What Maryland Fishing Licenses Cost

A Maryland fishing license for residents costs $20.50 for a one-year license, or $10.50 for a one-day license. Non-residents pay $30.50 for a one-year license or $11.50 for a one-day license. These prices cover freshwater fishing in most Maryland waters. If you want to fish in tidal waters (the Chesapeake Bay and coastal areas), you need a separate tidal fish stamp, which costs $10.50 for residents and $15.50 for non-residents.

Some people do not need to buy a license at all. Maryland residents age 65 and older, active military personnel, and people with certain disabilities can fish without a license. Children under 16 can fish without a license when supervised by a licensed adult, though they must follow all other fishing rules.

Key Takeaways

  • A one-year Maryland resident fishing license costs $20.50; non-residents pay $30.50.
  • One-day licenses cost $10.50 for residents and $11.50 for non-residents if you only want to fish once.
  • Fishing in tidal waters (Chesapeake Bay and coastal areas) requires an additional $10.50 stamp for residents.
  • Seniors 65 and older, active military, and some people with disabilities do not need to buy a license.
  • You can buy a license online through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website, by phone, or at authorized retailers.

Where to Buy a Maryland Fishing License

You can purchase a license online through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website (dnr.maryland.gov). The online system lets you print your license when ready, which you must carry with you while fishing. You can also buy a license by phone by calling the DNR licensing office, or in person at authorized retailers including sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart locations.

When you buy online or by phone, have your Social Security number and driver's license ready. The system will ask for your name, address, and date of birth. If you are buying a tidal stamp, you will need to specify which type of tidal fishing you plan to do (crabbing, netting, or general fishing), since some stamps are activity-specific.

Different License Types and What They Cover

Maryland offers several license options beyond the standard one-year and one-day licenses. A seven-day license costs $15.50 for residents and $20.50 for non-residents and is useful if you are visiting for a week. A 14-day license costs $18.50 for residents and $25.50 for non-residents.

The standard fishing license covers freshwater fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams throughout Maryland. If you want to fish in the Chesapeake Bay or coastal Atlantic waters, you must add a tidal fish stamp. Some activities, like crabbing with a hand line or net, may have their own separate permits or stamps beyond the basic license.

Who Does Not Need a License

Maryland residents age 65 and older can fish without buying a license, though they must still follow all catch limits and seasonal rules. Active military personnel on leave in Maryland also do not need a license. People with certain disabilities may be exempt; contact the DNR directly to learn whether your situation qualifies.

Children under 16 can fish without a license as long as they are supervised by a licensed adult. The adult must be present and responsible for the child. If a child is fishing alone or without a licensed adult nearby, they need their own license.

When Your License Expires and How to Renew

A one-year Maryland fishing license expires on December 31 of the year you buy it, regardless of when during the year you purchase it. This means a license bought in January and one bought in November both expire on the same date. You can renew your license at any time before it expires, and you can buy the next year's license as early as November.

Renewal works the same way as buying a new license: online through the DNR website, by phone, or at a retail location. If your license expires while you are out fishing, you are not legally fishing and can be cited. Check your license expiration date before each trip.

What Happens If You Fish Without a License

Fishing without a valid license in Maryland is a violation. A first offense typically results in a fine of $100 to $500, depending on the circumstances. Repeat violations carry higher fines and can result in loss of fishing privileges for a period of time. A conservation officer can stop you while you are fishing to check your license, so you must have it with you and be able to show it when ready.

If you lose your license or it gets damaged, you can request a replacement through the DNR website or by calling the licensing office. There is usually a small fee for a replacement, typically $2 to $5.

Special Stamps and Permits Beyond the Basic License

Beyond the tidal fish stamp, Maryland has other optional stamps and permits for specific activities. A trout stamp costs $10.50 for residents and allows you to keep trout in certain designated areas. Some locations require special permits for specific fishing methods or species. Check the DNR website or call before your trip if you plan to fish for a particular species or in a specific location, as rules vary by area and season.

Crabbing in tidal waters requires either a tidal fish stamp or a separate crabbing license, depending on your method. Hand-line crabbing has different rules than net crabbing. The DNR website lists all current stamps and permits with their costs and what they cover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish in Maryland with an out-of-state license?

No. You must have a Maryland license to fish in Maryland waters, even if you have a valid license from another state. However, if you are a non-resident, you can buy a one-day or short-term Maryland license instead of committing to a full year.

Do I need a separate license for each family member?

Yes, each person fishing needs their own license, except for children under 16 who are supervised by a licensed adult. The adult's license covers the supervision requirement, but each child still needs to follow all catch and size limits.

What if I buy a license but never use it?

Maryland does not offer refunds for unused licenses. Once purchased, a license is non-refundable, even if you do not fish. However, you can buy a one-day license if you are unsure whether you will fish, rather than committing to a full year.

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

You can purchase a license for someone else online or by phone if you have their personal information (name, address, date of birth, Social Security number). The person receiving the license will need to print it or pick it up, depending on how it was purchased.

Does my Maryland license work in other states?

No. A Maryland license is only valid in Maryland. If you travel to another state to fish, you will need to buy that state's license. Each state manages its own licensing system and sets its own rules.