FishKillFlea· Guides · 2 min read
Fishing License Cost Guide 2026 — All 50 States Compared
Complete breakdown of fishing license costs across all US states. Compare resident, non-resident, annual, and daily license prices for 2026.
Fishing license costs vary significantly from state to state. This comprehensive guide breaks down what you can expect to pay in 2026, whether you’re a resident or visiting from out of state.
Average Fishing License Costs
Here’s a quick overview of what fishing licenses typically cost across the US:
| License Type | Low End | Average | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Annual Freshwater | $10 | $25 | $55 |
| Non-Resident Annual Freshwater | $30 | $65 | $150 |
| Resident Daily | $3 | $8 | $15 |
| Non-Resident Daily | $5 | $15 | $30 |
| Resident Lifetime | $200 | $500 | $1,000+ |
Most Affordable States for Fishing
These states offer some of the lowest fishing license fees in the country:
- Missouri — Resident annual: $12
- Wisconsin — Resident annual: $20
- Iowa — Resident annual: $22
- Kentucky — Resident annual: $23
- Indiana — Resident annual: $23
Most Expensive States for Fishing
Premium fishing destinations tend to charge more:
- Montana — Non-resident annual: $111
- Alaska — Non-resident annual: $145
- Wyoming — Non-resident annual: $102
- Colorado — Non-resident annual: $97
- Hawaii — Non-resident annual: $50 (with additional endorsements)
Additional Permits and Endorsements
Beyond your base fishing license, you may need additional permits:
- Trout stamp — $5–$15 in most states
- Saltwater endorsement — $5–$30
- Second rod permit — $5–$15
- Special species tags (salmon, steelhead) — $10–$50
- Federal duck stamp (if waterfowl hunting) — $25
Money-Saving Tips
1. Buy a Lifetime License
If you plan to fish in your home state for years to come, a lifetime license often pays for itself within 10–15 years.
2. Take Advantage of Free Fishing Days
Most states offer 1–4 free fishing days per year when no license is required. Check our Free Fishing Days guide for dates.
3. Look for Combination Licenses
Many states offer hunting + fishing combination licenses at a significant discount compared to buying separately.
4. Military and Senior Discounts
Active-duty military, veterans, seniors, and youth often qualify for free or reduced-cost licenses.
5. Fish in Affordable Neighboring States
If you live near a state border, compare non-resident daily license costs — some neighboring states offer great value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are fishing license fees refundable? Generally, no. Most states have no-refund policies on fishing licenses.
Do children need a fishing license? Most states exempt children under 16. Some states set the cutoff at 12 or 14.
Is a fishing license tax-deductible? Typically not, unless used for business purposes.
For state-specific pricing, visit our state pages to find exact costs for your location.