As a state with abundant fishing opportunities, Michigan offers special provisions for active-duty military members when it comes to obtaining fishing licenses. In 2024, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced that active-duty U.S. military members can receive free fishing licenses, provided they meet certain criteria.
Eligibility Requirements for Free Fishing Licenses
To qualify for a free fishing license in Michigan, active-duty military members must meet the following requirements:
At the time of enlistment, the individual must have been a resident of Michigan and maintained that residency status for the purposes of obtaining a driver’s license or voting.
The individual must present proof of active-duty military status, such as a military ID, leave papers, duty papers, military orders, or other verifying evidence.
The free license is available for a resident all-species fishing license or any hunting license that does not require a lottery.
These free licenses are available at DNR Customer Service Centers and license retail outlets across the state. Military members receiving a free fishing or hunting license must present the license along with proof of military status if requested by a conservation officer.
Fishing License Fees for Non-Resident Active-Duty Military
While active-duty Michigan residents can obtain free fishing licenses, non-resident active-duty military personnel officially stationed in Michigan may purchase all hunting and fishing licenses at Michigan resident rates. This provision has been in place for some time, allowing non-resident military members to enjoy the same benefits as Michigan residents when it comes to obtaining licenses.
Fishing License Requirements for Minors and Assisting Adults
It’s important to note that while active-duty military members can obtain free fishing licenses, the general fishing license requirements still apply to minors and assisting adults:
Children aged 16 and under do not need a fishing license to fish in Michigan.
Adults assisting a child may help set up the fishing gear, bait the hook, and cast without a fishing license. For all other fishing activities, an adult must have their own license.
These exceptions ensure that young anglers can enjoy fishing with the guidance of adults, while still maintaining the overall licensing structure for the state.
Obtaining a Michigan Fishing License
For those who do not qualify for free or discounted fishing licenses, obtaining a Michigan fishing license is a straightforward process. Licenses can be purchased in the following ways:
Online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses
Through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish App
At a License Agent (find the list at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenseAgents)
At a DNR Customer Service Center
When purchasing a license, individuals must provide proof of residency and identification. Licenses can be downloaded as a PDF form and carried on a mobile device or printed out for use while fishing.
Fishing License Costs and Expiration Dates
The cost of a Michigan fishing license varies depending on the type of license and the individual’s residency status. In 2024, the following license costs apply:
Type of License 24 Hour License Annual License
Resident $10 $26
Non-resident $10 $76
Senior resident $10 $11
Annual licenses are valid from March 31 of the current year until March 31 of the following year. 24-hour licenses are valid for a specific 24-hour period, which can be chosen by the purchaser.
Michigan does not currently offer lifetime fishing licenses, despite proposals in the state legislature to bring back this option.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to making fishing accessible to all, including active-duty military members. By offering free fishing licenses to eligible active-duty personnel and providing discounted rates for non-resident military members, Michigan demonstrates its appreciation for the service and sacrifice of those who defend our country.