VT Fishing Without a License — Penalties, Fines & Creel Limits (2026)

VT fishing penalties: $50–$1,000. Game Warden TIP (800) 752-5378. Brook trout 12, salmon 2.

Fishing without a valid Vermont fishing license carries penalties from VT game wardens.

ViolationFine RangeNotes
No fishing license$50 – $400Per offense
Over creel limit$100 – $1,000 per fishPer-fish penalty
Fishing closed season$100 – $500Spawning streams

Key Creel Limits

SpeciesDaily LimitMin SizeNotes
Brook trout126″NEK ponds, mountain streams
Brown/rainbow trout612″Battenkill, rivers statewide
Lake trout215″Lake Champlain, deep lakes
Landlocked salmon215″Lake Champlain — trophy fishery
Largemouth bass510″Lakes, Otter Creek, Champlain
Walleye315″Lake Champlain — excellent walleye

Call VT Game Warden TIP: (800) 752-5378.

A Vermont fishing license is $28. Get yours. See costs.

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