Do You Need a Fishing License to Fish on Your Own Property in Washington State?

In Washington state, the laws surrounding fishing licenses and private property can be a bit confusing. Many people wonder if they need a fishing license to fish on their own land. The answer is not as straightforward as you might think.

Fish and Wildlife Ownership

According to RCW 77.12.010, fish and wildlife in Washington state are considered the property of the state, not private individuals. This means that even if you own land, the fish and wildlife on your property still belong to the public. As a result, you generally need a valid fishing license to fish on your own land.

There are a few exceptions to this rule. If you are fishing for certain species, such as common carp, crawfish, or bullfrogs, you do not need a license. Additionally, if you are fishing on private property that is enrolled in the WDFW’s Private Lands Fish and Wildlife Program, you may be able to fish without a license.

Fishing License Requirements

In Washington state, everyone age 15 and older needs a fishing license. There are several types of licenses available, including annual licenses, short-term licenses, and endorsements for specific species or activities.

The cost of a fishing license varies depending on your age, residency status, and the type of license you purchase. For example, an annual freshwater fishing license costs $29.50 for residents and $84.50 for non-residents. Short-term licenses, such as a one-day combination license, cost $11.35 for residents and $20.15 for non-residents.

If you are fishing for certain species, such as salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut, or Puget Sound Dungeness crab, you will also need a catch record card. These cards are used to track the harvest of these species and must be returned to the WDFW by the appropriate deadline, even if you did not catch anything.

Purchasing a Fishing License

There are several ways to purchase a fishing license in Washington state:

• Online through the WDFW’s licensing system
• By phone at 360-902-2464
• At one of the hundreds of license dealers around the state

When purchasing a license online or by phone, it may take up to 10 days to receive your license in the mail. If your WILD ID has an email address associated with it, you will be emailed a temporary license to use during this period.

Federal and state law require everyone 15 and older to provide their social security number before purchasing a license, whether buying in person, online, or by phone.

Penalties for Fishing Without a License

If you are caught fishing without a valid license in Washington state, you may face penalties. These can include fines and the possibility of having your fishing privileges suspended.

It’s important to note that nothing in any contract should be construed as transferring ownership of fish and wildlife from the public to the private sector. Every person hunting or fishing on private lands under contract must have valid licenses, tags, and permits in their possession.

In conclusion, while you may own private property in Washington state, you generally need a valid fishing license to fish on your own land. There are a few exceptions, but in most cases, you must have a license to fish legally. By purchasing a license and following the state’s fishing regulations, you can enjoy the many fishing opportunities that Washington has to offer while helping to protect the state’s valuable fish and wildlife resources.