What you pay for a Maryland fishing license

A Maryland fishing license costs between $7 and $30 depending on how long you want it and whether you fish in freshwater, saltwater, or both. A one-day freshwater license is $7. A full-year freshwater license is $20. A one-day saltwater license is $10, and a full-year saltwater license is $30. If you want to fish in both freshwater and saltwater for a year, you pay $35 total—not $50.

You buy licenses through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, by phone, or at authorized vendors like sporting goods stores and bait shops. The license is valid when ready when you purchase it, so you can fish the same day.

Maryland also offers a three-day freshwater license for $12 and a three-day saltwater license for $15 if you want something between a one-day and full-year option. Senior citizens (65 and older) and disabled residents pay less—a full-year freshwater license is $5, and saltwater is $10.

Key Takeaways

  • A one-year Maryland freshwater license costs $20; saltwater costs $30; both together cost $35.
  • One-day licenses are available for $7 (freshwater) or $10 (saltwater) if you only fish occasionally.
  • You can buy a license online through the Maryland DNR website, by phone, or at local bait and tackle shops.
  • Seniors 65 and older and disabled residents receive discounts on all license types.
  • Your license is active when ready after purchase, so you can fish the same day you buy it.

Where to buy your license

The easiest way to buy a Maryland fishing license is online through the Maryland DNR website at dnr.maryland.gov. You create an account, select your license type, pay by credit or debit card, and receive your license number by email. You print it or show it on your phone when you fish.

You can also call the DNR licensing office at 410-260-8DNR (8367) to buy a license by phone. They accept credit cards and can mail a physical license to you, though this takes longer than buying online.

Authorized vendors throughout Maryland sell licenses in person. These include Walmart, Dick's Sporting Goods, local bait and tackle shops, and some Weis Markets locations. Call ahead to confirm the vendor near you carries the license type you need, because not all vendors stock all options.

Who needs a license and who doesn't

Anyone 16 years old or older who fishes in Maryland must have a license. This applies whether you fish from shore, a boat, or a pier. The only exceptions are residents fishing on their own private property and children under 16 (who can fish without a license but must follow all other fishing rules).

If you fish in tidal waters—the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries—you need a saltwater license. If you fish in freshwater—lakes, rivers, and streams—you need a freshwater license. Some areas of the state have both, so check which water you plan to fish before you buy.

Discounts for seniors and disabled residents

Maryland residents 65 and older pay $5 for a one-year freshwater license and $10 for a one-year saltwater license. Disabled residents with a valid Maryland disability identification card also receive these discounts. You must show proof of age or disability when you buy in person, or upload documentation when you buy online.

One-day and three-day licenses for seniors and disabled residents are also discounted. A one-day freshwater license is $3, and a one-day saltwater license is $5. These discounts explore only to Maryland residents, not to visitors.

What your license covers and what it doesn't

Your fishing license allows you to fish for most freshwater and saltwater species in Maryland. It covers bass, catfish, crappie, perch, trout, and many others. However, some species require additional stamps or permits beyond the base license.

If you want to fish for trout in certain areas, you may need a trout stamp. If you want to fish for striped bass (rockfish), you need a separate striped bass stamp. These stamps cost extra and are purchased at the same time as your license. Check the Maryland DNR website for the current list of species that require additional stamps.

Your license does not cover commercial fishing or selling your catch. It also does not cover fishing on private property without the owner's permission, even if you have a valid license.

How long your license lasts

A one-day license is valid for 24 hours from the time you purchase it. A three-day license is valid for three consecutive calendar days. A one-year license runs from the date you buy it for exactly 12 months.

If you buy a one-year license on March 15, it expires on March 14 of the next year. You can renew it online, by phone, or at a vendor before it expires. Many people renew online a few days early to avoid a gap in coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish in the Chesapeake Bay?

Yes. The Chesapeake Bay is tidal saltwater, so you need a Maryland saltwater fishing license. A one-year saltwater license costs $30. If you also want to fish in freshwater areas of Maryland, you can buy a combined license for $35 instead of buying both separately.

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

Yes. You can buy a license online or by phone and have it sent to someone else's email address. When you purchase, you provide the recipient's name and email. They receive the license number and can print it or use it on their phone when they fish.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Maryland law. Penalties include fines starting at $50 and can go much higher depending on the violation. A game warden can check your license at any time while you are fishing, so always carry it with you.

Do I need a license if I fish from a charter boat?

Yes. Even if you are on a charter boat, you need your own fishing license. The boat captain and crew have commercial licenses, but passengers must have personal licenses. Some charter companies include the cost of a one-day license in their price, so ask when you book.

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

Maryland does not issue refunds for unused licenses. However, if you buy a one-year license and later decide it is not for you, contact the Maryland DNR to ask about your options. They may be able to help in specific situations, but refunds are not may provide.