What Michigan fishing licenses cost
A Michigan resident fishing license costs $31.95 for a year. A three-day license costs $16.95. A 24-hour license costs $11.95. Non-residents pay $63.95 for a year, $36.95 for three days, or $16.95 for 24 hours. These prices have held since 2023 and cover freshwater fishing in Michigan's lakes, rivers, and streams.
You do not need a separate license to fish in the Great Lakes — the same license covers them. If you fish for salmon, trout, or steelhead in Lake Michigan or Lake Huron, you still use your standard license; no add-on is required.
Prices are the same whether you buy online, by phone, or in person. The state does not charge a processing fee on top of the license price.
Key Takeaways
- Michigan resident annual licenses cost $31.95; non-residents pay $63.95 for the same period.
- Short-term licenses (24-hour and three-day) are available at lower prices for both residents and non-residents.
- You can buy a license online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website, by phone, or at authorized retailers like sporting goods stores and bait shops.
- Your license is valid when ready when purchased online or by phone, and you can fish the same day.
Where to buy a Michigan fishing license
The fastest route is the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website at michigan.gov/dnr. You create an account, enter your information, and pay by credit or debit card. Your license prints to your phone or computer as a PDF, and you can fish when ready — you do not have to wait for anything in the mail.
You can also call the DNR licensing office at 1-866-GO-FISH1 (1-866-463-4741) and buy over the phone with a credit card. They will email your license to you or read the license number aloud so you can write it down.
In-person purchases happen at bait and tackle shops, sporting goods retailers like Cabela's and Dick's Sporting Goods, and some Walmart and Meijer locations. Call ahead to confirm the store has licenses in stock, since smaller shops sometimes run out during peak season.
What information you need to buy a license
You will need your Michigan driver's license number or state ID number. If you do not have one, you can use your Social Security number instead. You also need your date of birth and a valid mailing address in Michigan (for residents) or anywhere (for non-residents).
If you are buying online, you will need a credit or debit card. In-person purchases accept cash, card, or check depending on the retailer.
License validity and what it covers
An annual license runs from March 1 to the last day of February the following year, regardless of when you buy it. A three-day license is valid for three consecutive calendar days starting the day you buy it. A 24-hour license is valid for 24 hours from the time of purchase.
Your license covers freshwater fishing — bass, pike, panfish, walleye, and other inland species. It also covers Great Lakes fishing. You do not need a separate stamp or tag for any species; one license covers everything.
You must carry your license with you while fishing. If you bought online, you can show the PDF on your phone or print it. If you bought in person, you receive a physical card or receipt.
Who needs a license and who does not
Anyone age 17 and older must have a license to fish in Michigan. Children under 17 do not need a license and can fish with a licensed adult.
You also do not need a license if you fish on private property with written permission from the owner, though the owner themselves must be licensed. Fishing on public land or water always requires a license.
Resident versus non-resident rates
You are a Michigan resident if you have lived in the state for at least 30 days and have a Michigan address on your driver's license or state ID. If you moved to Michigan recently, you may not yet meet the residency requirement — check your ID to be sure.
Non-residents pay roughly double the resident rate for an annual license. If you fish in Michigan only once or twice a year, a three-day or 24-hour license is usually cheaper than an annual non-resident license, even if you buy multiple short-term licenses across the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish the same day I buy my license online?
Yes. Your license is active the moment you complete the purchase and receive the confirmation. You can print it or show it on your phone when ready and fish that day. You do not have to wait for anything to arrive by mail.
Do I need a separate license for each type of fish?
No. One Michigan fishing license covers all freshwater species and the Great Lakes. You do not buy separate licenses for bass, walleye, pike, or any other fish. Salmon, trout, and steelhead in the Great Lakes are included in the same license.
What happens if I lose my license?
If you bought online, log back into your account on the Michigan DNR website and read your license again — it is the same license number. If you bought in person and lost the physical card, call the DNR at 1-866-GO-FISH1 and provide your name and date of birth; they can look up your license and email you a replacement.
Can I buy a license for someone else?
Yes, online or by phone. You will need their name, date of birth, and Michigan ID number (or Social Security number). You pay with your card, and the license is sent to their email address or mailed to their address.
Is there a discount for seniors or disabled people?
Michigan offers a reduced-price license for residents age 65 and older, and for residents with a disability. The discounted annual license costs $11.95. You must show proof of age or disability status when you buy in person, or upload documentation when you buy online.