Fishing is a popular pastime in Michigan, with the state offering a diverse array of fishing opportunities across its numerous lakes, rivers, and streams. Whether you’re a resident or nonresident, a casual angler or a dedicated sportsman, understanding the cost and requirements of Michigan fishing licenses is crucial to ensure you’re fishing legally and responsibly.
Types of Michigan Fishing Licenses and Fees
Michigan offers several types of fishing licenses, each with its own set of fees and requirements. The main categories include:
Daily (24-hour) Fishing License: This license is valid for 24 hours from the time of purchase and can be purchased as needed. The cost is $10 for both residents and nonresidents.
Annual Fishing License: This license is valid from March 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025. The cost varies based on residency status:
Resident Annual License: $26
Nonresident Annual License: $76
Senior Resident Annual License (65 or legally blind): $11
Youth Annual License (voluntary for residents and nonresidents under 17): $2
Combination Licenses: Michigan also offers combination licenses that include both hunting and fishing privileges. The cost for these licenses is:
Resident Hunt/Fish Combo: $76
Nonresident Hunt/Fish Combo: $266
Senior Resident Hunt/Fish Combo (65 ): $43
It’s important to note that a $1 surcharge is included in the resident annual, nonresident annual, senior annual fishing licenses, and combo hunt and fish licenses. This surcharge is used to educate the public on the benefits of hunting, fishing, and trapping in Michigan, and the impact of these activities on the conservation, preservation, and management of the state’s natural resources.
Who Needs a Michigan Fishing License?
In Michigan, anyone 17 years of age or older must purchase a fishing license to fish in public waters, target fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and reptiles. Minors under 17 can fish without a license but must still follow all fishing rules and regulations.
If an adult is actively assisting a minor who does not have a license, the adult must have a valid fishing license. However, adults without a license can still help land a fish with a net or their hands, unhook a fish, set up the fishing rod, bait the hook, fix tangles or snags, and cast the line for young anglers (as long as the young angler is an active participant).
There are a few exceptions to the fishing license requirements, such as developmentally disabled individuals or residents of a home for the aged who obtain a permit from the Department of Natural Resources to fish without a license when accompanied by licensed adults. Additionally, residents and nonresidents can fish without a license during Michigan’s free fishing weekends, which occur twice a year.
Where to Purchase a Michigan Fishing License
Michigan fishing licenses can be purchased from several locations, including:
Online: Licenses can be purchased on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses.
Michigan DNR Hunt Fish App: Licenses are available for purchase through the official Michigan DNR mobile app.
License Agents: Licenses can be purchased from authorized license agents across the state. A list of these agents is available on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.
DNR Customer Service Centers: Licenses can be purchased at DNR Customer Service Centers located throughout Michigan.
When purchasing a license, you’ll need to provide proof of residency (for residents) and a valid form of identification.
Using Your Michigan Fishing License
Once you have your Michigan fishing license, it’s important to understand how to use it properly. You must carry your license with you while fishing and present it upon request to a conservation officer, tribal officer, or any other law enforcement officer.
It’s also crucial to familiarize yourself with Michigan’s fishing regulations, which can vary depending on the species, location, and season. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources publishes an annual Fishing Guide that outlines the general fishing regulations, as well as any exceptions or special regulations by county.
Remember, your Michigan fishing license is only valid within the state’s water borders. If you plan to fish in the Great Lakes or other shared waters, you’ll need to check the regulations of the neighboring state or country to ensure you’re fishing legally.
The revenue generated from Michigan fishing licenses is used by the Department of Natural Resources to support various conservation efforts, including fish hatcheries, habitat restoration, and enforcement of fishing regulations. By purchasing a license, you’re contributing to the sustainable management of Michigan’s aquatic resources for current and future generations of anglers to enjoy.