How to Get a Free Fishing License in Minnesota in 2024

In Minnesota, fishing licenses are required for most anglers aged 16 to 89, with some notable exceptions. Residents who are blind, wards of the commissioner of Human Services, residents of state institutions, foreign exchange students attending school in Minnesota, recipients of worker’s compensation for total and permanent disability, and disabled persons can obtain a free annual fishing license.

Eligibility Requirements for Free Fishing Licenses in Minnesota

To qualify for a free fishing license in Minnesota, you must fall into one of the following categories:

Blind: Minnesota residents who are blind can obtain a free fishing license.
Ward of the commissioner of Human Services: Individuals who are wards of the commissioner of Human Services are eligible for a free license.
Resident of a state institution: Residents of state institutions in Minnesota can get a free license.
Foreign exchange student: Foreign exchange students attending school in Minnesota can fish for free.
Worker’s compensation recipient: People receiving worker’s compensation for total and permanent disability qualify for a free license.
Disabled person: Disabled Minnesota residents can obtain a free annual fishing license.

It’s important to note that these free licenses are only available to Minnesota residents. Non-residents, even those who fall into these categories, are not eligible for free licenses.

How to Obtain a Free Fishing License in Minnesota

To get your free fishing license, you’ll need to provide proof of eligibility. This may include documentation such as a certificate of blindness, proof of ward status, or documentation of disability.

You can obtain your free license in several ways:

Online: Visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website and apply for your free license online.
By phone: Call the Minnesota DNR at 1-888-MN-LICEN (665-4236) to apply for your free license over the phone.
In person: Visit a DNR office or authorized license agent, such as a sporting goods store or bait shop, to apply for your free license in person.

Once you have your free license, you’ll need to carry it with you whenever you go fishing in Minnesota.

Other Fishing License Options in Minnesota

If you don’t qualify for a free fishing license, there are several other options available:

24-hour license: For $12, you can purchase a license that’s valid for one day of fishing.
72-hour license: A 72-hour license costs $14 and allows you to fish for three consecutive days.
Annual license: An annual fishing license costs $25 for individuals and $40 for a married couple.
Combination license: For $41 (individual) or $57 (married couple), you can purchase a license that includes both fishing and small game hunting privileges.
Lifetime license: Minnesota offers lifetime fishing licenses for residents, with prices ranging from $417 for children under age 3 to $726 for adults aged 50-64.

Regardless of which type of license you choose, your fishing license is valid from March 1 to the last day of February of the following year.

With its abundant lakes, rivers, and streams, Minnesota offers excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages and skill levels. By obtaining the appropriate license, you can enjoy the sport while supporting conservation efforts in the state.