What California Fishing Licenses Cost

A one-year resident fishing license in California costs $52.09 as of 2024. If you want to fish for steelhead, you need to add a steelhead report card for $16.83. A two-day license costs $17.02, and a one-day license costs $16.60. Non-residents pay $141.35 for a one-year license, $34.16 for a two-day license, and $24.36 for a one-day license.

Prices change each year on January 1st. The state sets these fees to fund fish and wildlife programs. You can buy a license online through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website, by phone at 1-888-334-2258, or in person at sporting goods stores, bait shops, and some grocery stores that sell fishing supplies.

Seniors (ages 65 and older) and people with disabilities may pay reduced rates. Children under 16 do not need a license to fish in California, though they must follow all other fishing rules.

Key Takeaways

  • A one-year resident fishing license costs $52.09, and you can buy it online, by phone, or at retail locations throughout the state.
  • Short-term options include a two-day license for $17.02 or a one-day license for $16.60 if you do not want to commit to a full year.
  • If you plan to fish for steelhead, you must purchase a separate steelhead report card for $16.83 in addition to your base license.
  • Non-residents pay significantly more—$141.35 for a year—but can buy shorter licenses at lower rates.
  • Children under 16 do not need a license, and seniors and people with disabilities may receive discounted rates.

Where to Buy Your License Online

The fastest way to get a license is through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's online store at wildlife.ca.gov. You can purchase and print your license when ready, or have it mailed to you. The online system accepts credit and debit cards and takes about 10 minutes to complete.

When you buy online, you will need your Social Security number or California ID number, your date of birth, and your address. If you are buying a steelhead report card, you will also need to provide the county where you plan to fish. Your printed license is valid the moment you receive it—you do not have to wait for anything in the mail.

If you prefer not to print at home, you can buy in person at any authorized retailer. These include Bass Pro Shops, Sportsman's Warehouse, Walmart, and local bait and tackle shops. Call ahead to confirm they have the license type you need in stock.

Buying by Phone or Mail

You can order a license by calling 1-888-334-2258 during business hours. A staff member will take your information and mail the license to you. This method takes longer—usually 5 to 10 business days—so plan ahead if you have a fishing trip scheduled.

Mailed licenses arrive with a temporary receipt that you can use while waiting for the physical license. Keep the receipt with you while fishing. Once the permanent license arrives, carry that instead.

Special Licenses and Add-Ons

Beyond the base fishing license, California offers several add-on stamps and report cards for specific types of fishing. A steelhead report card is required if you want to keep steelhead and costs $16.83. A salmon report card costs $16.83 and is required for salmon fishing in ocean and bay areas.

If you plan to fish in a specific county or region, check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for any county-specific restrictions or additional requirements. Some areas have separate rules for different species, and you may need multiple report cards if you fish for more than one species.

Lifetime licenses are also available. A resident lifetime license costs $1,435.09 for adults, which breaks even after about 27 years of annual licenses. Lifetime licenses for seniors and people with disabilities cost less—ask at a retailer or call the phone line for current pricing.

What Your License Covers

A California fishing license allows you to fish in freshwater (lakes, rivers, and streams) and saltwater (ocean and bays) with a rod and reel or by hand. The license covers most common fish species, including bass, trout, catfish, and perch. It does not cover spearfishing, netting, or trapping, which require separate permits.

Your license is valid for one year from the date of purchase, not from January 1st. If you buy a license on June 15th, it expires on June 14th of the following year. Always check the expiration date on your license before you go fishing.

You must carry your license with you while fishing and show it to any wildlife officer who asks. A digital copy on your phone is acceptable if you can display it clearly. Fishing without a valid license can result in fines starting at $250.

Discounts for Seniors and People with Disabilities

California residents age 65 and older can purchase a one-year license for $35.09, which is $17 less than the standard rate. People with disabilities who hold a valid Disabled Person Placard or Disabled Veteran ID can also buy licenses at the reduced rate of $35.09.

To receive the discount, you must show proof of age or disability status when buying in person. When buying online, you will be asked to verify your may be able to access. Discounted licenses are available for all license types—one-year, two-day, and one-day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish in California if I am under 16?

No. Children under 16 do not need a fishing license in California. However, they must still follow all fishing regulations, including size and catch limits for each species. An adult can supervise multiple children without each child needing a license.

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

Yes. You can purchase a license online or in person and give it to someone else. If you buy online, you will need to provide the recipient's name, date of birth, and address. The license will be mailed to that address or printed for you to give to them.

What happens if I fish without a valid license?

Fishing without a license is a violation. Penalties start at $250 and can go higher depending on the circumstances. A wildlife officer can issue a citation on the spot. It is cheaper and easier to buy a license before you fish.

Can I return or refund a fishing license I bought?

Fishing licenses cannot be refunded or transferred once purchased. If you buy a license and change your plans, you lose the money. This is why short-term licenses (one-day or two-day) are useful if you are unsure about your fishing schedule.

Do I need a separate license to fish in the ocean versus freshwater?

No. A single California fishing license covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing. However, some saltwater species like salmon require an additional report card, which you purchase separately.