In the state of California, anglers have long been required to carry a physical copy of their fishing license when out on the water. However, in recent years, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has taken steps to modernize the licensing process, making it more convenient for anglers to obtain and display their licenses.
The Launch of the CDFW License App
In 2021, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law that allowed the CDFW to develop a mobile app for displaying fishing licenses and validations. This app, known as the CDFW License App, was launched in 2022 and is available for both iOS and Android devices.
The app allows anglers to electronically display their fishing licenses and sportfishing validations on their smartphones, eliminating the need to carry a physical license. Users can also access other useful features, such as regulation booklets, the fish planting schedule, and online license sales and services.
What Can Be Displayed on the App?
The CDFW License App currently offers the following items for display:
365-day sport fishing licenses (resident and nonresident)
One-, two- and 10-day sportfishing licenses
Ocean enhancement validation
Recreational crab trap validation
Second-rod validation
While the app provides proof of purchase for report cards required for fishing certain species, such as steelhead, sturgeon, abalone, spiny lobster, and salmon in specific rivers, these report cards are not valid entitlements and must still be carried physically.
The CDFW plans to expand the app’s functionality in 2024 by adding hunting licenses and related hunting validations.
Is a Digital License Sufficient?
Despite the convenience of the CDFW License App, it’s important to note that anglers are still required by law to present the original paper copy of their fishing license to a game warden upon request. A digital version displayed on a smartphone is not considered sufficient.
This is because fishing licenses in California are printed on special waterproof paper to prevent fraudulent duplication. Game wardens are trained to identify these licenses and may not be able to verify the authenticity of a digital version.
Therefore, while the CDFW License App is a useful tool for anglers to access their license information and other resources, it should not be used as a replacement for the physical license. Anglers should continue to carry their original paper license with them when fishing in California.
Obtaining a Fishing License in California
Fishing licenses in California can be obtained through various channels, including:
Online through the CDFW’s Online License Sales and Services website
Over the telephone through the CDFW’s authorized telephone sales agent at (800) 565-1458
In person at CDFW license sales offices or through independent license sales agents, such as local sporting goods stores, discount stores, or bait and tackle shops
Anglers can also purchase licenses for others as gifts, and lifetime licenses are available for both sport fishing and hunting.
In addition to the standard fishing licenses, the CDFW offers discounted licenses for low-income seniors, disabled veterans, recovering service members, and free licenses for low-income Native Americans and individuals with certain disabilities.
As of 2023, one-year fishing licenses in California are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, making them more attractive to anglers who may not have been willing to pay the same price for fewer days of fishing under the previous system.