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

If you’re an avid angler looking to fish in the beautiful waters of Washington state in 2024, you’ll need to purchase a valid fishing license. Fortunately, there are several convenient options for buying your license, whether you prefer the ease of online purchasing, the personal touch of a phone call, or the face-to-face interaction at a local license dealer.

Online Purchasing

One of the most convenient ways to buy your Washington fishing license in 2024 is online through the state’s Department of Fish and Wildlife website. This option allows you to purchase your license 24/7 from the comfort of your own home or on the go using your mobile device. Simply visit the online licensing system, select the appropriate license type, and complete the transaction using your credit card. Once your payment is processed, you’ll receive a temporary license that you can use immediately while waiting for your permanent license to arrive in the mail, which typically takes up to 10 days.

Phone Purchases

If you prefer to speak with a real person when purchasing your 2024 Washington fishing license, you can call the Department of Fish and Wildlife at 360-902-2464. The friendly staff will guide you through the process, answer any questions you may have, and provide you with a temporary license number that you can use until your permanent license arrives in the mail.

Local License Dealers

For those who enjoy the personal interaction of visiting a local business, Washington has hundreds of license dealers located throughout the state where you can purchase your 2024 fishing license. These dealers include popular retailers like Walmart, Fred Meyer, and Ace Hardware, as well as local tackle shops and marine stores. To find the nearest license dealer, visit the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website and use the dealer locator tool.

When purchasing your license in person, be sure to bring your social security number, as federal and state law require everyone 15 and older to provide this information before purchasing a license, whether buying in person, online, or by phone.

Types of Washington Fishing Licenses

Washington offers a variety of fishing licenses to suit the needs of anglers of all ages and interests. The most common license types include:

Annual Freshwater Fishing License
Annual Saltwater Fishing License
Annual Combination Fishing License (freshwater and saltwater)
1-Day Fishing Licenses (freshwater and saltwater)
Youth Licenses (ages 15 and under)
Disability Licenses
Senior Licenses

In addition to the basic fishing license, anglers may also need to purchase endorsements or catch record cards depending on the species they plan to target and the location they will be fishing. For example, if you plan to fish for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut, or Puget Sound Dungeness crab, you’ll need to purchase a catch record card to track your harvest.

It’s important to note that everyone, including those younger than 15, must carry a catch record card when fishing for these species. All catch record cards must be returned to the Department of Fish and Wildlife by the appropriate deadline, even if you didn’t catch anything.

Fishing License Fees

The cost of a Washington fishing license in 2024 varies depending on whether you are a resident or non-resident of the state, as well as the type of license you purchase. Resident annual licenses start at around $40 for freshwater or saltwater fishing, while non-resident licenses can range from $70 to $100 or more.

Discounted fees are available for certain individuals, such as seniors, disabled persons, and youth. It’s always a good idea to check the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s website for the most up-to-date pricing information and any special offers or promotions that may be available.

By purchasing a valid fishing license in 2024, you’ll not only be able to enjoy the thrill of catching fish in Washington’s beautiful waterways, but you’ll also be supporting the state’s conservation efforts and ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this beloved pastime.