Can I Fish in DC with a Maryland License in 2024?

As an avid angler, you may be wondering if you can use your Maryland fishing license to fish in the District of Columbia (DC) in 2024. The answer is both yes and no, depending on your specific situation. In this article, we’ll explore the intricacies of fishing license requirements in DC and Maryland, helping you navigate the rules and regulations to ensure a smooth and legal fishing experience.

Fishing License Requirements in DC

In the District of Columbia, any person aged 16 to 64 fishing in DC waters, including Rock Creek Park and all other fishable waters within the District, regardless of whether they are fishing from the Virginia shoreline or from National Park lands, is required by law to possess a valid DC Fishing License. The annual license costs $10 for DC residents and $13 for non-residents.

However, there are some exemptions to this rule. Persons under the age of 16 or 65 and older are exempt from the requirement to have a DC fishing license.

Fishing License Requirements in Maryland

In Maryland, anglers need to obtain separate licenses for freshwater and saltwater fishing. Every angler aged 16 or older must carry one of those licenses to fish legally in Maryland waters.

For freshwater fishing, Maryland offers the following licenses:

Resident Nontidal Sport Fishing License – $20.50
Resident 7-Day Nontidal Sport Fishing License – $7.50
Resident Trout Stamp – $5.00

For saltwater fishing, Maryland offers the following licenses:

Resident and Non-Resident Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport (annual) License – $15.00 for residents, $22.50 for non-residents
7-day Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport License – $6.00 for residents, $12.50 for non-residents

Individuals under the age of 16 are not required to obtain a license to go fishing recreationally in Maryland.

Can I Use My Maryland License to Fish in DC?

No, you cannot use your Maryland fishing license to fish in DC waters in 2024. DC requires all anglers aged 16 to 64 to possess a valid DC Fishing License, regardless of their state of residence.

However, if you are a Maryland resident and hold a valid Maryland fishing license, you can use that license to fish in certain waters that border Maryland and DC, such as the Potomac River.

Reciprocity Between Maryland and Other States

Maryland has reciprocity agreements with Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania:

A Virginia resident who holds a valid non-tidal fishing license can fish in the Potomac River opposite the shore of Virginia.
With a valid Virginia saltwater fishing license and a Maryland Saltwater Anglers Registration, anglers can fish in Maryland tidal waters regardless of their residency.
A West Virginia resident with a valid WV license can fish in the non-tidal Potomac River.
A Pennsylvania resident with a valid PA fishing license can fish within Maryland.

These reciprocity agreements allow anglers from these states to fish in certain shared waters without needing an additional license from Maryland.

Penalties for Fishing Without a License

In both DC and Maryland, fishing without a valid license can result in penalties. In DC, violators may face fines and possible suspension of fishing privileges. In Maryland, the department may suspend an individual’s fishing license or privilege if they are convicted of or pay a fine for violating certain fishing rules.

It’s important to note that individuals who are suspended for violating fishing rules in Maryland may also be suspended in other states under the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact.

Obtaining a Fishing License

In DC, fishing licenses can be purchased online through the District Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) website. In Maryland, licenses can be obtained through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, at a Licensing and Registration Service Center, or at a license agent (select tackle shop or outdoor outfitter).

When purchasing a license, anglers should have their personal information, such as name, date of birth, and address, ready. Licenses are typically valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, unless otherwise specified.

In conclusion, while you cannot use your Maryland fishing license to fish in DC waters in 2024, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy fishing in both states. By understanding the specific licensing requirements and reciprocity agreements, you can ensure that you are fishing legally and responsibly.