WA Fishing Without a License — Penalties & Fines (2026)

Washington fishing penalties: misdemeanor fines $150–$500, wild steelhead $5,000, WDFW hotline.

Fishing without a license in Washington is a misdemeanor with significant fines.

WA Violations

ViolationFine Range
No license$150 – $500
Missing Catch Record Card$150 – $250
Over bag limit (salmon)$500 – $5,000
Keeping wild steelhead$1,000 – $5,000
WA License ($30) vs Fine ($500+) License$30 vs Fine + Court Costs$500+ (17× the cost!)

Report Violations

Call WDFW Poaching Hotline: (877) 933-9847. Cash rewards for tips.

Get your WA fishing license today →