DE Fishing License Exemptions (2026) — Seniors FREE, Saltwater FREE, Age & Military

Delaware fishing license age: under 16 free, seniors 65+ FREE, saltwater FREE all ages. FIN required 16+.

The Delaware fishing license age exemptions (source: DE DNREC Official):

Which Delaware Fishing License Do You Need?Where will you fish?Ponds / RiversFreshwater: $8.50(NR $20.00)Bay / Ocean / SoundSaltwater: FREE!(Free for everyone)Surf Fishing (beach)Plate: $90 res(Drive on beach!)+ Trout Stamp $4.20 (for trout)Just register — FIN numberOff-peak ends 2027!Seniors 65+ = ALL licenses FREE • Under 16 = FREE • DE DNREC
CategoryFreshwaterSaltwaterFIN # Needed?
Under 12FREE — no licenseFREENo
Ages 12-15FREE — no licenseFREENo
Ages 16-64 (resident)$8.50FREE (registration)Yes — auto with purchase
Delaware Fishing License for Seniors (65+)FREEFREEYes — apply separately
Disabled (resident)FREEFREEYes
Active military (DE)FREEFREEYes

Delaware Fishing License Age

The Delaware fishing license age starts at 16 for freshwater ($8.50). Under 16 = free everything. Saltwater = free for ALL ages, no exceptions. Seniors 65+ = completely free (freshwater + trout stamp included).

FIN Number

The Fisherman Information Network (FIN) number is required for anyone 16+ who fishes in Delaware — even if your license is free. It's automatically assigned when you purchase a permit, or apply separately through DNREC if you're exempt.

See license types or cost details.

Apply for your fishing license Delaware →