Michigan fishing licenses 2025: How much they cost and how to apply

Fishing licenses can be purchased from the Department of Natural Resources online or in person at various locations
Licenses range between $2 and $26 and are valid until March 31, 2026
Residents 17 and older must have a license to fish. Individuals younger than 17 can still fish without one.

As hunting season wraps up and open-water fishing season approaches, Michigan residents can start buying or renewing their fishing licenses.

Adults must obtain a fishing license for fish, amphibians, crustaceans and reptiles in Michigan ahead of the start of the season, April 1. The license remains valid until March 31, 2026.

How much are licenses?

Fishing licenses are $26 for residents and $76 for nonresidents. Michigan seniors who are 65 and older, as well as state residents who are legally blind can purchase a license for $11, while youth younger than 17 can purchase one for $2. Day passes for anyone, resident or nonresident, are $10.

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Where can I buy a license?

Fishing licenses can be purchased online on the Department of Natural Resources website or in person at a DNR office, snowmobile dealerships and at other licensed agent locations.

Can I fish anywhere in Michigan?

Fishing license holders can fish in any of the Great Lakes and thousands of inland waters.

Since Michigan shares the Great Lakes with other states and Canada, license holders have to be cautious where they fish because a Michigan license is only valid within the state’s water border.

What about elsewhere?

In Ontario, fishers and hunters must purchase an outdoors card for $8.57 Canadian in addition to a fishing license, which is $83.19 for non-Canada residents. In Ohio, fishing licenses are $50.96 for nonresidents, and $60 in Indiana.

When don’t I need a license?

Michigan will waive all fishing licenses on June 7-8 for residents and out-of-state visitors. Additionally, recreational passports won’t be required for entry into state parks during free fishing weekend.