As an avid angler in Mississippi, it’s crucial to understand the state’s fishing license requirements, particularly when it comes to saltwater fishing. In 2024, the rules and regulations surrounding saltwater fishing licenses in Mississippi remain largely the same as in previous years. However, it’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date with the latest information to ensure you’re fishing legally and responsibly.
Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licenses
According to the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR), a saltwater fishing license is required for anyone to harvest fish in coastal and marine waters (Miss Code Ann. Section 49-15-313) of this state, with a few exceptions:
Any person under the age of 16
Residents who have been declared by the Veterans Administration as having a total service-connected disability or have been declared totally disabled by the Social Security Administration. Proof is required.
Residents 65 years of age or older are required to purchase a lifetime recreational saltwater fishing license for a one-time fee.
It’s important to note that the saltwater fishing license requirement applies to waters south of Highway 90. Between Highway 90 and Interstate 10, either a saltwater or freshwater license is valid, while above Interstate 10, a freshwater license is required.
Recreational saltwater fishing licenses can be purchased online at ms.gov, at the MDMR office, or from authorized agents located at various coastal locations in Mississippi.
License Fees
The cost of a recreational saltwater fishing license in Mississippi varies depending on the type of license and the angler’s residency status. Here are the current license fees for 2024:
License Type Resident Fee
Recreational $15
Senior Lifetime (65 ) $5
The recreational saltwater fishing license fee includes a $10 license fee plus $2.29 in processing and agent fees. Residents 65 years of age or older can purchase a lifetime recreational saltwater fishing license for a one-time fee of $5.
Commercial Fishing Licenses
In addition to recreational fishing licenses, Mississippi also requires commercial fishing licenses for those engaged in commercial fishing activities. All commercial boats, whether resident or nonresident, fishing for shrimp, oysters, crabs, or finfish (with gill net, trammel net, or similar approved nets) within the territorial waters of the state of Mississippi are required to be licensed.
Commercial fishing licenses can be purchased at the MDMR office in Biloxi, Mississippi. Before purchasing a commercial license, anglers must provide proof of residence, such as a valid driver’s license, homestead exemption, voter’s registration card, or a Mississippi state tax return, along with valid boat registration or documentation.
It’s important to note that all commercial seafood licenses expire on April 30 of each year.
Exemptions and Special Provisions
While most anglers are required to purchase a saltwater fishing license in Mississippi, there are a few exemptions and special provisions to keep in mind:
Anyone exempt from the license requirements must have a valid driver’s license and proof of service-connected or Social Security disability, if applicable, in their possession while fishing.
Temporary residents stationed at a Mississippi military base can use a military I.D. to purchase a resident fishing license.
Free fishing days – Anyone may fish without a recreational saltwater fishing license in state marine waters, which are waters south of I-10, on the first weekend of National Fishing and Boating Week in June and on July 4.
In conclusion, understanding the saltwater fishing license requirements in Mississippi is essential for anglers looking to enjoy the state’s coastal and marine waters in 2024. By familiarizing yourself with the rules, fees, and exemptions, you can fish legally and responsibly while contributing to the conservation and management of Mississippi’s valuable fishery resources.