New Mexico Fishing License Guide (2026)

New Mexico requires a fishing license for anyone 12 years or older. The Land of Enchantment offers diverse fishing from high mountain trout streams in the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan Ranges to warm-water bass fishing at Elephant Butte and Caballo Reservoirs.

12+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$25
Resident/yr
$56
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident
 $25

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident
 $56
5-Day Non-Resident
 $24
1-Day Non-Resident
 $12

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior License (65+)
 $8
See the complete New Mexico cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

NMDGF Online Licensing ↗

Instant digital license
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 (888) 248-6866
🏪

Retail Locations

Walmart, sporting goods stores, NMDGF offices
Explore all New Mexico purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
6
National Free Fishing Day
All waters

License Validity

New Mexico licenses valid for 12 months from purchase.

Full New Mexico free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 12 Exemption

Children under 12 do not need a fishing license.

👴

Senior Discount (65+)

New Mexico residents 65+ qualify for discounted license.

♿

Disabled Veterans

Disabled veterans get free fishing license.

Full New Mexico exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$50–$ 500
Fine Range
citation
Offense Type

Civil violation with fines $50-$500.

Learn more about New Mexico fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to NMDGF 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.