If you plan to fish in Lake Washington or any other waters in the state of Washington in 2024, it’s important to understand the licensing requirements. Residents and non-residents alike must have a valid fishing license to fish or shellfish in Washington waters. This applies to everyone age 15 and older, with a few exceptions.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Washington?
According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), you must have a fishing license if you are 15 years of age or older and plan to fish in Washington waters. This includes both freshwater and saltwater areas, as well as when harvesting shellfish and seaweed.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. You do not need a fishing license if you are fishing for the following species:
Common carp
Crawfish
Bullfrogs
Collecting relic shells
Additionally, youth anglers who are 14 years old and younger do not need a fishing license. However, they may still need to obtain a catch record card for certain species.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Washington
Washington offers several types of fishing licenses to accommodate different needs and preferences. The main categories include:
Combination License: Allows fishing in both freshwater and saltwater, as well as harvesting shellfish and seaweed.
Freshwater License: Permits fishing in freshwater areas only.
Saltwater License: Allows fishing in saltwater areas only.
Shellfish/Seaweed License: Enables harvesting various shellfish species and seaweed.
Short-Term Licenses: Available as 1-3 day options for both residents and non-residents.
The cost of a fishing license varies depending on the type of license, your residency status, and your age. For example, in 2024, the annual combination license costs $29.50 for Washington residents aged 16-69, while non-residents pay $84.50.
There are also discounted licenses available for certain groups, such as seniors, disabled individuals, and disabled veterans.
Where to Buy a Washington Fishing License
You can purchase a fishing license in Washington through several convenient methods:
Online: Visit the WDFW’s online licensing system to buy your license electronically.
Phone: Call the WDFW at 360-902-2464 to purchase your license over the phone.
License Dealers: Visit one of the many license dealers located throughout the state.
When buying your license online or by phone, keep in mind that it may take up to 10 days to receive your physical license in the mail. During this time, you will receive a temporary license that you can use until your permanent one arrives.
It’s important to note that federal and state law require everyone 15 and older to provide their social security number when purchasing a fishing license, regardless of the method used.
Additional Requirements and Endorsements
In addition to a fishing license, there are other requirements and endorsements you may need depending on the species you plan to target and the area you intend to fish:
Catch Record Cards: Required for fishing certain species, such as salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut, and Puget Sound Dungeness crab. Everyone, including those younger than 15, must carry a catch record card when fishing for these species.
Endorsements: Additional permits that can be purchased to enhance your fishing opportunities, such as the Two-Pole Endorsement or the Puget Sound Crab Endorsement.
It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and requirements for the area you plan to fish in Lake Washington or any other waters in Washington state.
Fishing is a popular pastime in Washington, with the state offering diverse opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater anglers. By understanding the licensing requirements and obtaining the necessary permits, you can enjoy a safe and legal fishing experience in Lake Washington and other waters throughout the state in 2024.