spot and target species.
Also review seasonal restrictions, size limits, and daily catch limits. Having a valid license does not automatically mean every species can be caught or kept year-round.
Commercial fishing license requirements
A recreational fishing license does not authorize you to catch and sell fish commercially.
If you plan to harvest fish or other aquatic species for sale, you may need a Connecticut commercial fishing license or a species-specific permit. Requirements depend on the target species, fishing method, and activity.
Commercial permits may cover activities involving bait species, blue crabs, shad, and other regulated fisheries. Fees and eligibility differ by license type.
Got your license? Plan the trip
Connecticut fishing changes with the weather and the tide. Fishbox shows you the best spots near you, plus forecasts built around weather, tides, and atmospheric conditions, so you spend less time guessing and more time catching.