How Much is a Lifetime Fishing License at Walmart in New York? Prices and Requirements Explained

If you’re an avid angler in New York, you may be wondering about the cost of a lifetime fishing license at Walmart. In this article, we’ll break down the prices and requirements for fishing licenses in New York, focusing specifically on the options available at Walmart stores.

Fishing License Prices at Walmart in New York

Walmart stores in New York offer a convenient way to purchase fishing licenses. Here are the current prices for fishing licenses at Walmart in New York, as of 2024:

Annual license for residents aged 16-69: $25
7-day license for non-residents: $28
1-day license for non-residents: $10

It’s important to note that Walmart does not offer lifetime fishing licenses. Lifetime licenses are only available through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and are reserved for residents only.

Lifetime Fishing Licenses in New York

While you can’t purchase a lifetime fishing license at Walmart, the New York State DEC does offer this option for residents. The current price for a lifetime fishing license in New York is $460 for ages 0-69 and $65 for ages 70 and older, as of 2024.

To be eligible for a lifetime fishing license in New York, you must be a resident of the state. The DEC defines a resident as someone who has maintained a permanent place of abode in New York for at least 30 days prior to purchasing the license.

Who Needs a Fishing License in New York?

In New York, anyone aged 16 and older must have a valid fishing license to fish in freshwater. This includes fishing by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, and tip-ups. Licenses are also required for fishing for frog species by spearing, catching with the hands, or using a club or hook.

There are a few exceptions to the fishing license requirement in New York:

Fishing on a licensed fishing preserve
Fishing during designated Free Fishing Days
Fishing at a free learn to fish clinic
Resident landowners primarily engaged in farming (including lessees and members of their immediate families) when fishing on farm lands they are occupying and cultivating
Farm fish pond license holders (including members of their immediate families) fishing on waters covered by the license
Native Americans living and fishing on reservation land
Patients residing at a qualifying U.S. Veterans Administration hospital or facility in New York State

If you plan to fish in marine or coastal waters, you’ll also need a marine fishing registration, which is separate from the freshwater fishing license.

Where to Purchase Fishing Licenses in New York

In addition to Walmart, there are several ways to purchase fishing licenses in New York:

Online through the New York State DEC website
By phone at 1-866-933-2257
From an official license issuing agent, such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and town and county clerks’ offices

When purchasing a fishing license, you’ll need to provide personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and address. You may also need to show proof of residency if you’re purchasing a resident license.

In conclusion, while Walmart stores in New York offer a convenient way to purchase fishing licenses, they do not sell lifetime licenses. For those interested in a lifetime license, you’ll need to purchase it directly from the New York State DEC. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the fishing license requirements and exceptions before heading out on the water.