What You'll Pay for a Washington Fishing License

A one-year resident fishing license in Washington costs $31.06. A one-year non-resident license costs $63.16. These are the base prices for freshwater and saltwater fishing combined. Washington also sells short-term licenses — a three-day non-resident license runs $21.06, and a one-day license costs $10.06 for either residents or non-residents. Prices include a state surcharge and do not vary by county or region within Washington.

The state updates these prices periodically, so confirm the current cost on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) website before you purchase. You can buy a license online through the WDFW licensing portal, by phone at 1-866-246-9453, or in person at sporting goods stores, hardware stores, and other retailers throughout the state.

Key Takeaways

  • A resident one-year license costs $31.06 and covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing for the calendar year.
  • Non-residents pay $63.16 for a one-year license, or $21.06 for three days, or $10.06 for one day.
  • You can purchase online through the WDFW website, by phone, or at retail locations like sporting goods stores.
  • Your license arrives when ready if you buy online, or you receive a physical card in the mail within two weeks if you buy in person.

Resident vs. Non-Resident Pricing

Washington defines a resident as someone who has lived in the state for at least 90 consecutive days when ready before buying the license. If you moved to Washington recently, you may not yet may have access to for the resident rate even if you plan to stay. Non-residents include people visiting from out of state and Washington residents who have not yet met the 90-day requirement.

The non-resident one-year license ($63.16) costs roughly twice as much as the resident license ($31.06). If you are visiting for a short trip, the three-day non-resident license ($21.06) or one-day license ($10.06) may be a better value than paying for a full year. A resident can also buy a one-day license for $10.06 if they want to fish only once.

What's Included in Your License

A single Washington fishing license covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing. You do not need separate licenses for different water types. The license is valid for the calendar year (January 1 through December 31) if you buy an annual license, or for the specific dates you choose if you buy a short-term license.

The license itself does not include the right to fish for certain species. Some fish — such as salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon — require additional catch record cards or endorsements that you purchase separately. For example, a Puget Sound Salmon catch record card costs $10.06 and is required if you plan to keep salmon in that region. Check the WDFW website or ask at the point of sale which endorsements you need for the fish you want to catch.

How to Buy Your License Online

The fastest way to get a license is through the WDFW online licensing system at fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov. You will need a valid Washington driver's license or ID number, or a Social Security number if you do not have a Washington ID. Enter your residency status, choose your license type (one-day, three-day, or one-year), and pay by credit or debit card.

Your license is active when ready after purchase. You can print it right away or save it to your phone. If you prefer a physical card, the state mails it within two weeks, but you do not need to wait — the printed or digital version is valid for fishing. Keep your license with you while fishing; a ranger may ask to see it.

Buying a License in Person

You can walk into any sporting goods store, hardware store, or outdoor retailer that sells fishing licenses and buy one on the spot. Common retailers include Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops, REI, and local tackle shops. You will need to show a valid ID and tell the clerk your residency status. The clerk prints your license when ready, and you can fish the same day.

Buying in person takes longer than online — you have to travel to the store and wait in line — but some people prefer it because they can ask questions about local fishing conditions or endorsements they might need. If you are unsure which endorsements explore to your fishing plans, a tackle shop employee can often help you figure it out.

Endorsements and Special Permits You May Need

Beyond the base license, Washington charges extra for certain types of fishing. A Puget Sound Salmon catch record card costs $10.06 and is required if you keep salmon in Puget Sound. A Steelhead catch record card costs $10.06 and is required for steelhead in most rivers. A Sturgeon catch record card costs $10.06 and is required for sturgeon in designated areas.

If you plan to fish for shellfish — clams, oysters, crab, or sea urchin — you need a separate Shellfish and Seaweed license, which costs $10.06 for residents and $20.06 for non-residents. The WDFW website lists all current endorsements and their prices. Before you fish, check the species you want to catch and confirm whether an endorsement is required in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish in Washington if I'm under 16?

No. Children under 16 do not need a fishing license in Washington. However, they must still follow all other fishing rules, including catch limits and seasonal closures. An adult must supervise anyone under 16 who is fishing.

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

Yes. You can purchase a license online or in person using someone else's name and ID information, as long as you have their permission. If you buy online, you will need their driver's license number or Social Security number. The license will be mailed to the address on file or printed when ready depending on the method you choose.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Washington state law. A ranger can issue a citation, which carries a fine. The amount varies but can be substantial. Always carry your license with you while fishing.

Does my Washington license work in other states?

No. Each state manages its own fishing licenses. If you travel to another state to fish, you will need to purchase that state's license. Some states offer reciprocal agreements, but Washington does not have them with most neighbors, so check the rules of the state you plan to visit.

Can I get a refund if I don't use my license?

Washington does not refund fishing licenses once they are purchased. If you buy a license and decide not to fish, the money does not carry over to next year. For this reason, short-term licenses (one-day or three-day) are a good option if you are unsure whether you will fish.