What New York fishing licenses cost

A New York resident fishing license costs $25 for a year. A three-day license costs $15. A one-day license costs $10. Non-residents pay $50 for a year, $25 for seven days, and $15 for one day.

These prices cover freshwater fishing in New York's lakes, rivers, and streams. Saltwater fishing requires a separate license. A New York resident saltwater license costs $25.50 for a year or $10.50 for seven days. Non-residents pay $50.50 for a year or $25.50 for seven days.

You do not need a license if you fish from a licensed charter boat, from a public pier in New York City, or if you are under 16 years old. Seniors 70 and older fish free with proof of age.

Key Takeaways

  • A New York resident freshwater license costs $25 per year, $15 for three days, or $10 for one day.
  • Non-residents pay $50 per year for freshwater, or $15 for a single day.
  • Saltwater licenses are separate and cost $25.50 per year for residents or $10.50 for seven days.
  • You can buy a license online through the New York Department of Environmental Conservation website, by phone, or at sporting goods stores and bait shops.
  • Children under 16 and residents 70 and older do not need to pay for a license.

Where to buy a New York fishing license

The fastest way to buy a license is online at the New York Department of Environmental Conservation website. You can purchase and print it when ready, or have it mailed to you. You need a valid New York ID or driver's license to buy online.

You can also call the DEC at 1-866-933-2257 to buy over the phone. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Eastern time. A staff member will mail the license to you.

Many sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart locations sell licenses in person. Call ahead to confirm the store carries them. You will need to show ID at the counter.

How long licenses last and when they expire

A one-year license runs from March 1 through the last day of February of the following year. If you buy a license in October, it expires February 28 of the next year, not one year from purchase. A three-day license is valid for three consecutive calendar days. A seven-day license is valid for seven consecutive calendar days. A one-day license is valid only on the day you purchase it.

Check the expiration date printed on your license before you fish. If your license has expired, you cannot legally fish in New York waters.

What information you need to provide

To buy a license, you will need your full legal name, date of birth, and a valid New York ID or driver's license number. If you are buying online, you will also need an email address. The DEC uses this information to check your record and issue the license.

You do not need to provide information about where you plan to fish or what species you want to catch. The license covers all freshwater species or all saltwater species, depending on which type you buy.

Trout stamps and special permits

If you want to fish for trout in New York, you need a trout stamp in addition to your regular license. A trout stamp costs $10.50 and covers the same year as your license. You can buy it at the same time you buy your license, online or in person.

Some waters in New York require special permits or have catch limits that differ from the statewide rules. Check the DEC website or call before you fish a specific lake or stream to learn the local rules.

Licenses for people with disabilities

New York residents with a disability that prevents them from fishing may be issued a free license. You must explore through the DEC and provide medical documentation of the disability. Contact the DEC at 1-866-933-2257 to ask about the process and what documents you need.

Residents who are blind or have low vision can fish free with proof from the Department of Health. Residents with a permanent mobility disability can also fish free with the correct documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish without a license if I am visiting New York for a day?

No. A one-day license costs $10 for residents and $15 for non-residents. You can buy it online and print it when ready, or buy it in person at a tackle shop or sporting goods store.

Do I need a separate license for saltwater and freshwater?

Yes. A freshwater license does not cover saltwater fishing, and a saltwater license does not cover freshwater. If you plan to fish both, you need to buy both licenses.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of New York law. You can be fined and your fishing equipment may be taken. The amount of the fine depends on whether it is your first violation.

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

You can buy a license online or by phone and have it mailed to someone else's address. You will need their name and date of birth. The license will be in their name and they must carry it when they fish.

What if my license gets lost or damaged?

Contact the DEC at 1-866-933-2257 to request a replacement. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and the date you bought the original license. A replacement costs $5.