Utah fishing license prices by license type

A Utah fishing license costs between $10 and $99 depending on what you want to fish and how long you want the license to last. A one-day license runs $10. A three-day license costs $20. An annual resident license is $33, and an annual non-resident license is $99. If you are under 12 or over 69, you do not need a license at all.

Utah also sells combination licenses that bundle fishing with hunting or other activities. A combination license that covers both fishing and hunting costs $75 for residents and $250 for non-residents and lasts one year. These are sold through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, which manages all hunting and fishing licenses in the state.

Prices do not vary by county or region within Utah. The cost is the same whether you fish in the Provo River, Bear Lake, or the Green River. You pay the same amount regardless of what species you plan to catch.

Key Takeaways

  • A one-day Utah fishing license costs $10, a three-day license costs $20, and an annual resident license costs $33.
  • Non-residents pay $99 for an annual license, which is three times the resident rate.
  • Children under 12 and adults over 69 do not need a license to fish in Utah.
  • You can buy licenses online through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website, by phone, or at sporting goods retailers and tackle shops.

Where to buy a Utah fishing license

You can buy a Utah fishing license online at the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website (wildlife.utah.gov). The online system lets you print your license when ready or have it mailed to you. You can also buy a license by phone by calling the Division at 801-538-4700.

Sporting goods stores and fishing tackle shops throughout Utah sell licenses over the counter. Stores like Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops, and local fly-fishing shops all carry them. Some Walmart locations and outdoor retailers also sell Utah licenses. When you buy in person, you get your license on the spot.

If you buy online, you need to print your license and carry it with you while fishing. A printed copy or a digital copy on your phone counts as proof. If you buy by phone or in person, ask whether you want a printed copy mailed or if you can pick it up when ready.

Resident versus non-resident rates

Utah charges residents and non-residents different prices. A resident pays $33 for an annual license. A non-resident pays $99 for the same one-year license. The three-day non-resident license costs $35, compared to $20 for residents.

Utah defines a resident as someone who has lived in the state for at least six months and holds a Utah driver's license or state ID. If you moved to Utah recently but do not yet have a state ID, you may still be able to buy a resident license if you can show proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease. Contact the Division of Wildlife Resources to confirm your status before buying.

Non-residents include anyone who does not meet the residency requirement. This covers tourists, people visiting family, and people who own property in Utah but live elsewhere. The non-resident rate applies no matter how long you plan to stay.

What your license covers and does not cover

A Utah fishing license lets you fish in public waters throughout the state using legal methods. It covers freshwater fishing in rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs. You can fish for trout, bass, walleye, perch, and other species that live in Utah waters.

Your license does not cover private property. If you want to fish on someone else's land, you need their written permission, and the license alone does not grant you access. Some private ranches and clubs require separate membership or day-use fees on top of your state license.

The license also does not cover saltwater fishing. Utah has no ocean coastline, so this does not affect most anglers. However, if you plan to fish in another state, you need that state's license as well — your Utah license is only valid in Utah.

Special licenses and stamps

Utah offers a few additional licenses and stamps beyond the standard fishing license. A conservation permit costs $5 and is required if you want to keep certain fish species. Some waters require a special use permit or stamp, which costs between $5 and $15 depending on the water.

The Strawberry Reservoir stamp, for example, costs $10 and is required to fish there in addition to your regular license. Some other popular reservoirs and streams have similar requirements. Check the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website or call ahead to learn about the water you plan to fish has a special permit requirement.

Youth licenses for ages 12 to 17 cost $15 for an annual resident license and $50 for an annual non-resident license. These are cheaper than adult licenses but follow the same rules and cover the same waters.

How long your license lasts

A one-day license is valid for one calendar day only. A three-day license is valid for three consecutive calendar days. An annual license runs from January 1 through December 31 of that year, regardless of when you buy it.

If you buy an annual license on December 15, it expires on December 31 of that same year, not one year later. This means buying late in the year gives you less fishing time for the same price. If you plan to fish regularly, buying early in the year makes more sense financially.

Licenses do not roll over or carry forward. Once your license expires, you must buy a new one to fish legally. There is no grace period or extension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to fish in Utah if I am visiting for one day?

Yes, unless you are under 12 or over 69. A one-day license costs $10 and is the cheapest option for a short visit. You can buy it online and print it when ready, or buy it at a tackle shop or sporting goods store on the day you plan to fish.

Can I use my fishing license from another state in Utah?

No. Your home state's license is not valid in Utah. You must buy a Utah license to fish legally in Utah waters. Non-residents can buy a one-day, three-day, or annual license depending on how long they plan to stay.

What happens if I fish without a license in Utah?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Utah law. Penalties include fines and possible confiscation of fishing equipment. The exact penalty depends on the circumstances and whether it is a first offense. It is cheaper and simpler to buy a license before you fish.

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

Yes. You can buy a license online or in person for another person. When you buy online, you provide their name and information, and they can print the license or have it mailed. Some retailers also sell gift certificates for licenses.

Do I need a separate license to fish for different species?

No. One fishing license covers all freshwater fish species in Utah. You do not need separate licenses for trout, bass, walleye, or any other species. Some waters may have special stamps or permits, but the base fishing license is the same for all species.