Can I Use My Phone as a Fishing License in New York in 2024?

Fishing is a popular pastime in New York, with over 7,500 lakes and ponds, 70,000 miles of rivers and streams, and hundreds of miles of coastline offering ample opportunities for anglers. However, before you can cast your line, you need to make sure you have a valid fishing license. In New York, most people 16 years of age and older are required to purchase a fishing license.

Getting a Fishing License in New York

There are three main ways to obtain a fishing license in New York:

Visit an official License Issuing Agent: Many sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and town halls serve as license issuing agents. You can find a location near you on the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website.
Order over the phone: You can call 1-866-933-2257 to purchase your license Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Order online: The most convenient option is to purchase your license online through the DEC’s official website or mobile app. You’ll need to provide proof of residency (for the resident fee) and a credit or debit card.

Once you’ve purchased your license, you’ll receive a confirmation number that serves as valid proof of your fishing license until your physical license arrives in the mail.

Types of Fishing Licenses and Fees

New York offers several types of fishing licenses to accommodate different needs and budgets:

Annual License: Valid for one full year (365 days) from the date of purchase or renewal. Costs $25 for residents aged 16-69, $5 for residents aged 70 , and $50 for non-residents.
7-Day License: Allows fishing for 7 consecutive days. Costs $12 for residents and $28 for non-residents.
1-Day License: Provides fishing privileges for a single day. Costs $5 for residents and $10 for non-residents.
Lifetime License: Available to residents only, allowing you to fish for life. Costs $460 for ages 0-69.

In addition to these standard licenses, New York offers free or reduced-fee licenses for certain individuals, such as legally blind residents, active military members, and Native Americans living on reservations.

Using Your Phone as a Fishing License

In New York, you can use your phone as valid proof of your fishing license in a few ways:

DEC’s Hunt Fish NY Mobile App: Download the official DEC mobile app to access your digital license.
Online Printable License: After purchasing your license online, you can print out the confirmation page and use it as proof until your physical license arrives.
12-Digit DEC ID Number: When purchasing your license, you’ll receive a 12-digit DEC ID number that you can use as proof of your license.

Keep in mind that while these digital options are convenient, you should still carry your physical license with you whenever possible, as some law enforcement officers may not recognize digital proof.

Fishing License Requirements and Exemptions

In New York, 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 using a club or hook
Freshwater baitfish for personal use

However, there are a few exceptions where a fishing license is not required:

Fishing on a licensed fishing preserve
Fishing during designated Free Fishing Days
Fishing at a free learn to fish clinic
Resident landowners primarily engaged in farming, fishing on their own lands
Farm fish pond license holders, fishing on waters covered by their license
Native Americans living and fishing on reservation land
Patients residing at certain U.S. Veterans Administration hospitals or facilities in New York

It’s important to note that if you plan to fish in border waters or for migratory marine species, additional licenses or registrations may be required.

Conclusion

In New York, having a fishing license is essential for most anglers 16 years and older. While you can’t use your phone as a permanent replacement for a physical license, digital options like the DEC’s mobile app, online printable licenses, and DEC ID numbers provide convenient ways to prove you have a valid license while you’re out fishing.

Remember to familiarize yourself with the different license types, fees, and exemptions to ensure you’re fishing legally and supporting the conservation efforts that keep New York’s waterways healthy and well-stocked.