Connecticut Fishing License Guide (2026)

Connecticut requires a fishing license for anyone 16 years or older. No separate saltwater license is required — all marine fishing is covered by the state license. CT offers excellent freshwater trout fishing and Long Island Sound saltwater fishing.

16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$28
Resident/yr
$55
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident
$28

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident
$55
3-Day Non-Resident
$22
1-Day Non-Resident
$10

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior License (65+)
FREE for CT residents 65+
$0

Additional Stamps & Permits

Stamp Price Required?
Inland Trout/Salmon Stamp
Required for trout and salmon fishing in inland waters
$5 Required
See the complete Connecticut cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

CT DEEP Online Licensing ↗

Instant digital license
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 (860) 424-3000
🏪

Retail Locations

Town clerks, sporting goods stores, bait shops
Explore all Connecticut purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Apr
18
Opening Day Free Fishing
All waters · Trout season opening day.
Jun
6
National Free Fishing Day
All waters

License Validity

Connecticut licenses expire on December 31 each year.

Full Connecticut free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 16 Exemption

Children under 16 do not need a fishing license.

👴

FREE License for Seniors (65+)

Connecticut residents 65 and older can fish for free.

🎖️

Disabled Veterans

Disabled veterans qualify for a free fishing license.

Full Connecticut exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$50–$ 500
Fine Range
infraction
Offense Type

Infraction with fines $50-$500.

Learn more about Connecticut fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to DEEP Online Licensing ↗

  2. 2

    Select Your License Type

    Choose between resident/non-resident, duration, and water type based on your needs.

  3. 3

    Complete Payment & Download

    Pay online and receive your digital license instantly. You may also print a physical copy.