Does a 12 Year Old Need a Fishing License in Virginia in 2024?

As the summer of 2024 approaches, many families in Virginia are gearing up for a season of outdoor adventures, with fishing being a popular pastime for both children and adults alike. However, when it comes to fishing regulations, it’s crucial to understand the specific requirements for each age group. In Virginia, the laws regarding fishing licenses for minors can be a bit complex, so let’s dive into the details to ensure you and your young anglers are prepared for a fun and legal fishing experience.

Fishing License Requirements for Minors in Virginia

According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, the fishing license requirements for minors in Virginia are as follows:

Residents under 16 years of age do not need a fishing license or trout license.
Nonresident children under 16 are not required to have a freshwater fishing or trout license.
Nonresident persons under 12 years of age do not need a fishing license when accompanied by a person possessing a valid license to fish in Virginia.

This means that in 2024, a 12-year-old Virginia resident would not need a fishing license to enjoy the state’s waterways. However, if the 12-year-old is a nonresident, they would need to be accompanied by a licensed adult to fish without a license themselves.

Trout Fishing Regulations for Minors

It’s important to note that while a fishing license is not required for minors in Virginia, there are specific regulations for trout fishing. According to the Virginia DWR, a trout license is required for anyone 16 years of age and older who is fishing in designated stocked trout waters from October 1 through June 15. However, from June 16 through September 30, anglers can fish in stocked trout waters without a trout license.

For minors under 16, the trout fishing regulations are as follows:

Residents under 16 years of age do not need a trout license.
Nonresident children under 16 are not required to have a trout license.

This means that in 2024, a 12-year-old Virginia resident would not need a trout license to fish in designated stocked trout waters, regardless of the season. Similarly, a nonresident 12-year-old would not need a trout license when accompanied by a licensed adult.

Other Fishing Regulations for Minors

In addition to the fishing license and trout fishing requirements, there are a few other regulations that apply to minors fishing in Virginia:

Fishing in most waters within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests requires a National Forest Stamp for anglers 16 and older (with some exceptions).
Fishing in wild trout and most special regulation waters may require a signed landowner permit card, which can be obtained online.
Fishing on private property requires the landowner’s permission, except on designated stocked trout waters with public access signs.

As you can see, while a 12-year-old in Virginia does not need a fishing license or trout license in most cases, it’s still essential to be aware of the other regulations that may apply, such as the National Forest Stamp and landowner permission requirements.

Preparing for a Fishing Trip with a 12-Year-Old in Virginia

Now that you know the fishing license requirements for 12-year-olds in Virginia, it’s time to start planning your fishing adventure! Here are a few tips to help you and your young angler have a successful and enjoyable trip:

Choose a family-friendly fishing spot with easy access and plenty of fish.
Make sure you have all the necessary fishing gear, including rods, reels, tackle, and bait.
Pack snacks, drinks, and sun protection to keep everyone comfortable throughout the day.
Teach your child about fishing safety, such as wearing a life jacket and handling hooks carefully.
Have fun and create lasting memories together!

With the right preparation and a little bit of luck, your 12-year-old can enjoy a wonderful fishing experience in Virginia in 2024, without the need for a fishing license or trout license in most cases.