Kansas Fishing License Guide (2026)

Kansas requires a fishing license for anyone 16-74. The state offers Milford Lake (largest reservoir), El Dorado Lake for walleye, and excellent catfish on the Kansas River.

16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$27.50
Resident/yr
$52.50
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident
 $27.50
Lifetime Resident
 $440

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident
 $52.50
5-Day Non-Resident
 $23.50
24-Hour Non-Resident
 $8

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior License (65+)
 $13.75

Additional Stamps & Permits

Stamp Price Required?
Trout Permit
Required for trout fishing
 $14.50 Required
See the complete Kansas cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

KS Outdoors ↗

Instant digital license
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 (620) 672-5911
🏪

Retail Locations

Walmart, county clerks, sporting goods stores
Explore all Kansas purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
6
Free Fishing Day
All waters · First Saturday in June.

License Validity

Kansas licenses expire on December 31 each year.

Full Kansas free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 16 Exemption

Children under 16 do not need a fishing license.

👴

FREE License (75+)

Kansas residents 75 and older can fish for free. Ages 65-74 get half price.

🎖️

Military on Leave

Active military on leave get a free fishing license.

Full Kansas exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$50–$ 1000
Fine Range
misdemeanor
Offense Type

Unclassified misdemeanor with fines $50-$1,000.

Learn more about Kansas fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to KDWP 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.