Can I Show My Fishing License on My Phone in New York State in 2024?

In the digital age we live in, many anglers are wondering if they can show their fishing license on their phone in New York State in 2024. The good news is that the answer is yes, with a few caveats.

Purchasing Your Fishing License on Your Phone

You can purchase your fishing license in New York State by calling the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) at 1-866-933-2257, visiting an official License Issuing Agent, or ordering online through the DEC’s website. If you purchase your license online or over the phone, you will receive a confirmation number that serves as proof of purchase until your actual license arrives in the mail.

Starting August 1, 2024, the DEC will allow hunters, anglers, and trappers to print their licenses at home instead of waiting 14 business days to receive them by mail. This change will apply to licenses purchased for the 2024-2025 license year and beyond.

Using the HuntFishNY Mobile App

Anglers, hunters, and trappers can also utilize the HuntFishNY mobile app to display an electronic copy of their license. This app allows you to renew, purchase, and store your licenses and permits on your smartphone or tablet.

However, it’s important to note that while you can use the HuntFishNY app to show proof of your license, back tags and carcass tags must still be mailed to you and may take 10 to 14 days to arrive.

Showing Your License to a Wildlife Officer

If a wildlife officer asks to see your fishing license, you can show them the confirmation number you received when you purchased the license, the license itself once it arrives in the mail, or the electronic version displayed through the HuntFishNY app.

It’s important to note that while many states will accept a photo of your license as proof, New York State may not, as wildlife officers may not have the capability to verify the authenticity of a photo.

Fishing License Requirements in New York State

In New York State, you need a fishing license if you are 16 years or older and fishing for freshwater fish species by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, and tip-ups, frog species by spearing, catching with the hands or by use of a club or hook, or freshwater baitfish for personal use.

There are several types of fishing licenses available in New York State, including annual, 7-day, and 1-day licenses for both residents and non-residents. You may also qualify for a free or reduced-fee license if you meet certain criteria, such as being a resident 70 years of age or older, a Native American living and fishing on reservation land, or a patient residing at a qualifying U.S. Veterans Administration hospital or facility in New York State.

Fishing License Reciprocity on Border Waters

If you plan to fish on border waters in New York State, it’s important to understand the reciprocity rules. For example, you cannot use your New York State fishing license on Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, the St. Lawrence River, or the Niagara River, as these waters border Ontario, Canada.

However, you can use your New York State fishing license on the Delaware River and West Branch Delaware River along the Pennsylvania border, as well as on Greenwood Lake and Indian Lake from a boat or ice only.

In conclusion, while the process of obtaining and displaying your fishing license in New York State may have changed in 2024, it’s still important to ensure that you have a valid license before heading out on the water. By understanding the new rules and utilizing the HuntFishNY mobile app, you can enjoy your fishing trip with peace of mind, knowing that you are in compliance with state regulations.