MA Fishing License Exemptions (2026) — 70+ FREE, Minor 15-17 FREE, Saltwater 60+ FREE

Massachusetts fishing license age: under 15 free, 15-17 free freshwater, 65-69 $20, 70+ FREE. Saltwater 60+ FREE.

The Massachusetts fishing license age exemptions (source: MassWildlife):

CategoryFreshwaterSaltwaterWildlands Stamp?
Under 15FREE — no license neededFREE — no permit neededNo
Resident Minor (15-17)FREE (register)$10 (under 60)No
Resident 18-64$40.00$10.00Yes ($5)
Resident Senior (65-69)$20.00FREE (60+)Yes ($5)
Resident Senior (70+)FREEFREENo
Paraplegic / Blind / IDFREEFREENo
Non-Resident 15-17$8.00$10.00Yes ($5)

Massachusetts Fishing License Age

The MA fishing license age starts at 15 — one year younger than most states — but minors 15-17 get free freshwater licenses. Under 15 = completely free. Seniors 70+ = free everything.

Saltwater Exemption: 60+

The ocean fishing license MA saltwater permit is FREE for ages 60+ — you must still obtain the permit through MassFishHunt but there's no charge.

See license types or cost details.

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