Why Buy a Fishing License Early and Other License Questions
By Andy Whitcomb
Apr 21, 2025
New anglers sometimes have questions about the who, what, where, when, and why of fishing licenses. For example, the best time to get a fishing license question makes me think about the Chinese proverb about the best time to plant a tree, which is, or was, twenty years ago. The second-best time is now. Similarly, it is wise to buy your fishing license before it is too late.
Why buy a fishing license early? What happens if you fish without a license?
If fishing without a license, several things can occur, and none of them are good. I once agreed to take a colleague fishing. There were only 2 requirements for him to bring on the trip: a valid fishing license and a pair of neoprene waders, both of which he assured me he already possessed. He showed up with a hunting license (“it’s the same color as a fishing license”) and a thin pair of light, non-insulated nylon waders (“boy, the water sure is cold”).
He ended up evading fishing without a license fines which can be steep, but he was constantly looking over his shoulder, wondering if he was about to be approached by a game warden. Not only did this result in unnecessary tension during what normally is a stress-reducing activity, but it messed with the fishing “mojo” for the entire fishing party; no one caught a fish. When it comes to quality fishing time, there is no reason to flirt with bad vibes.
In addition to potential monetary and luck penalties, there are other reasons regarding the question of why buy a fishing license early. For example, there are new fishing license rules for 2025. Regulations such as size limits, quantities, and accessibility are continually changing to best fit each states’ fisheries. Fishing without a license also results in less funding for protecting and improving your fisheries through a variety of outlets.
Do I need a fishing license for catch and release?
Yes. Even if you don’t plan on harvesting fish and are skilled with catch and release practices such as crimping hook barbs, leaving fish in water, and keeping the fight as short as possible, sometimes fish still just do not survive the event. Even catch and release fishing areas benefit from fisheries management efforts supported by licensing.
Where to get a fishing license?
One can purchase a fishing license just about any place that sells fishing tackle and equipment. If you are like me, an in-person purchase in the fishing department helps with a grocery run to a big box store. Another place where to get a fishing license is online. The process for how to renew a fishing license online is simple and very much like any other online purchases.
How long does a fishing license last?
A fishing license usually lasts 12 months, but the starting times may differ from state to state. For example, in Pennsylvania, a new permit starts in January, whereas in New Mexico, a new license starts on April 1st. For most states, it is possible to purchase shorter term licenses for non-resident anglers, such as a 1-, 3-, 5- or 10-day license. Some states such as Pennsylvania may offer multi-year licenses, or you could purchase a lifetime license like an Oklahoman. Check with your state’s fishing license website as far as timing and fees, but whatever the cost, it is always a bargain and an earlier purchase means more potential great days of fishing.
