Do I Need a Fishing License for a Michigan Charter Boat in 2024?

If you’re planning a fishing trip in Michigan in 2024, you might be wondering if you need a fishing license, especially if you’re booking a charter boat. The short answer is yes, you do need a fishing license in Michigan, even when fishing on a charter boat. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of Michigan’s fishing license requirements and what you need to know before your next fishing adventure.

Michigan Fishing License Requirements

According to Michigan law, anyone 17 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license to fish in Michigan waters. This applies to both residents and non-residents, and includes fishing on charter boats.

There are a few exceptions to the fishing license requirement in Michigan:
Children under the age of 17 do not need a fishing license
Adults assisting a child may help set up fishing gear, bait the hook, and cast without a license, but must have their own license for all other fishing activities
Michigan residents on active military duty do not need a license, provided they can prove their status
Resident veterans who are unemployable due to a disability can fish without a license
Non-resident military personnel stationed in Michigan can get a license at resident prices
Registered blind residents are eligible for senior prices on their license

Buying a Michigan Fishing License

There are several ways to purchase a Michigan fishing license in 2024:
Online: Both residents and non-residents can apply for a fishing license online and download a PDF form to carry on their mobile device or print out.
In-person: Fishing licenses are sold at various locations across the state, including bait and tackle stores, sporting goods stores, and even some Walmart locations.

When purchasing your license, you’ll need to provide proof of residency if you’re a Michigan resident, and a form of identification.

Fishing License Costs in Michigan

The cost of a Michigan fishing license varies depending on whether you’re a resident or non-resident, and whether you’re purchasing a 24-hour or annual license:
24-hour license: $10 for both residents and non-residents
Annual license: $26 for residents, $76 for non-residents
Senior resident annual license: $11

If you’re a Michigan resident, an annual license provides a significant discount compared to purchasing multiple 24-hour licenses throughout the year.

Fishing on a Charter Boat in Michigan

When booking a fishing charter in Michigan, it’s important to keep in mind that each individual angler over the age of 17 must have their own valid fishing license. The charter boat captain is not responsible for providing licenses for their customers.

Some charter boat captains may offer fishing licenses for purchase on board their vessels, but it’s best to check with them in advance and purchase your license ahead of time to avoid any delays or issues on the day of your trip.

In addition to a fishing license, there are a few other things to keep in mind when fishing on a charter boat in Michigan:
Wear soft-soled shoes to protect the boat’s deck
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for protection from the sun
Pack a small cooler with snacks and drinks, but avoid glass bottles
Bring a larger cooler to transport your catch home
Be respectful of the captain’s rules regarding alcohol consumption and drug use

By following these guidelines and ensuring that everyone in your party has a valid fishing license, you can enjoy a safe and memorable fishing trip on a Michigan charter boat in 2024.