FishKillFlea Virginia Fishing License Guide (2026)
Virginia requires a fishing license for anyone 16 or older. The Commonwealth offers separate freshwater ($23) and saltwater ($17) licenses, plus a combo ($39). Blue Ridge trout streams, Chesapeake Bay, and the Shenandoah River make VA a diverse fishing destination. Pier fishing is exempt from license requirements.
Official VA Website →16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$23
Resident/yr
$47
Non-Res/yr
💰 License Costs (2026)
Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Resident Freshwater 12 months from purchase | $23 |
| Annual Resident Saltwater Tidal/coastal waters | $17 |
| Annual Resident Freshwater + Saltwater Best value for both | $39 |
| 1-Day Resident Freshwater | $7 |
| 1-Day Resident Saltwater | $6 |
| Lifetime Fishing License $250–$500 depending on age at purchase | $250 |
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Non-Resident Freshwater | $47 |
| 5-Day Non-Resident | $20 |
| 1-Day Non-Resident | $7 |
| 10-Day NR Saltwater | $10 |
Senior & Special Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Senior Freshwater (65+) $9 — annual freshwater | $9 |
| Senior Lifetime Saltwater (65+) $5 — lifetime saltwater | $5 |
Additional Stamps & Permits
| Stamp | Price | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Trout License Required for fishing in designated stocked trout waters (Oct 1 – Jun 15) | $23 | Required |
| National Forest Permit Required for fishing in some national forest areas | $4.50 | Optional |
📍 Where to Buy
Explore all Virginia purchase options →📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days
Free Fishing Days 2026
Jun
6
Jun
7
License Validity
👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions
👶
Under 16 Exemption
👴
Senior Discount (65+)
📍
Public Pier Exemption
🎖️
Military & 100% Disabled Vets
⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License
$50–$
500
misdemeanor
🔧 How to Get Your License
-
1
Visit the Official Portal
-
2
Select Your License Type
-
3
Complete Payment & Download