Fishing is a beloved pastime for many Ohioans, offering a chance to connect with nature, relax, and enjoy the state’s abundant waterways. For those who frequently fish in Ohio, purchasing a lifetime fishing license can be a convenient and cost-effective option. In 2024, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife offers several license options, including lifetime licenses for residents.
Lifetime Fishing Licenses for Ohio Residents
Ohio residents have the opportunity to purchase a lifetime fishing license, which provides fishing privileges for the rest of their lives, regardless of where they live in the future. This license offers considerable savings and convenience to the holder and supports conservation programs in the state. Revenue generated from lifetime licenses provides long-term financial support for Ohio’s fish and wildlife.
To purchase a lifetime fishing license, Ohio residents must apply online, at any of the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s five district offices, or at the headquarters in Columbus. Proof of age and residency is required at the time of purchase. Lifetime license holders will receive a plastic card (Ohio Conservation Card) to serve as their license.
The cost of a lifetime fishing license varies based on the purchaser’s age:
Less than 18 years old: $430.56
18 years but less than 66 years: $599.04
66 years and older: $84.24
Multiyear Fishing Licenses for Ohio Residents
In addition to lifetime licenses, Ohio residents can also choose from three-year, five-year, and ten-year fishing licenses. These multiyear licenses allow residents to lock in rates and avoid transaction fees for the length of the license. Permits and stamps must be purchased annually, even with a multiyear license.
The cost of multiyear fishing licenses for Ohio residents in 2024 is as follows:
Resident 3-Year License: $72.11
Resident 5-Year License: $120.18
Resident 10-Year License: $240.36
Multiyear license customers may pay an additional fee for a hard plastic license (Ohio Conservation Card) if desired.
Annual Fishing Licenses
For those who fish less frequently, annual fishing licenses are available for both residents and non-residents. In Ohio, a fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age or older to fish in public waters, take frogs or turtles on public and private property, and fish in privately owned ponds, lakes, or reservoirs that are open to public fishing through an agreement or lease with the ODNR Division of Wildlife.
The cost of annual fishing licenses in Ohio for 2024 is as follows:
Resident 1-Year License: $25.00
Resident 1-Day License: $14.00
Nonresident 1-Year License: $50.96
Nonresident 1-Day License: $14.00
One-day fishing licenses may be applied as credit toward the purchase of an annual license for non-residents.
License Exemptions
In Ohio, a fishing license is not required for certain individuals:
Persons under 16 years of age
Persons fishing in privately owned ponds, lakes, or reservoirs to and from which fish do not migrate
Persons giving assistance to an angler who has been issued a free mobility impaired or blind fishing license, provided they are using only one line together
Persons fishing or taking frogs or turtles on land and water they or their parents own, except where the land is in or borders on state parks or state-owned lakes
Persons fishing or taking frogs or turtles on land and water where they or their parents are tenants on which they reside and from which they derive the majority of their income from agricultural production on that land (except state-owned lakes)
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces on active duty while on leave or furlough
While these individuals are exempt from needing a fishing license, they must still follow size and bag limits.
Purchasing Fishing Licenses in Ohio
Fishing licenses in Ohio can be purchased online through the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s website, the HuntFish OH mobile app, or at hundreds of participating agents throughout the state. If purchased online, the license will be emailed to the customer upon completion of the transaction. Licenses can be displayed on a mobile device and presented upon request.
For those who need assistance with purchasing a license, operator assistance is available by calling 1-866-703-1928 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. However, a $5.50 fee will be added to the cost of the license.
In 2024, Ohio residents can enjoy the convenience and cost-savings of lifetime and multiyear fishing licenses, while non-residents and occasional anglers can opt for annual or daily licenses. By purchasing a fishing license, anglers support conservation efforts and ensure the sustainability of Ohio’s fish populations for generations to come.