The sea, the sun, the breeze—nothing beats spending a fun-filled day fishing on your boat. You have your gear and a cooler filled with snacks; what more do you need?
Well, if you don’t have your fishing license, you could be asking for trouble. While you don’t have to display it on your boat, your fishing license is an important document that you must have at all times when you’re out fishing.
However, for argument’s sake, let’s say you’re caught fishing without a license? What then? In this post, you’ll find the answers to all your fishing license queries.
Let’s jump right into it.
What Happens If I Get Caught Fishing Without a License?
Sometimes, you may just get off with a warning. Then, you’ll have to vacate the area. You can’t return until you have a valid fishing permit.
However, most times, you’ll have to pay a fine. You’ll most likely receive a ticket that you’ll have to sign for. If you’re a first-time offender, you’ll pay about $50, as well as the value of a 24-hour fishing license.
The amount is liable to increase if you’re found in possession of any fish. In extreme cases, the fine can reach up to $500.
Whatever the amount is, you’ll have to pay it within 30 days. If not, you’ll get fined for failing to comply with the first offense. That could mean paying even more money, and, in some states, even jail time.
So, what happens if you’re caught fishing without a license for the second time? The fine will be much larger. You’ll also lose all rights to any fish you’ve caught.
For multiple offenders, the consequences can get pretty severe. The property can be seized and confiscated by the wildlife officer. Plus, there’ll be a hefty fine that can reach up to $25,000. Additionally, to further drive the point home, a one-year jail sentence will be added to the mix.
Where Can I Go Fishing Without a License?
Some states have free fishing days. Others offer whole weekends where you can enjoy fishing without a license. This gives newbies the chance to try out fishing without having to bother with any paperwork.
Bear in mind that, with or without a license, anglers must adhere to all other fishing regulations. Each state has its own set of rules when it comes to fishing. Yet, there are several that apply nationwide, no matter what state you’re in.
These include:
- Releasing fish that doesn’t meet the minimum length criteria
- Not exceeding the daily bag limit (20 fish in total; no more than 10 of any one species)
- Catching or disturbing any threatened or endangered fish, turtles, or marine mammals
Who Can Go Fishing Without a License?
Certain criteria dictate who can go fishing without a license. Here are a few examples:
- Anyone below 16 years old (17 in some states)
- Anyone older than 65 years old (providing they have a valid ID)
- Veterans and military personnel fishing in their home county only
- Anyone using fishing as part of therapy (providing they have valid proof)
- Anyone with a disability
- Anyone fishing in a family homestead
Why are Fishing Licenses Important?
The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act of 1997 came about as a way to lower the effect fishing has on decreasing fish numbers. It states that you must get a fishing license before heading out to the water. Not only that, but you must keep it with you at all times while you’re on the boat.
It’s one way of making sure that everyone has a fair chance of catching fish. It works to try and preserve fish numbers for current and future generations.
Alternatively, the money used to buy various fishing licenses helps sustain fisheries. Wildlife departments across the nation use the money to help pay for their maintenance, repairs, and other expenses.
Are There Different Types of Fishing Licenses?
Fishing licenses come in an assortment of types to meet each location they’re covering. If you have a permit to fish in the ocean, you can’t go fishing in a river, for example.
Having the wrong license won’t get you off the hook with wildlife authorities. It’s also a problem if you have the right type of license, but it’s expired. You’ll still get fined and asked to leave the property.
When it comes to expiration dates, you can choose the one that best suits your angler needs. Some last for an entire year down to those that last for merely 24 hours.
Here’s a quick rundown of each type of fishing license:
- Saltwater: valid only in saltwater locations
- Freshwater: valid only in freshwater locations
- Recreational: for anglers who fish for fun or competition
- Commercial: annual license for fishermen who harvest and sell fish or shellfish
- Combined: allows you to fish on all types of waters
How Can I Get a Fishing License?
Buying a fishing license is much simpler than you might think. They’re available in wildlife departments, online retailers, and sports stores. Even Walmart and other retail chains sell them.
Not only that, but many fishing sites sell licenses on-site. In fact, they’ll ask you to show it before you head out to the water.
All you need to buy your fishing license is a photo ID and proof of residency. This can either be a driver’s license or utility bill.
Final Words
We hope our guide on fishing without a license has covered all the basics. You now know the consequences of not carrying a valid permit with you when you go fishing.
There are some exceptions to the rule. Yet, if you’re not in any of the groups who can go fishing without a license, spare yourself the trouble and buy yourself a license before you start fishing.
Besides, buying a license has never been easier or more convenient. More importantly, it’ll give you the peace of mind you need to enjoy your outdoor adventure without fear of repercussion.