Iowa Fishing License Guide (2026)
Iowa requires a fishing license for anyone 16 years or older. The state boasts exceptional walleye fishing on the Mississippi River, trophy catfish in the Iowa and Des Moines Rivers, and excellent trout streams in northeast Iowa.
16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$22
Resident/yr
$48.50
Non-Res/yr
💰 License Costs (2026)
Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Resident | $22 |
| Lifetime Resident | $525 |
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Non-Resident | $48.50 |
| 7-Day Non-Resident | $21 |
| 1-Day Non-Resident | $8.50 |
Senior & Special Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Senior License (65+) | $13.50 |
Additional Stamps & Permits
| Stamp | Price | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Trout Stamp Required for trout fishing in designated waters | $15.50 | Required |
📍 Where to Buy
Explore all Iowa purchase options →📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days
Free Fishing Days 2026
Jun
5
License Validity
👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions
👶
Under 16 Exemption
👴
Senior Discount (65+)
🎖️
Military on Leave
✅
Landowner Exemption
⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License
$50–$
500
citation
🔧 How to Get Your License
-
1
Visit the Official Portal
-
2
Select Your License Type
-
3
Complete Payment & Download