What You'll Pay for a California Fishing License

A California fishing license costs between $16 and $157 depending on what you want to fish for, how long you want the license to last, and whether you live in the state. A one-year resident license for freshwater fishing is $16. A one-year resident license that covers both freshwater and ocean fishing is $47. Non-residents pay more: $142 for a one-day license, $32 for a two-day license, or $157 for a one-year license.

These prices are set by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and have not changed since 2018, though the department can adjust them. If you fish without a valid license, you face fines starting at $250 and can be charged with a misdemeanor.

Key Takeaways

  • California resident one-year freshwater licenses cost $16; freshwater and ocean combined cost $47.
  • Non-residents pay $142 for a one-day license, $32 for two days, or $157 for one year.
  • You can buy licenses online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website, by phone, or at authorized retailers like sporting goods stores.
  • Certain people—including seniors 65 and older, disabled veterans, and Native Americans—may pay reduced rates or nothing at all.
  • Your license becomes valid the day you buy it and expires one year later on the same date.

License Types and What Each One Covers

California offers separate licenses for different kinds of fishing. A freshwater license lets you fish in lakes, rivers, and streams but not the ocean. A combination license covers both freshwater and ocean fishing and costs $47 for residents. If you only want to fish the ocean, a ocean license costs $47 for residents as well.

You also have the option of a short-term license if you do not fish often. A 10-day license costs $24 for residents. A two-day non-resident license costs $32. A one-day non-resident license costs $142. These short-term licenses are useful if you are visiting California or trying fishing for the first time.

Some people fish without a license under specific rules. You do not need a license if you fish from a public pier, wharf, or jetty in most cases. You also do not need one if you are under 16 years old, though you must follow all other fishing rules. Check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website to confirm the rules for your specific location, because some piers and wharves have their own restrictions.

Who Pays Reduced Rates or Nothing

California offers free or discounted licenses to certain groups. Residents 65 and older can get a one-year freshwater license for free. Disabled veterans with a service-connected disability rated at 50 percent or higher by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs can get a free license. Native Americans who are enrolled members of a federally recognized tribe can also get a free license.

Residents with a disability can get a discounted license for $7. You will need to provide proof of your disability status when you purchase. Blind or partially sighted residents can fish for free with proof of their condition.

Where to Buy Your License

You can buy a California fishing license online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website at wildlife.ca.gov. The online purchase takes about five minutes, and your license is valid when ready. You can print it at home or show it on your phone.

You can also buy a license by phone by calling 1-888-334-2258. A representative will process your purchase and mail the license to you, though it will take several days to arrive. If you need a license right away, buy online instead.

Authorized retailers throughout California also sell licenses, including most sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart and Target locations. Call ahead to confirm the store has the type of license you want in stock. Retailers charge the same price as the state website.

How Long Your License Lasts

A one-year California fishing license is valid for 12 months from the date you purchase it. If you buy your license on March 15, it expires on March 15 of the following year. The state does not offer multi-year licenses.

Short-term licenses expire at the end of the day on which they expire. A one-day license bought on a Saturday is valid only that Saturday. A 10-day license bought on the first of the month is valid through the tenth day.

What You Need to Buy a License

To buy a California fishing license, you need a valid form of identification showing your date of birth and current address. A driver's license or state ID card works. If you are buying online, you will also need a credit card or debit card to pay.

If you are claiming a discount—such as a senior discount or disability discount—you will need to provide proof of that status. For seniors, your ID showing your age is usually enough. For disabled veterans, you will need your VA disability rating letter. For Native Americans, you will need proof of tribal enrollment.

Rules You Must Follow With Your License

Your fishing license gives you permission to fish, but it does not override California's fishing regulations. You must follow daily catch limits, which vary by species and location. You must use only legal fishing methods for the area where you are fishing. Some areas require special permits in addition to your license—for example, steelhead fishing in certain rivers requires a separate steelhead report card.

You must carry your license with you while fishing and show it to a California Department of Fish and Wildlife officer if asked. Fishing without a license or fishing in violation of the regulations can result in fines of $250 or more and criminal charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish in California with an out-of-state license?

No. You must have a California license to fish in California waters, even if you hold a valid license from another state. Non-residents can buy a short-term license if they are visiting.

Do I need a separate license for saltwater and freshwater fishing?

No. A combination license covers both. You can buy a freshwater-only license if you prefer, but the combination license is the same price as a freshwater-only license for residents ($47), so most people choose the combination.

What happens if my license expires while I'm on a fishing trip?

Your license must be valid on the day you fish. If it expires, you are fishing without a license and can be cited. Buy your renewal license before your current one expires, even if you are in the middle of a trip.

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

California does not issue refunds for unused licenses. If you buy a license and decide not to fish, you cannot get your money back. This is why short-term licenses are useful if you are unsure whether you will fish.

Do I need a license to fish on private property?

Yes. You need a California fishing license to fish anywhere in the state, including private property, unless you own the property and it is not stocked with fish from a hatchery. Check with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife if you are unsure about a specific location.