Does Indiana Still Offer a Lifetime Fishing License in 2024?

As an avid angler in Indiana, you may be wondering if the state still offers a lifetime fishing license in 2024. The answer is both yes and no. While the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) previously sold various types of lifetime licenses, including basic fishing, comprehensive fishing, and comprehensive hunting and fishing licenses, they have since discontinued this option, with one notable exception: the Senior Fish for Life License.

The Senior Fish for Life License: A Lifetime of Fishing in Indiana

If you are an Indiana resident who was born before April 1, 1943, you are exempt from needing a fishing license when fishing in Indiana waters. However, if you were born after this date and are at least 64 years old, you can purchase a Senior Fish for Life License for $23. This license is valid for the rest of the holder’s life and includes the trout/salmon stamp privilege.

The Importance of Updating Your Contact Information

If you are a current holder of a lifetime license, it is crucial that you update your mailing address in the Online License System. The Indiana DNR uses the lifetime license address database to communicate with license holders and select participants for wildlife surveys. These surveys play a vital role in establishing hunting seasons, bag limits, and properly managing Indiana’s wildlife.

To update your contact information, you can follow the steps outlined on the DNR website. This process involves clicking on “Reserved Hunt Registration,” selecting the option for “I have a Lifetime License,” and entering your lifetime license type, license number, and date of birth. If your address is incorrect, you can click on “Update Personal Information” to make the necessary corrections.

Alternative Fishing License Options in Indiana

While lifetime licenses are no longer available, Indiana offers several alternative fishing license options for both residents and non-residents in 2024:

– Annual Fishing License: $23 for Indiana residents, $60 for non-residents – One-day Fishing License (includes Trout/Salmon Stamp): $10 for residents, $15 for non-residents – Seven-day License: $35 for non-residents – Trout/Salmon Stamp Privilege: $11 for both residents and non-residents

Annual fishing license holders, excluding seniors, will need to purchase an $11 Trout/Salmon Stamp to fish for these species. The stamp privilege is included in the Senior Fish for Life License and other mentioned licenses.

Free Fishing Days in Indiana

In 2024, Indiana offers four free fishing days where anglers can fish in public waters without needing a license or stamp:

– Sunday, May 12 – Saturday-Sunday, June 1 & 2 – Saturday, September 28

However, anglers must still follow the season, bag, and other DNR policies during these free fishing days.

Purchasing a Fishing License in Indiana

Fishing licenses in Indiana can be purchased online, at a retailer, or through the mail. To be considered an Indiana resident, a person must have established a true fixed and permanent home and primary residence in Indiana for 60 consecutive days prior to purchasing a license or permit.

All annual licenses and stamp privileges in Indiana are valid from April 1 of the current year through March 31 of the following year. For example, an annual license purchased in 2024 would be valid from April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025.

Indiana is home to numerous youth fishing derbies at various state park locations. These events, along with free fishing days, can be found on the state’s fishing events page.