Where Can I Buy a Washington State Fishing License in 2024?

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 ensure you have a valid fishing license. In Washington, everyone aged 15 and older is required to have a fishing license, with a few exceptions.

Purchasing a Fishing License in Washington

There are several convenient ways to purchase your Washington fishing license in 2024:

Online: Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) website to buy your license online 24/7.
By Phone: Call the WDFW at 360-902-2464 to purchase your license over the phone.
In Person: Visit one of the hundreds of license dealers around the state, including Walmart, Fred Meyer, Ace Hardware, tackle shops, and marine stores.

When buying your license online or by phone, keep in mind that it may take up to 10 days to receive your physical license in the mail. However, if your WILD ID has an email address associated with it, you will receive a temporary license to use during this period.

Types of Fishing Licenses in Washington

Washington offers several types of annual fishing licenses depending on your residency status and the type of fishing you plan to do:

Resident Licenses: Available to individuals who have maintained a permanent place of abode in Washington for at least 90 days immediately before applying for a license.
Non-Resident Licenses: For individuals who do not meet the residency requirements.
Combination Licenses: Packages that include multiple licenses and endorsements at a discounted price, such as the Fish Washington package and the Get Outdoors package.

In addition to the basic fishing license, you may need endorsements or catch record cards depending on the species you plan to target and the location of your fishing trip.

Discounted Fishing Licenses in Washington

Washington offers discounted fishing licenses to certain individuals, including:

Seniors (70 years of age and older)
Disabled individuals
Youth (under 15 years of age)
Qualified veterans

To qualify for a discounted license, you may need to provide proof of eligibility, such as a driver’s license, military ID, or disability documentation.

Fishing License Endorsements and Catch Record Cards

Depending on your fishing plans, you may need additional endorsements or catch record cards:

Catch Record Cards: Required when fishing for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut, and Puget Sound Dungeness crab. Everyone, including those under 15, must carry a catch record card when fishing for these species.
Two-Pole Endorsement: Allows anglers to use two fishing poles in designated waters.
Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement: Required for anglers fishing for salmon or steelhead in the Columbia River and its tributaries.

Remember to return your catch record cards to the WDFW by the appropriate deadline, even if you didn’t catch anything.

Fishing License Fees in Washington

The cost of a fishing license in Washington varies depending on your residency status, age, and the type of license you purchase. You can find a complete list of fishing license fees on the WDFW website.

In addition to your fishing license, you may need to purchase a Discover Pass if you plan to access state recreation lands and water access sites managed by Washington State Parks, WDFW, and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.

By following the fishing license requirements and regulations in Washington, you can enjoy a safe and responsible fishing experience in 2024 and beyond. Happy fishing!