What Indiana Fishing Licenses Cost

An Indiana resident fishing license costs $17.95 for a one-year license. A three-day license is $9.95. Non-residents pay $30.95 for a one-year license or $15.95 for a three-day license. These prices cover freshwater fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams across the state.

If you fish in both freshwater and saltwater (which applies mainly to people fishing in coastal areas while traveling), you would need separate licenses, but Indiana's primary license covers freshwater only. Children under 17 do not need a license to fish in Indiana, though they must follow all other fishing rules.

You can purchase a license online through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website, by phone, or at authorized retailers like sporting goods stores and some bait shops. Online purchase is the fastest option and takes effect when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • Indiana resident one-year licenses cost $17.95; three-day licenses are $9.95.
  • Non-residents pay $30.95 for one year or $15.95 for three days.
  • Children under 17 do not need a license but must follow all fishing regulations.
  • You can buy licenses online through the Indiana DNR website, by phone, or at sporting goods retailers.
  • Your license takes effect when ready when purchased online and is valid for one year from the purchase date.

Where to Buy Your License

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources sells licenses directly through their website at on.IN.gov/BuyHuntFish. You can complete the purchase in minutes and receive your license number by email. Print the confirmation or show it on your phone when you fish.

If you prefer to buy in person, visit any authorized retailer. These include Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops, Walmart, Meijer, and local bait and tackle shops. Call ahead to confirm they sell Indiana licenses, since not every location carries them. Retailers charge the same price as the DNR website.

You can also call the DNR directly at 317-232-4200 to purchase over the phone. Have your driver's license or ID ready, and they will mail your license to you or provide a temporary number you can use when ready.

License Types Beyond the Standard One-Year

Indiana offers a few variations on the standard license. The one-day license costs $7.95 for residents and $11.95 for non-residents, making it useful if you fish only occasionally. A lifetime license for residents costs $297.95 and never expires—this is worth considering if you plan to fish regularly for many years.

Disabled veterans and people with certain disabilities may may have access to for reduced-cost or free licenses. Contact the Indiana DNR directly to learn what documentation they need. Senior residents (age 65 and older) do not receive a discount on the standard license but may may have access to for other state hunting and fishing benefits.

What Your License Covers and Does Not Cover

Your Indiana fishing license lets you fish in public freshwater areas: lakes, rivers, streams, and reservoirs managed by the state. It does not cover private property—you still need the owner's permission to fish on private land. The license also does not cover trout fishing in designated trout streams, which requires a separate trout stamp costing $9.95.

Your license covers all legal fishing methods unless you are using a specific technique that requires its own permit. For example, if you want to use a net or trap, you need a separate commercial or subsistence license. Spearfishing and bowfishing also have their own rules and may require additional permits.

The license is valid for one year from the date you purchase it, not from January 1. If you buy a license on March 15, it expires on March 14 of the next year.

Trout Stamp and Special Permits

If you plan to fish in Indiana's designated trout streams, you must buy a trout stamp in addition to your regular fishing license. The stamp costs $9.95 and is valid for one year. Trout streams are scattered across northern Indiana and are stocked regularly by the DNR.

You do not need a trout stamp to fish for trout in lakes and reservoirs—only in the specific streams the DNR designates. The DNR website lists all trout streams and shows which ones are currently open to fishing. Some close seasonally for restocking.

Checking License Status and Renewal

Your license number appears on your confirmation email or receipt. Keep this number with you when you fish—a game warden may ask to see it. If you lose your confirmation, you can look up your license on the Indiana DNR website using your name and date of birth.

Licenses do not renew automatically. You must purchase a new one when your current license expires. The DNR does not send renewal reminders, so mark your calendar or set a phone reminder for one week before your expiration date. Fishing without a valid license can result in a fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish in my backyard pond?

No, if the pond is on your own property and you own it outright. If you rent or the pond is shared, you need permission from the owner. Public ponds and lakes always require a license.

Can I use someone else's license?

No. Your license is tied to your name and ID. Each person fishing must have their own valid license. Children under 17 are the only exception and do not need one.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Indiana considers it a violation of state fishing law. Penalties include fines starting at $25 and can go much higher depending on the circumstances. A game warden can check your license at any time while you are fishing.

Can I get a refund if I buy a license and don't use it?

The Indiana DNR does not issue refunds for unused licenses. Once purchased, the license is valid for one year from the purchase date, so you have time to use it.

Is there a discount for military or seniors?

Disabled veterans may may have access to for reduced-cost licenses—contact the Indiana DNR at 317-232-4200 to ask about your specific situation. Senior residents do not receive a discount on the standard license price.