What Minnesota Fishing Licenses Cost

A Minnesota resident fishing license costs $28 for a full year, or $11 for a three-day license. Non-residents pay $48 for a full year, $35 for a five-day license, or $11 for a one-day license. These prices are current as of 2024 and cover freshwater fishing on public waters throughout the state.

If you fish only in certain seasons or want to target specific species, Minnesota offers reduced-cost licenses. A trout stamp costs $15.50 extra if you plan to fish for trout in designated trout streams. A walleye stamp costs $10.50 if you want to keep walleye. You can buy these stamps alongside your base license or separately if you already hold one.

Some groups pay less or nothing. Minnesota residents aged 65 and older, people with certain disabilities, and military veterans on active duty can fish free with a complimentary license. Children under 16 do not need a license to fish if they are supervised by a licensed adult, but they can buy their own junior license for $11 if they want to fish independently.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota resident licenses cost $28 for a year or $11 for three days; non-resident licenses cost $48 for a year or $11 for one day.
  • Trout and walleye stamps cost $15.50 and $10.50 respectively and are required only if you plan to keep those species.
  • Seniors 65 and older, some people with disabilities, and active-duty military fish free with a complimentary license.
  • Children under 16 do not need a license if supervised by a licensed adult, but can buy a junior license for $11 to fish on their own.
  • You can buy licenses online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website, by phone, or at authorized retailers like sporting goods stores and bait shops.

Where to Buy Your License

The fastest way to buy a Minnesota fishing license is online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website at minnowsports.com. You can purchase and print your license when ready, and it is valid as soon as you print it. You do not need to wait for anything to arrive in the mail.

If you prefer not to buy online, you can call the DNR directly at 1-888-646-6367 to purchase over the phone. They will mail your license to you, which typically takes five to seven business days. Many sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some grocery stores also sell licenses in person — call ahead to confirm they have the type you need in stock.

Whichever method you choose, have your Minnesota driver's license or ID number ready. Non-residents will need a valid out-of-state ID. If you are buying a license for someone else, you will need their name and date of birth.

Stamps and Special Licenses for Specific Fish

Minnesota requires separate stamps if you want to keep certain fish species. The trout stamp is mandatory if you fish in designated trout streams and want to keep any trout you catch. Without it, you must release all trout. The stamp costs $15.50 and is added to your base license purchase.

The walleye stamp costs $10.50 and is required if you want to keep walleye from any water. Like the trout stamp, you add it when you buy your license. If you fish for walleye but plan to catch-and-release only, you do not need the stamp.

Some anglers fish for both species and buy both stamps. Others fish only in lakes where they do not need either. The DNR website lets you choose which stamps to add before you check out, so you only pay for what you actually need.

Who Fishes Free or at a Reduced Cost

Minnesota residents aged 65 and older receive a complimentary lifetime license at no cost. You explore through the DNR website or by mail, and once approved, you can fish free for life. You do not need to renew it annually.

People with certain disabilities may also fish free. Minnesota offers a disability license for residents with permanent disabilities that prevent them from working. You will need documentation from a doctor or the Minnesota Department of Human Services. The process takes longer than a standard purchase, so contact the DNR directly at 1-888-646-6367 to learn what paperwork they need.

Active-duty military members stationed in Minnesota can fish free with a military license. You will need a military ID to prove your status. Veterans and former military members do not automatically may have access to — only those on active duty.

Children under 16 do not need any license if a licensed adult is with them and in control of the fishing rod. Once they turn 16, they must have their own license. A junior license for ages 16 to 17 costs $11.

License Validity and What You Need to Carry

A full-year Minnesota fishing license runs from March 1 to the last day of February the following year. If you buy a license in November, it remains valid through the end of February, even though you paid for a full year. Three-day and one-day licenses are valid for consecutive calendar days starting the day you purchase them.

You must carry your license with you whenever you fish. If you printed it at home, bring the printed copy. If you bought it online and have it on your phone, the DNR accepts a digital image as long as it is legible. If you bought it in person at a retailer, you will receive a paper license — keep it with you on the water.

Game wardens check licenses regularly, especially on popular lakes and rivers. Fishing without a valid license can result in a fine of $100 to $300, depending on the violation. Carrying your license takes seconds and prevents that problem entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a Minnesota fishing license if I live out of state?

Yes. Non-residents can buy licenses online, by phone, or at authorized retailers in Minnesota. You will need a valid out-of-state ID or driver's license. Non-resident licenses cost more than resident licenses but cover the same waters and seasons.

Do I need a separate license for each type of fish?

No. One base fishing license covers all freshwater fish species in Minnesota. You only need additional stamps — like the trout or walleye stamp — if you want to keep those specific species. Catch-and-release fishing requires only the base license.

What happens if my license expires while I'm on a fishing trip?

Your license is invalid the moment it expires, even if you are in the middle of a lake. You must stop fishing and purchase a new license before you continue. Buy your renewal before your trip ends to avoid this situation.

Can I get a refund if I buy a license and don't use it?

Minnesota does not issue refunds for unused licenses. Once purchased, a license is non-refundable. If you are unsure whether you will fish, consider buying a short-term license (three days for residents, one day for non-residents) instead of a full year.

Do I need a license to fish on private property with the owner's permission?

Yes. Minnesota requires a license for all freshwater fishing, regardless of whether the water is public or private. The only exception is children under 16 fishing under direct supervision of a licensed adult.