Do I Need a Fishing License in New York State in 2024?

As an avid angler in New York State, you may be wondering if you need a fishing license to enjoy the state’s abundant waterways in 2024. The answer is yes, with a few exceptions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of fishing licenses in New York, including who needs one, how much they cost, and where you can get them.

Who Needs a Fishing License in New York?

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), anyone 16 years of age or older who is fishing for freshwater fish species by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, or tip-ups needs a fishing license. This applies to both New York State residents and non-residents.

However, there are some exceptions to the fishing license requirement in New York:

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 (including lessees and members of their immediate families) when fishing on farm lands they are occupying and cultivating
Farm fish pond license holders (including members of their immediate families) fishing on waters covered by the license
Native Americans living and fishing on reservation land
Patients residing at a qualifying U.S. Veterans Administration hospital or facility in New York State

It’s important to note that while a fishing license is not required for saltwater fishing in New York, anglers must register with the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry.

Types and Fees of New York Fishing Licenses

New York offers a variety of fishing licenses to suit different needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the standard license costs for residents and non-residents:

License Type Resident Fee Non-Resident Fee
Annual $25 (ages 16-69), $5 (ages 70 ) $50
7-Day $12 $28
1-Day $5 $10

In addition to the standard licenses, New York also offers free or reduced-fee licenses for certain groups:

Free fishing licenses are available to residents who are legally blind, members of the NYS Organized Militia or U.S. Reserve Forces, and Native Americans living on reservations (when fishing off-reservation)
Reduced-fee licenses ($5) are available to residents aged 70 or older and resident veterans with 40% or more service-related disability

For those who plan to fish regularly, New York also offers lifetime fishing licenses. The cost varies depending on the purchaser’s age:

Age Cost
< 5 $380
5-11 $535
12 – 69 $765
70 $65

How to Get a New York Fishing License

There are three convenient ways to purchase a fishing license in New York:

Visit an official License Issuing Agent
Order over the phone
Order online through the DEC website

When purchasing a license, you’ll need to provide proof of residency if you’re a New York resident and qualify for a free or reduced-fee license. Once you have your license, you must keep it on your person while fishing and present it to any law enforcement officer or the owner, lessee, or person in control of the land or water where you’re fishing.

Free Fishing Days in New York

If you’re new to fishing or just want to try it out without committing to a license, New York offers several Free Fishing Days throughout the year:

February 17 & 18, 2024
June 29 & 30, 2024
September 28, 2024
November 11, 2024

On these designated days, anyone can fish in New York’s freshwaters without a fishing license. However, all other fishing regulations still apply.

In conclusion, while a fishing license is generally required for anyone 16 and older fishing in New York’s freshwaters, there are several exceptions and options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, understanding the fishing license requirements in New York will help you enjoy the state’s abundant waterways to the fullest in 2024 and beyond.