Do You Need A Fishing License For Catch And Release?

By: Dave Samuel

Updated On: July 28, 2025

Last weekend on Lake Travis, I watched a game warden write a $325 ticket to a guy who swore he was "just catching and releasing." The angler kept insisting he didn't need a license since he wasn't keeping any fish. Wrong move. That expensive lesson is exactly why I'm writing this guide.

Here's the short answer that'll save you hundreds in fines: Yes, you need a fishing license for catch and release in almost every state. The moment you cast that line – whether you're keeping fish or kissing them goodbye – you're legally fishing.

I've been kayak fishing for over a decade, and I've seen plenty of well-meaning anglers get hit with hefty fines for this simple misunderstanding. Let me break down exactly what you need to know about fishing license requirements by state, so you can focus on landing fish instead of landing in legal trouble.

Why You Need a License Even for Catch and Release?

The biggest misconception I hear at boat ramps is "I'm not keeping anything, so I don't need a license." Here's why that logic doesn't float:

You're paying for the attempt, not the harvest. A license is required to attempt to take fish. If you cast a line or catch and release, you need a fishing license. Think of it like a hunting license – you need one whether you bag a deer or go home empty-handed.

Your license fees fund critical conservation work:

Fish stocking programs
Habitat restoration
Boat ramp maintenance
Wildlife management
Conservation officer salaries

When I first started fishing from my modular kayak, I thought the same thing. Then a friendly conservation officer explained that even practicing my casting technique in fish-bearing waters technically requires a license.

State-by-State License Requirements

Let me share what I've learned fishing across the country. While the general rule is "yes, you need a license," each state has its own quirks.

States That Always Require Licenses for Catch and Release

Florida: A saltwater fishing license is required to attempt to take any native or nonnative marine organisms, such as crabs, lobsters, and marine plants. This includes catch and release. I learned this the hard way surf fishing in Destin – $50 fine plus the cost of a license.

Texas: A valid fishing license with a freshwater or saltwater endorsement is required of any resident who fishes or takes fish, mussels, clams, crayfish, or other aquatic life in the public waters of Texas. They're serious about this – I've seen wardens checking licenses at every popular kayak fishing spot.

Washington: Everyone age 15 and older needs a fishing license. Plus, if you're targeting salmon or steelhead, you need a catch record card even for catch and release.

Michigan: You must purchase a fishing license if you are 17 years of age or older to fish. The Great Lakes don't mess around with conservation.

Colorado: Annual fishing licenses are valid March 1 through March 31 (13 months). Their high-altitude lakes need protection, and licenses fund it.

The California Exception (Sort Of)

California has one notable exception that gets people confused: In some other states like California, you are not required to purchase a fishing license if you are fishing on a public pier. But here's the catch – this ONLY applies to public ocean piers. The moment you step off that pier or fish anywhere else, you need a license.

Who's Exempt from Fishing License Requirements?

Before you assume you need a license, check if you fall into an exempt category. I've fished with plenty of folks who didn't realize they qualified for free fishing.

Age Exemptions

Almost every state offers free fishing for kids:

Under 16: Most states (like Florida and California)
Under 17: Texas, Michigan
Under 15: Washington requires everyone 15+ to have a license

My nephew fished with me for three years before needing his first license on his 16th birthday. It's a great way to get kids hooked on fishing without the added expense.

Senior Exemptions

Many states offer free or reduced-price licenses for seniors:

Florida: Resident seniors age 65 or older with proof of age or residency
Texas: Residents 65+ born on or after January 1, 1931 can get discounted packages
Alabama: Residents 65+ fish free in state waters

Special Exemptions

Disabled Veterans: Most states offer free licenses to disabled veterans. For Michigan residents who are veterans with 100 percent disability or full-time active-duty military, fees are waived for hunting and fishing licenses.

Private Property: Those fishing in a fish pond of 20 acres or less which is located entirely within the private property of its owner. But be careful – if that pond connects to public waters, you need a license.

Active Military: Florida residents who are members of the Armed Forces of the United States, who are not stationed in this state and home on leave for 30 days or less.

Fine for Fishing Without License: What You're Risking?

Let me paint you a picture of what happens when you get caught fishing without a license. It's not pretty, and it's way more expensive than just buying the license in the first place.

Typical Fines by State

Based on my research and unfortunately, some friends' experiences, here's what you're looking at:

California: You'll be charged with a misdemeanor and will receive a fine ranging anywhere from $35 to $500. You may also face up to 30 days in prison.

Florida: The fine for no license ranges from a value equal to the license cost plus $50. For residents, that's up to $50 for first offense, $100 for subsequent offenses.

Texas: Hunting or fishing after failing or refusing to pay civil restitution is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by a $500 - $4,000 fine; punishment in jail (not to exceed one year); or both.

Tennessee: Fine is $10-50 plus court costs. Court costs vary from county to county. One forum member mentioned total costs of $239-329 with court fees.

Arizona: Fishing without a valid license is a criminal offense in the state of Arizona, resulting in a class 2 misdemeanor.

The Hidden Costs

Beyond the base fine, you're looking at:

Court costs (often $200-300+)
Time off work for court appearances
Criminal record in some states
Potential license revocation
Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact consequences (your violation follows you to other states)

A buddy of mine got caught bass fishing without a license in Pennsylvania. The criminal penalty is by degree, for instance: For a summary offense of the first degree, a fine of $250 or imprisonment not exceeding 90 days. He ended up paying over $400 total with court costs.

Can You Fish Without a License Anywhere?

Yes, but these opportunities are limited. Here's where you can legally wet a line without a license:

Free Fishing Days

Most states offer 1-3 days per year where no license is required:

Illinois: Saturday May 10, 2025 is Free Fishing Day. No fishing license is required.
Texas: First Saturday in June
Many states: National Fishing and Boating Week in early June

I always mark these dates on my calendar – they're perfect for introducing new people to fishing without the license commitment.

License-Free Locations

Some State Parks: Texas state parks allow fishing without a license within park boundaries. But double-check – not all "parks" are state parks.

Private Property: If you own the pond and it doesn't connect to public waters, you're usually good to go.

Ocean Piers in California: But only public ocean piers, and only in California.

How to Get Your Fishing License?

Gone are the days of driving to the courthouse for a license. Here's how I get mine:

Online (Easiest)

Every state now offers online purchasing. Takes 5-10 minutes, and you can usually print a temporary license immediately. If your WILD ID has an email address associated with it, you will be emailed a temporary license to use for that 10-day period.

Retail Locations

Walmart (nationwide)
Sporting goods stores
Bait shops
Some gas stations near popular fishing areas

By Phone

Most states have a hotline, though you'll wait longer than ordering online.

What You'll Need?

Driver's license or ID
Social Security number (federal requirement)
Credit card
Proof of residency (for resident rates)

Legal Fishing Without License: Special Circumstances

Even with a license, you need to follow the rules. Here's what else matters:

Catch and Release Best Practices

Just because you're releasing fish doesn't mean anything goes. I've learned these practices keep fish alive and keep you legal:

Use barbless hooks when possible
Don't fish where it's catch-and-release only without proper gear
Land the fish as quickly as possible.
Keep fish in the water when removing hooks
No culling in tournaments without proper permits

Special Endorsements You Might Need

Your basic license might not cover everything:

Trout stamps (many states)
Salmon/steelhead tags
Two-rod stamps (Colorado)
Saltwater endorsements (coastal states)

I once drove three hours to a trout stream only to discover I needed a $10 trout stamp on top of my license. Lesson learned.

What About Kayak Fishing?

Since this is a kayak fishing site, let me address the elephant on the water: Yes, you need a license even when fishing from a kayak.

I've heard every excuse:

"But I'm not in a motorboat"
"I'm just paddling around with a rod"
"It's catch and release only"

Doesn't matter. If you're fishing, you need a license. Period.

The good news? Many states offer discounts for non-motorized vessel anglers, and having a license protects the waters we love to paddle.

International Fishing License Requirements

Planning a fishing trip outside the U.S.? Here's what I've learned from my travels:

Canada: License required everywhere, even for catch and release. In Ontario there is a conservation license that has reduced fees and is designed with catch and release fishing in mind.

UK: England and Wales require rod licenses. Scotland generally doesn't, but you need landowner permission.

Ireland: You do not need a license for catch and release fishing in the Republic of Ireland. Lucky Irish!

Australia: Varies by state. Queensland doesn't require one, but New South Wales does.

FAQ Section

Can I get sick from bass worms?

Not if you cook the fish properly. These parasites can't survive cooking temperatures or mature in human hosts. I've eaten thousands of bass without issues. Most parasites in freshwater fish are harmless to humans when the fish is cooked to 145°F.

Do all bass have worms?

No, but most wild bass carry some parasites. In my experience, 60-70% have visible parasites, though it varies by location and season. It's completely normal and doesn't mean the water is polluted. I just cut around any visible worms and cook thoroughly.

Can I use a fishing license from one state in another?

Generally no, except for specific border water agreements. Some examples:

Lake Texoma (Texas/Oklahoma shared license)
Some areas along the Mississippi River
Specific reciprocal agreements

Always check before crossing state lines. That Colorado license won't help you in Utah.

How long does a fishing license last?

Most states offer:

Annual licenses (usually calendar year or 365 days from purchase)
Short-term (1-day, 3-day, 7-day options)
Lifetime licenses (great investment if you fish regularly)

Colorado residents must provide proof of residency to purchase any fishing licenses set aside for Colorado residents.

What happens if I'm caught fishing without a license?

You'll receive a citation requiring court appearance or fine payment. If you fail to appear in court, refuse the citation, or fail to pay your fine, you will have to pay an additional fine of $500+ and spend up to 60 days in jail. Not worth the risk.

Do I need a license for catch and release in saltwater?

Yes, in most coastal states. A saltwater fishing license is required to attempt to take any native or nonnative marine organisms. Some states have pier exemptions, but check local regulations.

Can kids fish without a license?

Yes, but age limits vary:

Most states: Under 16
Some states: Under 17 or 18
Always free, even during tournaments

Great way to introduce kids to fishing!

Is there a penalty for not having my license on me while fishing?

Yes! Most states require you to have your license on your person (physical or digital) while fishing. Some allow 24 hours to produce it, but why risk it? I keep photos on my phone and a copy in my waterproof kayak storage.

The Bottom Line

Look, I get it. Fishing licenses seem like just another fee, especially when you're releasing everything. But after years on the water and seeing the conservation work these fees fund, I'm happy to pay my share.

That $30-50 annual license is way cheaper than a $300+ fine. Plus, you're supporting the fisheries we all love. Whether you're wading, shore fishing, or paddling your fishing kayak, get your license first.

The fish don't care if you have a license, but the game warden sure does. And trust me, they're out there checking – I see them every weekend at popular spots.

Stay legal, practice good catch and release techniques, and we'll all enjoy better fishing for years to come. See you on the water!

Remember: Fishing regulations change frequently. Always check your state's current requirements before heading out. When in doubt, buy the license – it's cheaper than the alternative.