As the sun rises over the serene waters of Washington state, many seniors eagerly await the start of another day of fishing. However, before casting their lines, they must consider an important question: Do they need a fishing license in 2024?
Fishing License Requirements in Washington State
In Washington state, both residents and non-residents aged 15 and older are required to possess a valid fishing license when fishing or harvesting shellfish. This rule applies to anglers of all ages, with a few notable exceptions:
- Children under the age of 15 do not need a fishing license.
- Anglers fishing for common carp, crawfish, bullfrogs, or collecting relic shells are exempt from the licensing requirement.
It’s important to note that even if you don’t need a license, you may still be required to have a Catch Record Card and/or endorsement, depending on the species you’re targeting and the location of your fishing activity.
Senior Fishing License Discounts in Washington State
While most anglers aged 15 and older must purchase a fishing license, Washington state offers discounted licenses for certain senior residents. According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, senior residents aged 70 and older can purchase an annual freshwater or saltwater fishing license for just $7.50. This discounted rate also applies to the annual combination fishing/shellfish license, which costs $19.05 for senior residents aged 70 and older.
To qualify for the senior resident discount, anglers must meet the following criteria:
- Be a permanent resident of Washington state for at least 90 days prior to purchasing the license.
- Possess a valid Washington driver’s license or identification card.
Non-resident seniors, on the other hand, do not qualify for the discounted senior rates and must purchase licenses at the standard non-resident prices.
Other Discounted Fishing Licenses in Washington State
In addition to the senior resident discount, Washington state offers reduced-rate fishing licenses for certain individuals with disabilities:
- Resident veterans aged 65 and older with a service-connected disability, as well as resident veterans of any age with a 30% or more service-connected disability.
- Residents who permanently use a wheelchair.
- Residents who are blind or visually impaired.
- Residents with a developmental disability as defined in RCW 71A.10.020, with documentation certified by a physician.
Non-resident disabled veterans who qualify under the first two criteria above are also eligible for discounted combination fishing licenses at the same cost charged to non-disabled Washington residents.
Purchasing a Fishing License in Washington State
Anglers in Washington state have several options for purchasing their fishing licenses in 2024:
- Online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website.
- At authorized license dealers throughout the state.
- By phone at 1-866-246-9453.
It’s important to note that all Washington fishing licenses are valid from April 1 to March 31 of the following year. This means that anglers must renew their licenses annually to continue fishing legally in the state.
Free Fishing Days in Washington State
While most anglers must possess a valid fishing license to fish in Washington state, the state does offer a few opportunities for free fishing each year. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife designates several “Free Fishing Days” throughout the year, typically around major holidays.
During these designated free fishing days, anglers of all ages can fish without a license, although they must still follow all other fishing regulations and requirements, such as catch record cards and endorsements.
In 2024, the Free Fishing Days in Washington state are scheduled for:
- Saturday, June 8, 2024
- Sunday, June 9, 2024
- Saturday, November 23, 2024
These free fishing days provide a great opportunity for seniors and other anglers to enjoy the sport without the added expense of a license, while still supporting the conservation efforts of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife through their regular license purchases.