Are Fishing Licenses Free for Military in the US in 2024?

In many states across the United States, active duty military personnel and veterans are eligible for free or heavily discounted fishing and hunting licenses. This is a way for states to show appreciation for the service and sacrifices of those who serve or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Free Fishing Licenses for Active Duty Military

Several states offer free fishing licenses to active duty military members who are residents of that state. For example:

Texas offers free fishing licenses to Texas residents who are on full-time active military service in the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, Reserves, National Guard or Texas State Guard.
New York offers free fishing licenses to New York residents who are active service members of the New York State Organized Militia, U.S. Reserve Forces, or certain members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

To qualify for a free fishing license in these states, active duty military members typically need to provide a military ID card and proof of state residency. Some states may also require additional documentation, such as leave orders showing the military member is stationed outside the state but home on leave for 30 days or less.

Discounted Fishing Licenses for Veterans

Many states also offer discounted fishing licenses to disabled veterans and retired military members. For example:

Florida offers a reduced-fee $20 annual Military Gold Sportsman’s License to active duty and retired members of the U.S. Armed Forces, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve, Florida National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard or U.S. Coast Guard Reserve that are stationed in Florida or claim Florida as their primary residence.
Virginia offers resident hunting and fishing licenses to active-duty military personnel and their immediate family stationed and living in Virginia.

To qualify for discounted licenses, veterans typically need to provide a military ID card and proof of state residency. Some states may have additional requirements or offer different discounts based on the veteran’s disability status or years of service.

Hunting Licenses for Military

In addition to fishing licenses, many states also offer free or discounted hunting licenses to active duty military and veterans. At least 14 states waive hunting license fees for military personnel, including seven that waive them only for active duty personnel.

The specific requirements and benefits vary by state, but in general, active duty military members and veterans can often obtain hunting licenses at the resident rate or for free, depending on their state of residence and military status.

It’s important for active duty military members and veterans to check the specific requirements and benefits in their state of residence to determine if they qualify for free or discounted fishing and hunting licenses. Many states provide this information on their wildlife or fish and game department websites.