Massachusetts Fishing License Guide (2026)

Massachusetts requires a freshwater fishing license for anyone 15 years or older. No saltwater fishing license is needed — all saltwater fishing in MA is free. Excellent trout fishing on Cape Cod, bass fishing on Quabbin Reservoir.

15+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$27.50
Resident/yr
$37.50
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident Freshwater
$27.50
1-Day Resident
$8

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident
$37.50
3-Day Non-Resident
$23.50

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior (65-69)
$16.25
Senior (70+)
FREE for MA residents 70+
$0
See the complete Massachusetts cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

MassWildlife Online ↗

Instant digital license
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 (617) 626-1590
🏪

Retail Locations

Town clerks, sporting goods stores
Explore all Massachusetts purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
6
National Free Fishing Day
All waters · All regulations apply.

License Validity

Massachusetts licenses expire on December 31 each year.

Full Massachusetts free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 15 Exemption

Children under 15 do not need a fishing license.

👴

FREE License for Seniors (70+)

Massachusetts residents 70+ can fish for free.

FREE Saltwater Fishing

No saltwater fishing license required in Massachusetts.

🎖️

Military/Veterans

Active military and disabled veterans get free fishing license.

Full Massachusetts exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$50–$ 100
Fine Range
citation
Offense Type

Class E violation with fines $50-$100.

Learn more about Massachusetts fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to MassWildlife 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.