In March 2020, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Missouri Conservation Commission announced they were temporarily waiving permit requirements for sport fishing and daily trout tags for Missouri residents and nonresidents whose fishing privileges were not otherwise suspended. This measure was intended to provide relief and encourage outdoor recreation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Temporary Waiver of Fishing Permits in 2020
The waiver of needing a permit or trout tag to fish in Missouri was in effect from Friday, March 27, 2020, through April 15, 2020. At the time, the MDC stated they would reassess the situation after that period to determine if the waiver should be extended.
Fishing Permit Requirements in 2024
As of June 2024, the temporary waiver of fishing permits and trout tags in Missouri has not been extended beyond the original timeframe in 2020. Anglers in Missouri are now required to possess valid fishing permits and trout tags, as per the state’s normal regulations.
The MDC website and other official sources do not indicate any current plans to reinstate the temporary waiver of fishing permit requirements. Residents and nonresidents wishing to fish in Missouri must obtain the appropriate permits and tags before doing so.