What Type of California Fishing License Do I Need in 2024?

As an avid angler in California, it’s crucial to understand the different types of fishing licenses available and which one best suits your needs. In 2024, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) offers a variety of options to cater to both residents and non-residents, as well as anglers with specific requirements.

Annual Sport Fishing License

The most common type of fishing license in California is the Annual Sport Fishing License. This license is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase and allows the holder to fish in both inland and ocean waters. The cost of an Annual Sport Fishing License varies depending on the angler’s residency status:

Resident Annual Sport Fishing License: $61.82
Non-Resident Annual Sport Fishing License: $166.89

To be considered a resident, an individual must have resided continuously in California for at least six months immediately prior to purchasing the license, or be on active military duty or enrolled in the Job Corps.

Short-Term Sport Fishing Licenses

For those who don’t fish as frequently, California offers Short-Term Sport Fishing Licenses. These licenses are valid for a specific number of days and are available for both residents and non-residents:

One-Day Sport Fishing License: $20.26 (resident and non-resident)
Two-Day Sport Fishing License: $31.06 (resident and non-resident)
Ten-Day Sport Fishing License: $61.82 (non-resident only)

Short-Term Sport Fishing Licenses are a great option for visitors or occasional anglers who want to enjoy fishing without committing to a full year.

Lifetime Sport Fishing License

For the dedicated angler, California offers a Lifetime Sport Fishing License. This license is available to California residents only and provides the holder with an annual fishing license for the rest of their life. The cost of a Lifetime Sport Fishing License varies based on the angler’s age:

Ages 0-9: $679.75
Ages 10-39: $1,112.00
Ages 40-61: $1,001.75
Ages 62 and above: $679.75

Lifetime Sport Fishing Licenses can only be purchased at a CDFW license sales office.

Additional Requirements: Report Cards and Validations

In addition to the basic fishing license, anglers may need to purchase additional report cards or validations depending on the species they are targeting and the area they are fishing in:

Ocean Enhancement Validation: $7.05, required to fish in ocean waters south of Point Arguello
Second Rod Validation: $19.44, allows fishing with two rods or lines in inland waters
Recreational Crab Trap Validation: $2.98, required for taking crabs with crab traps
Abalone Report Card: $29.73, required for taking abalone from ocean waters north of the center of the mouth of San Francisco Bay (fishery currently closed)
Sturgeon Fishing Report Card: $10.80, required for taking sturgeon
North Coast Salmon Report Card: required for fishing for salmon in the Klamath, Trinity, and Smith Rivers

It’s important to note that anglers under the age of 16 do not need a fishing license but may still require report cards for certain species.

Where to Purchase Fishing Licenses in California

Fishing licenses in California can be purchased through several channels:

Online through the CDFW website
At CDFW license sales offices
From authorized license agents, such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some retail outlets

When purchasing a license online, anglers must be at least 18 years of age and have a Visa or MasterCard for payment.

In conclusion, understanding the different types of fishing licenses available in California is essential for any angler looking to enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities in 2024. Whether you prefer an Annual Sport Fishing License, a Short-Term License, or a Lifetime License, the CDFW offers options to suit every fishing enthusiast’s needs. Remember to always carry your license with you while fishing and be aware of any additional report card or validation requirements for your specific fishing activities.