FishKillFlea The Iowa DNR manages the fishing license in Iowa through the Go Outdoors Iowa system. Wondering how much is Iowa fishing license? Residents pay $22 annually for all warmwater species, with an optional trout fee of $14.50 for NE Iowa's incredible Driftless Area streams.
2025-2026 Iowa Fishing License Cost — Resident
The DNR Iowa fishing license costs (source: Iowa DNR Official):
| License | Price | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fishing | $22.00 | Jan 1 – Jan 10 next year | All warmwater species |
| Angler's Special (3-Year) | $62.00 | 3 years | Saves $4 — convenient |
| Outdoor Combo (Fish+Hunt+Habitat) | $55.00 | Annual | Best value for outdoors enthusiasts |
| 7-Day Fishing | $15.50 | 7 days | Extended trip |
| 1-Day Fishing | $10.50 | 1 day | Quick outing |
| Trout Fee | +$14.50 | Annual | Required for trout — any age! |
| Bonus Line (3rd pole) | $14.00 | Annual | Fish with 3 lines |
| Senior 65+ Lifetime Fishing | $61.50 | Lifetime | One-time — pays for itself in 3 years! |
| Senior 65+ Lifetime Trout | $65.00 | Lifetime | Lifetime trout fee access |
Out of State Fishing License Iowa — Non-Resident
The out of state fishing license Iowa costs:
| License | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| NR Annual | $48.00 | Calendar year |
| NR 7-Day | $37.50 | 7 days |
| NR 3-Day | $20.50 | 3 days |
| NR 1-Day | $12.00 | 1 day |
| NR Trout Fee | +$17.50 | Annual |
Compare Iowa With Neighboring States
| State | Res Annual | NR Annual | NR 1-Day | Senior Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $25.00 | $51.00 | $14.00 | 65+ $8.50 |
| Wisconsin | $20.00 | $50.00 | $10.00 | 65+ $7.00 |
| Missouri | $12.00 | $49.00 | — | 65+ $7.00 |
| Nebraska | $38.00 | $79.00 | $13.00 | 65+ $8.00 |
| South Dakota | $28.00 | $79.00 | $18.00 | 65+ $5.00 |
Iowa at $22 is middle of the pack for the Midwest. Missouri ($12) is cheapest. Iowa's trout fee ($14.50) adds up, but NE Iowa Driftless streams are worth it. The $61.50 senior lifetime is excellent value.
FAQ
How much is Iowa fishing license for non-residents?
The out of state fishing license Iowa costs $48 annual, $37.50 for 7 days, $20.50 for 3 days, or $12 for 1 day. Add $17.50 trout fee for Driftless streams. See IA fishing spots.
Do I need a trout fee even if I'm exempt from the license?
Yes! The Iowa trout fee is required for ALL ages — even anglers under 16 who don't need a fishing license must purchase the trout fee ($14.50) to fish trout waters.