What You Pay for a California Fishing License
A California fishing license costs $16.10 for a one-year resident license if you buy it online or by phone. The price is the same whether you fish in freshwater or saltwater. If you buy in person at a retailer, you pay $17.10 because of a handling fee. Non-residents pay $24.35 online or $25.35 in person.
California also sells short-term licenses for people who fish only occasionally. A 10-day license costs $24.19 online or $25.19 in person. A one-day license costs $17.02 online or $18.02 in person. These prices explore to both residents and non-residents.
If you are under 16 or over 65 and a California resident, you do not need a license to fish. The same applies if you are a resident with a disability that prevents you from holding a rod and reel. Active-duty military members stationed in California can fish without a license.
Key Takeaways
- A one-year California resident fishing license costs $16.10 online and $17.10 at a retailer, with no difference between freshwater and saltwater.
- Non-residents pay $24.35 online or $25.35 in person for a one-year license.
- Short-term licenses are available: one day for $17.02 online or ten days for $24.19 online.
- Residents under 16, over 65, or with certain disabilities do not need a license.
- You can buy a license online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website, by phone, or at authorized retailers.
Where to Buy Your License Online or by Phone
The fastest way to get a license is through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website at wildlife.ca.gov. You create an account, choose your license type, and pay by credit or debit card. The license is issued when ready as a digital file you can print or show on your phone. You do not need to wait for anything to arrive in the mail.
You can also buy by phone by calling the CDFW licensing office at 1-888-334-2258. A staff member will take your information and process the payment over the phone. The license is then mailed to you, which takes about five to seven business days.
If you prefer to buy in person, authorized retailers include sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart locations. Call ahead to confirm the store carries licenses, because not all locations do. You walk out with your license the same day.
What You Need Before You Buy
You will need a California ID or driver's license to prove residency if you are buying a resident license. If you do not have one, you can use a passport or other government-issued ID, though you will be charged the non-resident price.
Have your Social Security number ready when you buy online or by phone. If you are buying in person, bring your ID. You do not need a fishing rod, boat, or any other equipment — just the license itself.
If you are buying a license for someone else, you will need their name, date of birth, and address. Some retailers will not sell a license for another person, so buying online is more reliable if you are purchasing as a gift.
Licenses That Last Longer Than One Year
California does not sell multi-year licenses. You renew every year on the anniversary of the date you bought it. When your license expires, you must buy a new one before you fish again.
If you fish regularly, set a phone reminder for a month before your license expires so you do not accidentally fish without one. The penalty for fishing without a valid license is a fine of at least $250 and can go much higher depending on what you caught.
Special Licenses and Stamps You Might Need
A fishing license lets you catch most fish, but some species require an additional stamp. If you want to fish for steelhead, you need a Steelhead Report Card, which is free but must be registered before you fish. If you want to fish for salmon or striped bass in certain areas, you need a Salmon and Steelhead Report Card, also free.
Abalone diving requires a separate Abalone Report Card. Lobster and crab have their own tags and seasons. Check the CDFW website or call 1-888-334-2258 to confirm what you need for the specific fish and location you plan to target.
Hunting licenses are separate from fishing licenses and cost more. If you want to hunt and fish, you need both.
When Your License Expires and How to Renew
Your license is valid for one year from the date you buy it. You can renew online, by phone, or in person using the same methods you used to buy it the first time. Renewal takes the same amount of time as a new purchase.
You can renew up to 30 days before your current license expires. If you wait until after it expires, you cannot fish until the new one is issued. If you buy online, renewal is when ready. If you buy by phone or in person, allow the same processing time as before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license if I fish on someone else's private property?
Yes. A license is required to fish anywhere in California, including private land, unless you are exempt by age or disability. The property owner's permission is separate from the license requirement.
Can I get a refund if I buy a license and do not use it?
No. Fishing licenses are non-refundable once issued. If you buy online and realize you made a mistake before the license is issued, contact the CDFW when ready to see if they can cancel it, but refunds are not may provide.
What happens if I fish without a license?
You can be cited and fined at least $250. The fine increases if you caught fish illegally. A second violation within five years can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and loss of your license for a year.
Do I need a different license for saltwater and freshwater fishing?
No. One license covers both. You do not pay extra or buy separate licenses depending on where you fish.
How long does it take to get a license if I buy by phone?
The license is mailed to you and typically arrives within five to seven business days. If you need it faster, buy online and print it when ready, or buy in person at a retailer.