What You Pay for a Washington Fishing License

A Washington fishing license costs between $30 and $50 for most adults, depending on whether you fish freshwater only or both freshwater and saltwater. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) sets these prices and updates them annually. A freshwater-only license runs $30.06 for residents; a combination freshwater and saltwater license is $50.05. If you fish saltwater only, that's $27.07. These are the 2024 prices—they typically increase slightly each year.

You can buy a license for one day, three days, or the full year. A one-day freshwater license costs $10.50; a three-day license is $20.06. The one-day and three-day options are useful if you fish occasionally or are visiting the state. Licenses are valid from the date you purchase them, not from January 1st.

Certain people fish for free or at a discount. Washington residents age 69 and older do not need a license. Children under 16 can fish without a license if they are supervised by a licensed adult. Disabled residents may be may be able to access for a free or reduced-price license through WDFW's disability program.

Key Takeaways

  • A one-year freshwater license for Washington residents costs $30.06; a combination freshwater and saltwater license is $50.05.
  • One-day and three-day licenses are available at lower prices if you do not fish regularly.
  • You can buy licenses online through the WDFW website, by phone, or at sporting goods retailers and tackle shops.
  • Seniors age 69 and older, children under 16 with a licensed adult, and some disabled residents do not need to pay.
  • Your license is valid from the date you purchase it, not from the calendar year.

Where to Buy Your License

The fastest way to buy a license is online at the WDFW website (wdfw.wa.gov). You can purchase and print your license when ready, or have it sent to your phone. You will need your Washington driver's license or ID number to complete the purchase online.

You can also buy a license by phone by calling the WDFW licensing office at 1-866-246-9453. Staff can process your order and mail the license to you, though this takes several business days. Many sporting goods stores, tackle shops, and outdoor retailers throughout Washington also sell licenses over the counter—call ahead to confirm they have the type you need in stock.

Freshwater vs. Saltwater vs. Combination Licenses

A freshwater-only license lets you fish in lakes, rivers, and streams. This covers most inland fishing in Washington and is the least expensive option at $30.06 per year. It does not cover Puget Sound, the Pacific Ocean, or any saltwater areas.

A saltwater-only license costs $27.07 per year and covers fishing in Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean. It does not cover freshwater. This is useful if you fish only from a boat or pier in saltwater areas.

A combination license at $50.05 per year covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing. If you plan to fish in both environments, this is more economical than buying two separate licenses. Most anglers in Washington buy the combination license for flexibility.

Short-Term Licenses for Occasional Anglers

If you fish only a few times a year or are visiting Washington, short-term licenses save money. A one-day freshwater license is $10.50 and is valid for 24 consecutive hours from the time you purchase it. A three-day freshwater license is $20.06 and covers three consecutive calendar days.

One-day and three-day licenses are available for saltwater fishing as well: one-day saltwater is $10.50, and three-day saltwater is $20.06. You cannot buy a one-day or three-day combination license—you must choose freshwater or saltwater for short-term purchases.

Short-term licenses are sold online, by phone, and at most retailers that carry full-year licenses. Print your license when ready or display it on your phone when you fish.

Who Does Not Need a License

Washington residents age 69 and older do not need a fishing license. You will need to show proof of age (a driver's license or ID) if a fish and wildlife officer asks, but you can fish without purchasing one.

Children under 16 can fish without a license as long as a licensed adult age 16 or older is with them and supervising. The adult must have their own valid license. This applies to both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Disabled Washington residents may be may be able to access for a free or reduced-price license. Contact WDFW directly at 1-866-246-9453 to learn whether you may have access to and what documentation you need to provide. may be able to access varies based on the type and severity of disability.

License Validity and Renewal

Your license is valid from the date you purchase it for the period you bought—one day, three days, or one year. It does not reset on January 1st or any other calendar date. If you buy a one-year license on March 15, it expires on March 14 of the following year.

You can renew your license at any time before it expires. Many anglers renew online a few weeks before expiration to avoid any gap in coverage. If your license expires while you are fishing, you are fishing illegally and can be cited.

Keep your license with you whenever you fish. You must show it to a fish and wildlife officer if asked. Digital licenses displayed on your phone are acceptable.

What Your License Covers and Does Not Cover

Your fishing license allows you to fish for most species in Washington's public waters. It does cover trout, salmon, steelhead, bass, walleye, and most other game fish in freshwater or saltwater, depending on your license type.

Your license does not cover fishing on private property without the owner's permission. It also does not cover shellfish harvesting (clams, oysters, crab, shrimp)—those require a separate shellfish license. Some species have additional restrictions: certain salmon runs are closed to fishing, and some areas require special permits or tags beyond your base license.

Check the WDFW website or the current fishing regulations pamphlet before you fish to confirm the species and area you plan to fish are open. Rules change seasonally and by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a license for someone else as a gift?

Yes. You can purchase a license online or by phone using the recipient's information, and they can print it or display it on their phone. If you buy it in person at a retailer, you will need the recipient's driver's license or ID number to complete the purchase.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Washington state law. A fish and wildlife officer can cite you and impose fines. Penalties vary but typically start at $100 or more. It is cheaper and easier to buy a license before you fish.

Do I need a separate license to fish in a private pond on my own property?

No. You do not need a license to fish in a pond on your own property. However, if the pond is on someone else's land, you need their permission and a valid license.

Can I use my Washington license if I fish in another state?

No. Each state has its own licensing system. If you fish in Oregon, Idaho, or another state, you must buy that state's license. Some states offer reciprocal agreements, but Washington does not currently have them with neighboring states.

How do I report a lost or damaged license?

Contact WDFW at 1-866-246-9453 and provide your purchase information. They can issue a replacement or reprint your digital license. There may be a small replacement fee depending on how you originally purchased it.