Washington State Fishing Licenses: Do Senior Citizens Need One in 2024?

Fishing is a popular pastime in Washington state, attracting anglers of all ages to its diverse waterways. However, when it comes to obtaining a fishing license, the rules can vary depending on factors such as age, residency status, and the type of fishing being pursued. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the specific requirements for senior citizens fishing in Washington state in 2024.

Who Needs a Fishing License in Washington State?

According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), residents and non-residents alike must have a license to fish or shellfish in Washington waters. Everyone age 15 and older needs a fishing license. However, you do not need a license if you are fishing for common carp, crawfish, bullfrogs, or collecting relic shells.

If you’re fishing for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut, or Puget Sound Dungeness crab, your license will come with a catch record card to track your harvest. Everyone, including those younger than 15, must carry a catch record card when fishing.

Senior Citizen Fishing License Requirements in Washington State

In Washington state, senior citizens aged 70 and older are eligible for discounted fishing licenses. According to the WDFW, a resident senior (aged 70 ) can purchase an Annual Freshwater license for $7.50, an Annual Saltwater license for $8.05, or an Annual Combo Fishing/Shellfish license for $19.05.

For non-resident seniors, the cost of a fishing license is the same as for non-resident adults. For example, a non-resident senior would pay $84.50 for an Annual Freshwater license, $59.75 for an Annual Saltwater license, or $124.65 for an Annual Combo Fishing/Shellfish license.

It’s important to note that even if you are exempt from needing a fishing license due to your age, you may still need to purchase certain endorsements or catch record cards depending on the type of fishing you plan to do.

Buying a Fishing License in Washington State

There are several ways to purchase a fishing license in Washington state in 2024:

Online: Visit the WDFW’s online licensing system.
By phone: Contact the WDFW at 360-902-2464.
In person: Visit one of the hundreds of license dealers around the state.

When buying online or by phone, it may take up to 10 days to receive your license in the mail. If your WILD ID has an email address associated with it, you will be emailed a temporary license to use for that 10-day period.

Federal and state law require everyone 15 and older to provide their social security number before purchasing a license, whether buying in person, online, or by phone.

Additional Considerations for Senior Citizen Anglers

In addition to the standard fishing license requirements, there are a few other things to keep in mind for senior citizen anglers in Washington state:

Catch Record Cards: You must have a catch record card in your possession when fishing for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut, and Puget Sound Dungeness crab.
Endorsements: Endorsements may be purchased along with your fishing license to enhance your fishing opportunities. For example, the Two-Pole Endorsement costs $6.00 for seniors.
Puget Sound Crab Endorsement: If you plan to fish for Dungeness crab in Puget Sound, you’ll need to purchase a Puget Sound Crab Endorsement for $8.75.

Fishing is a wonderful way for senior citizens to enjoy the great outdoors and connect with nature. By understanding the specific requirements for senior citizen fishing licenses in Washington state in 2024, anglers can ensure they are properly licensed and prepared to make the most of their fishing adventures.