What Idaho Fishing Licenses Cost

An Idaho resident fishing license costs $27.75 for a one-year license. A three-day license costs $16.75. A one-day license costs $12.75. Non-residents pay more: $99.75 for a one-year license, $49.75 for a five-day license, and $24.75 for a one-day license. These prices are current as of 2024 and cover freshwater fishing in Idaho's rivers, streams, and lakes.

Idaho also sells combination licenses that bundle fishing with hunting privileges. A resident combination license (hunting and fishing together) costs $47.75 for one year. Non-residents pay $159.75 for the same combination. If you plan to fish multiple times per year, a one-year license is cheaper than buying one-day licenses repeatedly.

You can purchase licenses online through the Idaho Department of Fish and Game website, by phone, or at authorized vendors across the state—including sporting goods stores, bait shops, and some grocery stores. Online purchases are when ready; you receive your license by email and can print it or show it on your phone.

Key Takeaways

  • Idaho resident one-year fishing licenses cost $27.75; non-residents pay $99.75 for the same period.
  • Short-term options exist: one-day licenses cost $12.75 for residents and $24.75 for non-residents.
  • You can buy licenses online through the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, by phone, or at sporting goods stores and bait shops.
  • Combination licenses that include both hunting and fishing cost $47.75 for residents and $159.75 for non-residents.

Where to Buy Your License

The fastest way to get a license is online at idfg.idaho.gov. You enter your information, pay by credit or debit card, and receive your license by email within minutes. You can print it or keep it on your phone—Idaho accepts both.

If you prefer to buy in person, Idaho has hundreds of authorized vendors. These include Cabela's, Sportsman's Warehouse, local bait and tackle shops, and many grocery stores and pharmacies. Call ahead if you are buying from a small shop, as some may have limited hours or stock.

You can also call the Idaho Department of Fish and Game directly at 208-334-3700 to purchase over the phone. They accept credit cards and will mail your license or email it to you.

Who Needs a License and Who Does Not

Anyone age 14 and older must have a valid Idaho fishing license to fish in the state. This applies to residents and non-residents alike. The only exceptions are children under 14 (who can fish without a license if supervised by a licensed adult) and Native Americans with tribal enrollment who fish on tribal lands under tribal regulations.

Disabled veterans and certain disabled Idaho residents may be may be able to access for free or reduced-cost licenses. Contact the Idaho Department of Fish and Game for details about your specific situation, as requirements vary.

License Types Beyond the Standard One-Year

Idaho offers several license lengths to match different fishing plans. The one-day license is useful if you are visiting for a weekend or trying fishing for the first time. The three-day license (residents only) works for a long weekend trip. The five-day license (non-residents only) covers a typical vacation week.

If you fish regularly but want to limit your commitment, the one-year license is the most economical choice. A resident who buys four one-day licenses ($12.75 each) spends $51, while a one-year license costs $27.75—less than half the price.

Idaho also issues conservation licenses, which cost less than standard licenses but come with restrictions on what species you can keep and how many. These are designed for anglers who want to fish but do not plan to keep their catch. A resident conservation license costs $17.75 for one year.

What Your License Covers

Your Idaho fishing license covers freshwater fishing in the state's rivers, streams, reservoirs, and lakes. It does not cover saltwater fishing (which would require a license from the state where you fish) or fishing on private property without the owner's permission.

Your license does not include a stamp for specific fisheries. Some waters in Idaho require an additional steelhead stamp or salmon stamp if you want to keep those species. These stamps cost extra and are sold separately at the same vendors where you buy your license.

Always check the current Idaho fishing regulations before you go. Rules about which species you can keep, how many, and what methods are allowed change by season and location. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game publishes a free regulation guide online and at vendor locations.

Checking Your License Status

If you bought your license online, check your email for the confirmation. Your license number appears in that email and on the printed or digital copy. If you bought in person and received a paper license, the number is printed on the card.

You must carry your license with you while fishing. Idaho law requires you to show it to a fish and game officer on request. A photo of your license on your phone counts, but having the physical card or a printed copy is safer in case your phone dies or loses signal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish in Idaho with a license from another state?

No. You must have an Idaho fishing license to fish in Idaho waters, even if you hold a valid license from your home state. Non-residents can purchase a short-term license if they are visiting.

Do I need a separate license to fish for trout versus other fish?

No. A single Idaho fishing license covers all freshwater species. However, if you want to keep steelhead or salmon, you must buy an additional stamp for that species.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Idaho law. Penalties include fines and possible confiscation of equipment. The fine amount depends on the circumstances and whether it is a first or repeat offense.

Can I get a refund if I buy a license and do not use it?

Idaho does not issue refunds for unused licenses. However, if you purchase a license online by mistake, contact the Idaho Department of Fish and Game when ready—they may be able to help if the error is caught quickly.

Do I need a license to fish on private property?

You still need an Idaho fishing license to fish on private property, unless the owner has posted the land as private and you have written permission. The license requirement applies statewide regardless of land ownership.