Hawaii Fishing License Guide (2026)

Hawaii ONLY requires a license for freshwater fishing. All saltwater/ocean fishing is completely FREE — no license needed! Freshwater fishing is limited but rewarding, with peacock bass, tilapia, and largemouth in reservoirs on Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island.

15+
Min Age
No
Free Days
$5
Resident/yr
$10
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident Freshwater
 $5

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident Freshwater
 $10
7-Day Non-Resident
 $5
30-Day Non-Resident
 $5

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior License (65+)
FREE for HI residents 65+
 $0
See the complete Hawaii cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

DLNR Online Licensing ↗

Instant digital license
🏪

DLNR Offices

Available at Division of Aquatic Resources offices on each island
Explore all Hawaii purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
6
National Free Fishing Day
Freshwater only · Freshwater only — saltwater always free.

License Validity

Hawaii freshwater licenses valid for 1 year from date of purchase.

Full Hawaii free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 15 Exemption

Children under 15 do not need a freshwater fishing license if accompanied by a licensed adult.

👴

FREE License for Seniors (65+)

Hawaii residents 65 and older get free freshwater fishing license.

✅

FREE Saltwater/Ocean Fishing

No license required for any saltwater or ocean fishing in Hawaii.

Full Hawaii exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$100–$ 500
Fine Range
citation
Offense Type

Civil violation with fines $100-$500.

Learn more about Hawaii fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to DLNR 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.