New York Fishing License Guide (2026)

New York requires a fishing license for anyone 16+ fishing in freshwater. Marine/saltwater fishing requires a free Marine Registry. The DEC manages all licensing.

16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$25
Resident/yr
$50
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident
 $25
7-Day Resident
 $12
1-Day Resident
 $5
Lifetime License
Ages 0-4: $460, 5-11: $560, 12-15: $660, 16+: $760
 $460

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident
 $50
7-Day Non-Resident
 $28
1-Day Non-Resident
 $10

Additional Stamps & Permits

Stamp Price Required?
Trout/Salmon Stamp
Required for trout and salmon fishing
 $10 Required
Marine Registry
Free registration required for saltwater fishing
 Free Required
See the complete New York cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

NY DEC Online Portal ↗

Instant digital license
🏪

Retail Locations

Town clerk offices, sporting goods stores, Walmart
Explore all New York purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Feb
14
Winter Free Fishing Weekend (through Feb 15 )
Freshwater only · Ice fishing weekend
Jun
27
Summer Free Fishing Weekend (through Jun 28 )
Freshwater only
Sep
26
Fall Free Fishing Day
Freshwater only

License Validity

NY licenses are valid for 365 days from October 1 to September 30.

Full New York free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 16 Exemption

Children under 16 do not need a fishing license.

👴

Free Lifetime (70+)

Residents 70+ can obtain a free lifetime fishing license.

🎖️

Military/Veteran

Free license for active duty and disabled veterans.

Full New York exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$0–$ 250
Fine Range
citation
Offense Type

Violation with fines up to $250 for first offense.

Learn more about New York fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to DEC 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.