What You Pay for a Minnesota Fishing License

A resident fishing license in Minnesota costs $28.50 for a full year. If you want to fish for just three days, the cost is $14.50. A one-day license runs $9.50. Non-residents pay more: $48.50 for a full year, $32.50 for five consecutive days, or $14.50 for one day.

These prices cover freshwater fishing on lakes and streams. If you want to fish in saltwater or on the Mississippi River, you may need additional stamps or endorsements, which cost extra. Trout stamp endorsements, for example, add $15.50 to your license cost if you plan to fish trout-only waters.

Prices are set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and do not change within a year, though they can be adjusted annually. A full-year license runs from the date you purchase it through the same date the following year, not on a calendar-year basis.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota resident licenses cost $28.50 per year, $14.50 for three days, or $9.50 for one day.
  • Non-residents pay $48.50 per year, $32.50 for five days, or $14.50 for one day.
  • You can buy a license online through the Minnesota DNR website, by phone, or at authorized retailers like bait shops and sporting goods stores.
  • Some people do not need a license, including children under 16 and adults fishing with a licensed guide on certain waters.
  • A trout stamp costs an additional $15.50 if you plan to fish designated trout-only streams.

Where to Buy Your License in Minnesota

The fastest way to buy a license is online through the Minnesota DNR website at minnownet.state.mn.us. You can purchase and print your license when ready, or have it sent to your email. The online system accepts credit and debit cards.

You can also call the DNR licensing office at 888-646-6367 during business hours. They will issue your license over the phone and mail it to you, or you can pick it up at a DNR office.

Authorized retailers throughout Minnesota sell licenses in person. These include bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores like Cabela's and Bass Pro Shops, and some Walmart and Target locations. Call ahead to confirm the retailer near you carries licenses, since not all locations stock them.

Who Does Not Need a License

Children under 16 do not need a fishing license in Minnesota, though they must follow all other fishing rules and regulations. Adults 65 and older can fish without a license on their birthday and for 14 consecutive days after, but must have proof of age.

You do not need a license if you are fishing on private land with written permission from the owner and you are not using a boat. You also do not need one if you are fishing with a licensed guide on certain waters, though the guide's license covers only the guide and their clients on that specific trip.

Disabled veterans and people with certain disabilities may be exempt from licensing fees. Contact the DNR directly to learn whether you may have access to for an exemption.

Trout Stamps and Special Endorsements

If you plan to fish designated trout-only streams in Minnesota, you must add a trout stamp to your license. The stamp costs $15.50 and covers the same period as your base license. Without it, you cannot legally keep trout from those waters, even if you have a valid fishing license.

The DNR publishes a list of trout-only streams on its website. These are usually smaller, colder streams managed specifically for trout. Many popular streams near the Twin Cities and in northeastern Minnesota are trout-only waters.

You buy the trout stamp at the same time and place you buy your fishing license — online, by phone, or at a retailer. The system will ask whether you want to add it when you purchase.

How Long Your License Lasts

A full-year resident license is valid for 12 months from the date you purchase it, not from January 1. If you buy a license on March 15, it expires on March 15 of the following year. This means you can buy a license at any time of year and fish for a full year.

Three-day and one-day licenses are calendar-based. A three-day license is good for three consecutive calendar days starting the day you purchase it. A one-day license is valid only on the day you buy it.

You should carry your license with you while fishing. The DNR recommends keeping a photo or printed copy on your phone or in your wallet. If you lose your license, you can request a duplicate from the DNR for a small fee.

License Discounts and Special Rates

Minnesota does not offer reduced-price licenses for most groups, but some discounts exist. Military members on active duty can fish without a license. Some nonprofit organizations and schools can request group rates for educational fishing trips — contact the DNR directly to ask.

If you buy a license online and print it when ready, you avoid shipping fees and can start fishing the same day. This is usually the cheapest and fastest option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish in Minnesota without a license if I am visiting from another state?

No. If you are not a Minnesota resident, you must buy a non-resident license. Non-residents pay $48.50 for a full year or $14.50 for one day. Your home state's license does not work in Minnesota.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Minnesota law. The DNR can issue a citation, which carries a fine. The amount depends on whether it is your first offense and the specific violation. It is cheaper and easier to buy a license than to pay a fine.

Do I need a separate license to fish different types of water?

No. One resident or non-resident license covers all freshwater fishing in Minnesota. If you want to fish trout-only streams, you add a trout stamp to the same license. You do not buy multiple licenses for different lakes or rivers.

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

Yes. You can purchase a license online or at a retailer and give it to someone else. The person fishing must have the license with them and must follow all other regulations. If you buy online, you can use the recipient's name and email address.

What if I lose my fishing license while I am out on the water?

Contact the DNR to request a duplicate. You can do this online or by phone. In the meantime, you should not fish without a valid license. The DNR can issue a replacement quickly, usually within a few business days.