How Much Does an Ohio Fishing License Cost in 2024?

Fishing is a popular pastime in Ohio, with the state offering a diverse array of waterways teeming with various fish species. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to try your hand at the sport, having a valid fishing license is a must. In Ohio, the cost of a fishing license varies depending on your residency status and the type of license you choose. In this article, we’ll explore the different fishing license options and their associated costs in Ohio for the year 2024.

Resident Fishing Licenses in Ohio

If you’re an Ohio resident, you have several options when it comes to purchasing a fishing license. The most common choice is the 1-Year Fishing License, which costs $25.00 and is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. This license allows you to fish in Ohio’s public waters and is required for anyone 16 years of age or older.

For senior residents, there is a discounted 1-Year Fishing License available for $10.00. To qualify for this discount, you must be an Ohio resident and born on or after January 1, 1938.

In addition to the annual licenses, Ohio also offers multiyear fishing licenses for residents. These licenses allow you to lock in the current rates and avoid transaction fees for the length of the license. The multiyear options include:

• 3-Year License: $72.11
• 5-Year License: $120.18
• 10-Year License: $240.36

Residents can also purchase a Lifetime Fishing License for $599.04. This license is valid for the lifetime of the holder, regardless of their future residency status. Lifetime license holders will receive a plastic card (Ohio Conservation Card) to serve as their license.

Non-Resident Fishing Licenses in Ohio

If you’re visiting Ohio and don’t reside in the state, you’ll need to purchase a non-resident fishing license. The options for non-residents include:

• 1-Day License: $14.00
• 3-Day License: $25.00
• 1-Year Upgrade (from a 1-Day License): $37.44
• 1-Year License: $50.96

The 1-Day and 3-Day licenses are ideal for short fishing trips, while the 1-Year Upgrade and 1-Year License are suitable for longer stays or more frequent fishing.

It’s important to note that as of the 2022-23 fishing season, non-resident anglers no longer need a separate permit to fish Lake Erie at certain times of the year. Your Ohio fishing license will cover you for the Great Lake whenever you visit.

Where to Purchase an Ohio Fishing License

Obtaining an Ohio fishing license is a straightforward process. You can purchase your license through any of the following methods:

• Online: Both residents and non-residents can apply for their licenses online through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.
• In person: Fishing licenses are available at authorized license sales agents throughout Ohio.
• By phone: Operator assistance for license sales is available by calling 1-866-703-1928 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. A $5.50 fee will be added to the cost of the license.

If you purchase your license online, it will be emailed to you upon completion of the transaction. You don’t need to print the license, as you can display it on your mobile device when asked to present it.

License Exemptions and Requirements

While a fishing license is generally required for anyone 16 years of age or older, there are some exemptions in Ohio:

• Persons under 16 years of age are not required to purchase a fishing license.
• Persons fishing in privately owned ponds, lakes, or reservoirs to and from which fish do not migrate are not required to have a license to take fish.
• Persons giving assistance to an angler who has been issued the free mobility impaired or blind fishing license, provided the two persons together are using only one line.
• Persons fishing, or taking frogs or turtles, on land and water which they or their parents own, except where the land is in or borders on state parks or state-owned lakes.
• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces on active duty while on leave or furlough.

Even if you qualify for one of these exemptions, it’s important to remember that size and bag limits still apply.

Regardless of your residency status or the type of license you choose, having a valid fishing license is essential for enjoying Ohio’s abundant fishing opportunities in 2024 and beyond. By understanding the different license options and their associated costs, you can make an informed decision and ensure that you’re fishing legally and responsibly in the Buckeye State.