How Much Does a Fishing License Cost in New York for 2024?

If you’re planning to go fishing in New York State in 2024, it’s important to understand the cost and requirements for obtaining a fishing license. In this article, we’ll dive into the different types of fishing licenses available, their associated fees, and any exemptions or special considerations.

Types of Fishing Licenses in New York

New York offers several types of fishing licenses to cater to the needs of both residents and non-residents. Here’s a breakdown of the available options:

**Resident Annual Licenses:** – Fishing (ages 16-69): $25 – Fishing (ages 70 ): $5 – 7-day (ages 16 ): $12 – 1-day (ages 16 ): $5 Non-Resident Annual Licenses:
Fishing (ages 16 ): $50
7-day (ages 16 ): $28
1-day (ages 16 ): $10
Lifetime Fishing Licenses (available to NY residents only):
Lifetime Fishing (ages 0-69): $460
Lifetime Fishing (ages 70 ): $65

License Requirements and Exemptions

In New York, anyone 16 years of age or older must possess a valid fishing license while fishing for freshwater fish species, frogs, or freshwater baitfish. However, there are a few exemptions to this rule:

Persons under 16 years of age
NYS-resident owners, lessees, and members of their immediate families occupying and cultivating farmlands, when fishing on their own lands
Persons holding farm fish pond licenses and members of their immediate families, when fishing on waters covered by their licenses
Resident patients at Dept. of Mental Health institutions and Dept. of Health rehabilitation hospitals, and inmates at Division of Youth rehabilitation centers
When fishing on licensed fishing preserves

Additionally, New York offers free fishing licenses to certain individuals, such as residents who are legally blind, active service members of the NYS Organized Militia or U.S. Reserve Forces, and Native Americans who are members of the Shinnecock and Poospatuck tribes or the Six Nations residing on reservations in New York State.

Free Fishing Days in New York

In 2024, New York will host several Free Fishing Days, during which anyone can fish the freshwaters of New York State without a license. All other fishing regulations remain in effect during these days. The 2024 Free Fishing Days are:

June 29–30, 2024
September 28, 2024
November 11, 2024
February 15–16, 2025

These free fishing days provide an excellent opportunity for anglers to introduce friends and family to the sport of fishing without the need for a license.

Purchasing a Fishing License in New York

Obtaining a fishing license in New York is a straightforward process. You can purchase your license through one of the following methods:

Visit an official License Issuing Agent
Order over the phone
Order online through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website

Once you have your license, it’s important to keep it with you while fishing and present it to any police officer, peace officer, or the owner, lessee, or other person in control of the lands or waters where you are fishing, if requested.

In conclusion, understanding the cost and requirements for a fishing license in New York is crucial for anglers looking to enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities in 2024. By familiarizing yourself with the different license types, exemptions, and purchasing methods, you can ensure a smooth and legal fishing experience.