What Minnesota fishing licenses cost

A Minnesota resident fishing license costs $28 for a full year (calendar year, January through December). A three-day license is $17. A one-day license is $10. Non-residents pay $48 for a full year, $32 for a three-day license, and $17 for a one-day license.

These prices have been in place since 2020 and cover freshwater fishing in all Minnesota waters. You do not need a separate license for different lakes or regions — one license works statewide. If you fish in both Minnesota and another state, you will need a separate license for each state.

Some people do not need a license at all. Children under 16 can fish without one. Residents 65 and older can fish free with proof of age. People with certain disabilities may be exempt — check with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) directly about your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • A Minnesota resident fishing license costs $28 per year, $17 for three days, or $10 for one day.
  • Non-residents pay $48 per year, $32 for three days, or $17 for one day.
  • You can buy a license online through the Minnesota DNR website, by phone, or at bait shops and sporting goods stores.
  • Children under 16 and residents 65 and older do not need a license.
  • Your license is valid statewide and covers all freshwater fishing in Minnesota.

Where to buy a Minnesota fishing license

The easiest way to buy a license is online through the Minnesota DNR website at minnowsystem.com. You can purchase any length of license and print it when ready or have it sent to your phone. The online system is open 24 hours and takes about five minutes.

You can also buy a license by phone by calling the DNR at 1-888-646-6367. A staff member will process your order and mail the license to you, which takes about a week. There is no extra charge for phone orders.

In-person purchases are available at bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores like Cabela's and Bass Pro Shops, and some Walmart locations throughout Minnesota. Call ahead to confirm the store has licenses in stock, since smaller shops may not carry all license types.

What information you need to buy a license

To buy a license online or by phone, have your Minnesota driver's license or ID number ready. If you do not have a Minnesota ID, you can use your Social Security number instead. You will also need a valid email address or phone number where the DNR can send your license.

Non-residents need a valid driver's license or ID from any state or country. The DNR will ask for your name, address, and date of birth. If you are buying a license for someone else, you will need their information, not yours.

How long your license is valid

A full-year license runs from January 1 through December 31 of the same calendar year. If you buy a license on November 15, it expires on December 31 — you do not get a full 12 months. Plan ahead if you fish late in the year.

A three-day license is valid for any three consecutive calendar days you choose. A one-day license is valid for one calendar day only. Both start and end at midnight.

Special licenses and stamps

If you fish for trout, you need a trout stamp in addition to your regular fishing license. The trout stamp costs $13.50 for residents and $18.50 for non-residents. You can buy it at the same time and place as your fishing license.

Minnesota also offers a conservation license for $14.50 (residents) or $24.50 (non-residents) if you want to fish but do not plan to keep any fish. This is less common but costs less than a full license.

Fishing license rules you should know

You must have your license with you and be able to show it to a conservation officer at any time while you are fishing. A printed license, a digital copy on your phone, or a photo of your license all count. Do not fish without your license visible — the penalty is a fine starting at $100.

Your license is personal and non-transferable. You cannot lend it to someone else or fish under someone else's name. Each person fishing needs their own license (except children under 16 and seniors 65 and older).

If you lose your license, you can print a replacement when ready from minnowsystem.com or call the DNR to have one mailed. There is no replacement fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a fishing license for someone else?

Yes. You can buy a license online or by phone using someone else's information. You will need their name, address, date of birth, and driver's license or ID number. The license will be sent to the email or phone number you provide, so make sure you can receive it and pass it along to them.

Do I need a separate license if I fish in Wisconsin or Iowa?

Yes. Each state requires its own license. If you fish in multiple states, you will need to buy a license from each one. Prices and rules vary by state, so check the Wisconsin or Iowa DNR website for their current costs.

What if I fish on a charter boat or guided trip?

You still need your own license. The charter captain or guide does not fish for you — you are fishing yourself. Some charter operations include the license cost in their price, so ask when you book. If they do not, you can buy a one-day or three-day license just before your trip.

Can I get a refund if I do not use my license?

No. Fishing licenses are non-refundable once purchased. If you buy a full-year license and decide not to fish, you cannot get your money back. One-day and three-day licenses are also final sales.

What happens if I fish without a license?

You can be cited by a conservation officer and fined at least $100. Repeat violations carry higher fines and possible loss of fishing privileges. It is cheaper and easier to buy a license upfront than to deal with a citation later.