FishKillFlea The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MI DNR) manages the MI fishing license. At just $26 annually, Michigan offers the incredible All-Species License — which includes all Great Lakes fishing and all salmon/trout stamps in one simple purchase!
Last verified for the 2026 fishing season. Regulations subject to change.
2026 Michigan Fishing License Cost — Resident
| License | Price | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-Species Annual | $26.00 | Apr 1 – Mar 31 | Includes Trout/Salmon! |
| 24-Hour (1-Day) | $10.00 | 24 Hours | — |
| Senior (65+) | $11.00 | Apr 1 – Mar 31 | Incredible discount! |
| Blind (Resident) | $11.00 | Apr 1 – Mar 31 | — |
| Under 17 Youth | FREE | — | Or $2 voluntary youth license |
MI Non-Resident Fishing License
| License | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| NR All-Species Annual | $76.00 | Apr 1 – Mar 31 |
| NR 72-Hour (3-Day) | $30.00 | 72 consecutive hours |
| NR 24-Hour (1-Day) | $10.00 | 24 hours |
The $2 Voluntary Youth License
Kids under 17 fish entirely for FREE in Michigan. However, the DNR offers a $2 voluntary "Youth License" — buying this helps Michigan secure more federal conservation funding, and gives the kid a badge of honor!
Compare MI With Neighboring States
| State | Res Annual | NR Annual | Great Lakes | Trout/Salmon Stamp |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $25.00 | $50.96 | Erie Included | +$11 if kept |
| Indiana | $23.00 | $60.00 | Michigan +$11 | +$11 |
| Wisconsin | $20.00 | $50.00 | +$10 Great Lakes | +$10 |
| Illinois | $15.00 | $31.50 | Michigan +$5.50 | Included in GL stamp |
Michigan's $26 "All-Species" license is brilliant because you never have to worry about adding a Great Lakes stamp, a salmon stamp, or a trout stamp on top — it is fully comprehensive, granting access to 4 Great Lakes and 11,000 inland lakes! Both Wisconsin and Indiana require additional Lake Michigan / Salmon stamps to do what MI's base license allows.
FAQ
Does my $26 license cover Great Lakes Salmon?
Yes! Michigan simplified its structure. The $26 All-Species license covers every fish species in Michigan, including Lake Michigan Chinook salmon, Lake Superior Lake Trout, and inland stream brook trout. Discover the top locations for your all-species license in our guide to Michigan's best fishing spots.