Fishing is a popular pastime in Washington state, with diverse opportunities from freshwater lakes to the Pacific coast. However, before you can cast your line, you need to make sure you have a valid fishing license. In Washington, everyone ages 15 and older is required to have a recreational fishing license, with some exceptions.
Purchasing a Washington State Fishing License
There are several ways to purchase your Washington state fishing license for 2024:
Online: You can buy your license 24/7 on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) website.
By Phone: Call the WDFW at 360-902-2464 to purchase your license over the phone.
License Dealers: Visit one of the hundreds of authorized license dealers around the state, such as Walmart, Fred Meyer, Ace Hardware, tackle shops, and marine stores.
When buying your license online or by phone, it may take up to 10 days to receive it in the mail. If your WILD ID has an email address associated with it, you will receive a temporary license to use during this period.
Types of Washington State Fishing Licenses
Washington offers several types of annual fishing licenses depending on your residency status and the type of fishing you plan to do:
Resident Annual Freshwater, Saltwater, and Shellfish/Seaweed Licenses: For Washington residents who want to fish in freshwater, saltwater, and harvest shellfish and seaweed.
Non-Resident Annual Freshwater, Saltwater, and Shellfish/Seaweed Licenses: For non-residents who want to fish in freshwater, saltwater, and harvest shellfish and seaweed.
Combination Licenses: Packages that combine multiple licenses at a discounted price, such as the Fish Washington package which includes annual freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, shellfish and seaweed licenses, and endorsements.
Depending on the species you plan to target and where you fish, you may also need additional endorsements or catch record cards.
Discounted Fishing Licenses
Washington offers discounted fishing license fees for certain individuals:
Seniors: Residents 70 years of age and older can purchase a reduced-fee license.
Youth: Residents under 15 years of age can fish for free.
Disabled Individuals: Residents with a disability can purchase a reduced-fee license.
Military Personnel: Active duty military personnel and their dependents stationed in Washington can purchase a reduced-fee license.
Remember, even if you’re not required to have a license, you still need to follow all other fishing regulations, such as catch record card requirements.
Fishing License Endorsements and Catch Record Cards
In addition to your fishing license, you may need endorsements or catch record cards depending on your target species and fishing location:
Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement: Required for fishing for salmon or steelhead in the Columbia River and its tributaries.
Two-Pole Endorsement: Allows you to fish with two poles in designated waters.
Puget Sound Dungeness Crab Endorsement: Required for crabbing in Puget Sound.
Catch Record Cards: Needed for fishing for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut, and Puget Sound Dungeness crab. You must have a catch record card in your possession while fishing for these species.
Make sure to check the current regulations and purchase any necessary endorsements or catch record cards before heading out to fish.
Fishing Regulations and Conservation
Washington has specific fishing laws and regulations in place to protect fish populations and ensure sustainable fishing opportunities:
Bag Limits: Restrictions on the number and size of fish you can keep.
Seasons: Designated times when certain species can be legally fished.
Gear Restrictions: Rules about the types of fishing gear and methods that are allowed.
As an angler, it’s important to familiarize yourself with and follow these regulations to help conserve Washington’s aquatic resources for future generations.
Fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature in Washington state. By purchasing a valid fishing license and following all regulations, you can help ensure that fishing remains a sustainable and enjoyable pastime for years to come.