Fishing License Age Requirements (2026) — Every State's Rules for Youth, Adults & Seniors

What age do you need a fishing license? In most states, anyone 16 or older needs a valid fishing license to fish in public waters. But the exact age varies — some states start at 12, others at 14, and several offer free licenses to seniors. This guide covers every state’s age requirements for youth, adults, and seniors.

Quick Answer: When Do You Need a Fishing License?

Youth Fishing License Requirements — State by State

States Where Children Under 16 Fish FREE

The vast majority of US states set the license requirement at age 16. Children under 16 can fish without a license in these states:

Alabama · Alaska · Arizona · Arkansas · California · Colorado · Florida · Georgia · Hawaii · Idaho · Illinois · Indiana · Iowa · Kansas · Kentucky · Louisiana · Maine · Maryland · Michigan · Minnesota · Mississippi · Missouri · Montana · Nebraska · Nevada · New Hampshire · New Jersey · New Mexico · New York · North Carolina · North Dakota · Ohio · Oklahoma · Oregon · Pennsylvania · Rhode Island · South Carolina · South Dakota · Tennessee · Texas · Utah · Vermont · Washington · West Virginia · Wisconsin · Wyoming

States With Different Youth Age Cutoffs

A few states set different age thresholds:

Discounted Youth Licenses (Ages 16-17)

Several states offer reduced-price licenses for teens who just crossed the license threshold:

Tip: Even when children fish free, they still must follow all catch limits, size restrictions, and gear regulations. An adult with a valid license should accompany them.

Senior Fishing License — Discounts & Free Options

States Where Seniors Fish Completely FREE

States With Reduced Senior Rates

Pro tip: If you’re approaching 65, check your state’s lifetime fishing license options. In some states, a lifetime license is cheaper than paying the senior rate for many years.

How Long Do Fishing Licenses Last?

Most fishing licenses are valid for one year, but the start date matters:

If your state uses a calendar year system, don’t buy in December — your license expires in just a few weeks. Wait until January for maximum value.

Special Exemptions Beyond Age

Besides age-based exemptions, these groups often qualify for free or reduced licenses:

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age do you need a fishing license? In most states, age 16. A few states start at 14 or 15 (Idaho, Montana, Massachusetts). Check the tables above for your state.

Do kids need a fishing license? In most states, children under 16 fish for free. They still must follow all regulations including catch limits and size restrictions.

At what age do you NOT need a fishing license? Many states offer free licenses to seniors 65+. In Kansas, residents 75+ need no license at all. See the senior exemptions table above.

Do seniors get free fishing licenses? In several states, yes — notably Georgia (65+), Alabama (65+), Kentucky (65+), and Kansas (75+). Many other states offer discounted senior rates.

Does a minor need their own fishing rod? A child can share a rod with a licensed adult. However, each angler (including children) has their own daily catch limit.

What if a child catches a fish over the limit? If the child is fishing without a license (because they’re exempt), the fish counts toward the licensed adult’s limit who is supervising them, in most states.

For detailed information about your state, visit our state pages or check if you even need a license for your situation.