Do Disabled People Need a Fishing License in California in 2024?

Fishing is a popular pastime enjoyed by many Californians, but for those with disabilities, the process of obtaining a fishing license can be daunting. In California, the Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) offers free or reduced-fee fishing licenses to individuals with certain disabilities, making it easier for them to enjoy the sport they love.

Eligibility for Free or Reduced-Fee Fishing Licenses in California

According to Section 7151(a)(3) of the California Fish and Game Code, a free fishing license is available for any person who is developmentally disabled. The term “developmental disability” refers to a severe and chronic disability that is attributable to a mental or physical impairment and begins before an individual reaches adulthood (18 years of age). These disabilities include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, and disabling conditions closely related to intellectual disability or requiring similar treatment.

In addition to those with developmental disabilities, California also offers free fishing licenses to low-income Native Americans and individuals who are mobility impaired or blind. Reduced-fee licenses are available for honorably discharged veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces with a service-connected disability rating of 50% or greater, as well as recovering service members undergoing medical treatment, recuperation, or therapy.

Application Process for Free or Reduced-Fee Fishing Licenses

To apply for a free fishing license in California, individuals with developmental disabilities must submit a completed application along with a certification letter from a licensed physician or the director of a State Regional Center. The certification letter must be on the physician’s or director’s letterhead, contain their signature, and state that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria.

For those with mobility impairments or blindness, a letter from a licensed physician certifying the applicant’s disability or a copy of the previous year’s free fishing license is required. Native Americans who are residents of California and financially unable to pay for a fishing license must provide certification of tribal enrollment, a copy of their Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood, or a copy of an official tribal membership or identification card with membership number.

Disabled veterans and recovering service members must submit a letter from the Veteran’s Administration documenting their honorable discharge and service-connected disability rating of 50% or greater, or a letter from their commanding officer or military medical doctor verifying their eligibility as a recovering service member.

All applications are reviewed and eligibility is verified before the license is issued. It can take up to 15 business days for the review and processing of an application.

Renewing Free or Reduced-Fee Fishing Licenses

After the first free or reduced-fee fishing license has been issued, individuals who qualify based on disability may renew their license from any CDFW license agent, CDFW license sales office, or online. However, Native Americans who have been issued a free low-income sport fishing license must resubmit a new application each year to renew their sport fishing license.

It’s important to note that any license fraudulently obtained will be revoked, and any person committing fraud to obtain this license will be prosecuted.

Conclusion

In conclusion, California’s free and reduced-fee fishing license program makes it easier for individuals with disabilities to enjoy the sport of fishing. By providing these licenses to those who qualify, the CDFW is ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in this popular outdoor activity.