Missouri Fishing License Guide (2026)

Missouri requires a fishing permit for anyone 16 years or older. The state is a national leader in conservation, with free public fishing areas statewide. Table Rock Lake, Lake of the Ozarks, and Truman Lake offer world-class bass fishing.

16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$12
Resident/yr
$42
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident Fishing Permit
 $12

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident
 $42
3-Day Non-Resident
 $12
1-Day Non-Resident
 $7

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior Permit (65+)
 $7

Additional Stamps & Permits

Stamp Price Required?
Trout Permit
Required for trout fishing in designated areas
 $7 Required
See the complete Missouri cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

MDC Online Licensing ↗

Instant digital license
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 (573) 522-4115
🏪

Retail Locations

Walmart, Bass Pro Shops (HQ in Springfield!), sporting goods
Explore all Missouri purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
6
Free Fishing Weekend (through Jun 7 )
All waters · First full weekend in June.

License Validity

Missouri licenses expire on the last day of February each year.

Full Missouri free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 16 Exemption

Children under 16 do not need a fishing permit.

👴

Senior Discount (65+)

Missouri residents 65+ pay $7 for annual permit.

🎖️

Military on Leave

Active military on leave get a free fishing permit.

✅

Landowner Exemption

Landowners fishing on their own property are exempt.

Full Missouri exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$10–$ 1000
Fine Range
misdemeanor
Offense Type

Class A misdemeanor with fines $10-$1,000.

Learn more about Missouri fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to MDC 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.