MN Fishing Without a License — Penalties & Fines (2026)

Minnesota fishing penalties: fines for no license ($100–$300), regulation violations, and TIP hotline.

Fishing without a valid license in Minnesota is a misdemeanor offense. With the license costing just $25, the risk far outweighs the savings.

MN License Violations

ViolationClassificationFine Range
Fishing without a licenseMisdemeanor$100 – $300 + surcharges
Missing trout stampPetty Misdemeanor$75 – $200
Failure to display licensePetty Misdemeanor$50 – $100
MN License ($25) vs Fine ($300+) License$25 vs Fine + Surcharges + Court Costs$300–$1,000+ (12× the cost!)

Regulation Violations

ViolationFine RangeAdditional
Over bag limit$200 – $1,000Restitution per fish
Undersized fish$100 – $500Per fish under minimum
Illegal methods$300 – $3,000Equipment seizure
Netting/commercial without license$500 – $5,000Criminal charges

Report Violations

Call the MN DNR's Turn in Poachers (TIP) hotline at (800) 652-9093. Cash rewards are available for tips leading to convictions.

Get your MN fishing license today →