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
See the complete Iowa cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

Iowa DNR GoOutdoorsIowa ↗

Instant digital license
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 (515) 725-8200
🏪

Retail Locations

Walmart, county recorders, sporting goods stores
Explore all Iowa purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
5
Free Fishing Weekend (through Jun 7 )
All waters · First full weekend in June.

License Validity

Iowa licenses expire on January 10 of the following year.

Full Iowa free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 16 Exemption

Children under 16 do not need a fishing license.

👴

Senior Discount (65+)

Iowa residents 65+ pay only $13.50 for annual license.

🎖️

Military on Leave

Active military on leave get a free fishing license.

Landowner Exemption

Landowners fishing on their own property are exempt.

Full Iowa exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$50–$ 500
Fine Range
citation
Offense Type

Scheduled violation with fines $50-$500.

Learn more about Iowa fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to Iowa DNR 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.