What Maryland fishing licenses cost

A Maryland fishing license for residents costs $20.50 for a one-year license, or $10.50 for a three-day license. Non-residents pay $30.50 for a one-year license or $15.50 for a five-day license. These prices are current as of 2024, though the state updates them periodically—check the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website before you buy to confirm the current fee.

You can buy a license online through the Maryland DNR website, by phone at 410-260-8DNR (8367), or in person at a licensed vendor such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, or some Walmart locations. Online purchases are when ready; phone and in-person purchases usually take a few minutes.

Maryland also offers a free youth license for residents under 16, and a free senior license for residents 65 and older. A one-day license does not exist in Maryland—your shortest option is the three-day resident license.

Key Takeaways

  • Maryland resident one-year licenses cost $20.50; non-residents pay $30.50 for the same period.
  • Short-term options are a three-day resident license for $10.50 or a five-day non-resident license for $15.50.
  • You can buy online when ready, by phone, or at sporting goods and bait shops across the state.
  • Residents under 16 and over 65 do not need to pay for a license.

Different license types and what they let you do

Maryland separates licenses by what you are fishing for and where. A freshwater license covers fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams. A tidal license covers the Chesapeake Bay and tidal waters. You can buy both together as a combined license for $30.50 (resident, one year), which is cheaper than buying them separately.

Some species require an additional stamp. If you want to fish for trout, you need a trout stamp on top of your freshwater license—this costs $10.50 for residents. Striped bass in tidal waters requires a striped bass stamp, also $10.50. These stamps are sold alongside licenses at the same vendors.

If you fish only occasionally and do not want to commit to a full year, the three-day resident license covers both freshwater and tidal waters, so you do not need to choose between them.

Where to buy and how long it takes

The fastest route is the Maryland DNR website (marylandwildlife.org). You create an account, select your license type, pay by credit or debit card, and receive your license number when ready by email. You can print it or show it on your phone—Maryland accepts digital licenses.

If you prefer to buy in person, call 410-260-8367 to find a licensed vendor near you. Sporting goods chains like Dick's Sporting Goods, local bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart locations sell licenses. The vendor prints your license on the spot, usually within a few minutes.

Phone orders go through the Maryland DNR directly. Call 410-260-8367 during business hours, provide your information, and they mail the license to you—this takes about a week. Online and in-person are faster if you plan to fish soon.

What you need to bring or provide

You will need a valid form of identification—a driver's license, passport, or state ID. If you are buying online, you enter your name, address, and date of birth. The system checks against your ID number if you have a Maryland driver's license.

Non-residents should have their home state ID or passport ready. If you are buying for someone else as a gift, you still need their name and date of birth to complete the purchase.

You do not need to show proof of residency separately—the system verifies it through your ID or address. If you have recently moved to Maryland, use your new address.

License validity and renewal

A one-year resident license runs from the date of purchase for 12 months. A three-day license is valid for three consecutive calendar days starting the day you buy it. A five-day non-resident license works the same way—five consecutive days from purchase.

When your license expires, you buy a new one. There is no grace period—fishing without a valid license is a violation. The Maryland DNR does not send renewal reminders, so mark your calendar or set a phone reminder before your expiration date.

If you lose your license, contact the Maryland DNR at 410-260-8367 and they can issue a replacement. Bring your ID and the original purchase receipt if you have it.

Who does not need a license

Maryland residents under 16 and residents 65 and older do not need a license. You still need a trout stamp or striped bass stamp if you fish for those species, but the base license is free.

Residents fishing on their own property in a private pond do not need a license, but this exemption is narrow—it applies only to ponds on land you own, not to public or shared waters. If you are unsure whether your water counts, call the Maryland DNR.

Active-duty military members stationed in Maryland may be may be able to access for a reduced-cost or free license. Contact the DNR to confirm your status.

Fishing regulations you should know

Having a license does not mean you can fish anywhere or for anything. Maryland has specific seasons, size limits, and catch limits for different species. Largemouth bass, for example, has a minimum size of 12 inches and a daily limit of six fish. Striped bass limits change year to year based on population surveys.

Trout season in freshwater typically runs from early April through mid-October, though some waters stay open year-round. Tidal waters have different rules—some areas allow year-round fishing for certain species.

The Maryland DNR publishes a free fishing guide each year with all current regulations. You can read it from their website or pick up a printed copy at license vendors. Read it before you fish—ignorance of the rules is not a defense if you are checked.

When a game warden might check your license

Maryland Department of Natural Resources officers patrol fishing areas and can ask to see your license at any time. They check that your license is valid, that you have the right stamps for what you are fishing, and that you are following size and catch limits.

If you cannot show a valid license, you face a citation. Penalties start at $50 for a first offense and increase for repeat violations. Fishing without a license is also a misdemeanor if you do it a second time within five years.

Carry your license with you—either the printed copy or a photo on your phone. If you bought online and have the email confirmation, that is not enough; you need the actual license number or document.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. You must have a Maryland license to fish in Maryland waters, even if you hold a valid license from another state. Non-residents can buy a one-year or five-day license from the Maryland DNR.

Do I need a separate license for saltwater fishing?

No. The tidal license covers saltwater fishing in the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters. If you fish both freshwater and saltwater, buy the combined license for the best price.

What if I buy a license and change my mind?

The Maryland DNR does not issue refunds for licenses. Once purchased, a license is valid for its full term and cannot be transferred to another person. If you bought online by mistake, contact the DNR when ready to see if they can cancel it before it is issued.

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

Yes, but you need their name and date of birth to complete the purchase online or by phone. The license will be issued in their name. In-person purchases at a vendor may have different rules—call ahead to ask.

What happens if I fish without a license?

You can receive a citation with a fine starting at $50. A second violation within five years is a misdemeanor. Always carry your license with you when you fish.