In California, if you’re 16 or older and plan to fish for any fish, shellfish, reptile, or amphibian, you’ll need a sport fishing license. Like other fishing regulations, the purpose of this requirement is to conserve fish populations and ensure future generations can enjoy fishing. So, How Much Is A California State Fishing License, and what else do you need to know? Let’s dive in.
It’s worth noting that you don’t need a license when fishing from a public pier in ocean waters. California also offers two free fishing days each year, providing an opportunity to try sport fishing without needing a license. You can find these dates listed on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) website.
Types of California Fishing Licenses
When it comes to getting a fishing license in California, you have several options. Your choice depends on your residency and how often you plan to fish.
- Annual Licenses: Valid from January 1 through December 31, or for the remainder of the year if purchased after January 1.
- Resident Sport Fishing License
- Nonresident Sport Fishing License
- Short-Term Licenses: Ideal for visitors or those who only fish occasionally.
- One-Day Sport Fishing License
- Two-Day Sport Fishing License
- Ten-Day Nonresident Sport Fishing License
- Lifetime Licenses: A one-time purchase that allows you to fish in California for life.
In California, a resident is defined as someone who has lived continuously in the state for at least six months before applying for a license, active military personnel, or Job Corps enrollees.
Reduced-Fee and Free Fishing Licenses
Besides resident and nonresident licenses, some anglers can get reduced-fee licenses if they meet specific qualifications. These include:
- Disabled Veterans
- Recovering Service Members
- Low-Income Seniors
California also offers free sport fishing licenses to:
- Low-Income Native Americans
- Individuals with Mobility Impairments, Blindness, or Developmental Disabilities
California Fishing License Fees
So, how much is a California state fishing license? Here’s a breakdown of the current fees. Keep in mind that these fees are subject to change annually based on inflation or deflation.
The current California annual fishing license fees are:
- Resident Sport Fishing License: $60.32
- Non-Resident Sport Fishing License: $164.94
For short-term licenses, the fees are:
- One-Day Sport Fishing License: $19.58
- Two-Day Sport Fishing License: $30.44
- Ten-Day Nonresident Sport Fishing License: $60.20
The fee for a lifetime fishing license varies based on age:
- 0-9: $667.50
- 10-39: $1,091.25
- 40-61: $983.25
- 62+: $667.50
These fees are used to help the state manage its fish and wildlife resources and provide enjoyable fishing experiences for the public. It’s crucial to remember that license fees are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.
Where to Buy a California Fishing License
You can buy any resident or nonresident fishing license through the CDFW website, at a license agent throughout the state, or at one of the CDFW license sales offices.
If your license is lost or destroyed, a license agent or CDFW license sales office can help you get a duplicate sport fishing license.
Caring for Your Fishing License
Because there is a small fee for a replacement license, you should take care of your license.
Never heat laminate licenses, as this will destroy them. Licenses exposed to extreme heat will darken and become discolored; however, a discolored license is still valid as long as it’s readable.
While you don’t have to wear your fishing license, you must have it in your immediate possession while fishing, except when diving. Knowing how much is a California state fishing license is important, but so is keeping it safe and valid.
