Non-resident fishing license costs vary by state, from around $20 to $150 for a year-long license

The price you pay depends entirely on which state you want to fish in. A non-resident is anyone without a permanent address in that state. Most states charge non-residents more than residents — sometimes two or three times as much — because the revenue goes to that state's fish and wildlife department. A one-day non-resident license in some states costs $10 to $20, while an annual license typically runs $30 to $150. A few states charge less; a few charge more.

The actual number for your state is on your state's fish and wildlife website, usually under a heading like "Non-Resident Licenses" or "Out-of-State Licenses". You can also call the department directly — the number is on that same website. Prices change year to year, so checking the official source takes 10 minutes and gives you the exact current price.

Key Takeaways

  • Non-resident fishing license prices are set by each state and range from roughly $20 to $150 for an annual license, depending on the state and type of fishing.
  • Most states offer shorter-term options like three-day or seven-day licenses at lower prices than annual licenses, which can save money if you fish infrequently.
  • You can buy a non-resident license online through your state's fish and wildlife website, by phone, or at sporting goods stores and bait shops in that state.
  • Some states charge different prices for freshwater and saltwater fishing, or for different methods like fly fishing or hunting, so confirm which license type you need.

How states set non-resident license prices

Each state legislature decides what non-residents pay. The money goes to that state's Department of Fish and Wildlife (or equivalent agency) to fund fish stocking, habitat restoration, and enforcement. Non-residents typically pay more because they do not contribute to the state through income tax or hunting and fishing license fees the way residents do.

Some states price licenses to encourage short visits — they offer cheap daily or three-day licenses to attract tourists. Others price them high to discourage heavy use by out-of-state anglers. There is no federal standard, so the price in Montana may be half the price in New York for the same type of fishing.

Types of non-resident licenses and their costs

Most states offer more than one option. An annual license covers the whole calendar year and is the cheapest per day if you fish often. A seven-day or three-day license costs less upfront but more per day of fishing. A one-day license is the most expensive per day but requires no commitment.

Some states also separate freshwater from saltwater, or charge extra for certain methods — fly fishing, for example, or spearfishing. A few states offer a "tourist" license that is cheaper than a full non-resident license but covers only a short window. Check your state's website to see which options exist and which one fits your plans.

Where to buy a non-resident fishing license

The easiest route is your state's fish and wildlife website. You can buy online, print the license when ready, and start fishing the same day. You will need a valid ID and a way to pay — usually a credit or debit card.

If you prefer not to buy online, you can call the fish and wildlife department during business hours and buy over the phone. You can also buy in person at sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some sporting goods chains in that state — they are authorized vendors and stock licenses. Buying in person takes longer because you have to travel to the store, but you get the license on the spot.

What information you need to provide

When you buy, you will need to give your name, date of birth, and address. You will also need a valid ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Some states ask whether you have ever been convicted of a fishing violation or had a license revoked; answer honestly, because false information can void the license.

You do not need to own property in the state or have any connection to it. You just need to be a non-resident — meaning you do not have a permanent home address in that state. If you live in one state and fish in another, you are a non-resident in the fishing state.

How long a non-resident license lasts

An annual license usually runs from January 1 to December 31, regardless of when you buy it. If you buy in November, you get two months of fishing that year and then the full next year. Some states offer licenses that run from the date of purchase instead — those last exactly 365 days from the day you buy.

A short-term license — one day, three days, or seven days — starts the day you buy it and ends at the end of that period. If you buy a three-day license on a Friday, it covers Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Check your state's rules to be sure, because the exact rules vary.

Reciprocal agreements between states

A few neighboring states have reciprocal agreements, meaning a license from one state is valid in the other. These are rare and usually explore only to residents of those states, not to non-residents from elsewhere. If you are planning to fish in two states close together, check whether they have a reciprocal agreement — it could save you the cost of a second license.

The best way to find out is to call both states' fish and wildlife departments. They can tell you in a minute whether your license from one state covers the other, or whether you need separate licenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish without a non-resident license if I am just visiting for a day?

No. Every state requires a license to fish, even for one day. A one-day non-resident license is the shortest option available, and it is usually the cheapest way to fish if you are only there briefly. Some states offer licenses as short as a few hours, but check your state's options first.

Is a non-resident license valid in all states?

No. A license is only valid in the state that issued it. If you fish in multiple states, you need a separate license for each one. A few neighboring states have reciprocal agreements, but these are uncommon and usually explore only to residents of those states.

Do I need a separate license for saltwater and freshwater fishing?

It depends on the state. Some states combine them into one license; others charge separately. Check your state's fish and wildlife website to see whether you need one license or two. The website will list all available license types and their prices.

What happens if I fish without a valid license?

You can be cited and fined. The fine varies by state but is usually $100 to $500 or more, plus the cost of the license you should have bought. A citation can also result in your license being suspended or revoked in that state and sometimes in other states through reciprocal enforcement agreements.

Can I buy a non-resident license if I own property in the state?

Owning property does not make you a resident for fishing license purposes. You must have a permanent home address in the state to be considered a resident. If you own a vacation home but live elsewhere, you buy a non-resident license to fish there.