Fishing is an incredibly popular outdoor activity in Minnesota, offering plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. Whether you’re a novice angler or a seasoned pro, it’s important to understand the rules and regulations that govern fishing in Minnesota. One of the most important regulations is the requirement to purchase a fishing license. Here, we’ll discuss when you need a fishing license in Minnesota, and how to go about getting one.
Do I Need a Fishing License in Minnesota?
In most cases, yes, you need a fishing license in Minnesota. The only exceptions are for anglers under the age of 16, tribal members and individuals with a disability. Everyone else who wants to fish on public waters in Minnesota must purchase a fishing license. In addition, anglers must follow all other laws and regulations, such as bag and size limits, season dates and other restrictions.
What Age Do I Need a Fishing License?
In Minnesota, you need a fishing license if you are 16 years of age or older. If you are 15 or younger, you can fish without a license. However, you must still follow all other regulations and laws. Additionally, anglers 16 and older must carry their license with them whenever fishing on public waters.
How Do I Obtain a Fishing License?
Fishing licenses can be obtained in several ways. You can purchase a license online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, or in person at a local DNR office or sporting goods store. Additionally, many bait shops and other retail stores in Minnesota sell fishing licenses. Most licenses are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
What Types of Licenses Are Available?
The Minnesota DNR offers a variety of fishing licenses. Anglers can choose from annual fishing licenses, daily fishing licenses, 3-day fishing licenses and 7-day fishing licenses. In addition, there are special licenses available for anglers with disabilities, as well as group licenses for parties of 10 or more. Anglers should check with the Minnesota DNR to determine the type of license they need before buying.
How Much Does a Fishing License Cost?
The cost of a fishing license in Minnesota varies depending on the type of license you purchase. Annual licenses for residents cost $22.50 and annual licenses for non-residents cost $40. Daily and 3-day licenses cost $14 for residents and $30 for non-residents, while 7-day licenses cost $25 for residents and $50 for non-residents. Group licenses cost $11 per person for residents and $22 per person for non-residents.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
In addition to a valid fishing license, anglers must also obtain a valid trout stamp if they plan on fishing for trout. The cost of a trout stamp is $5 for residents and $10 for non-residents. Additionally, if you are fishing on a public body of water that requires a special permit, you must also obtain one. Most permits can be purchased at the same time you purchase your license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license in Minnesota?
In most cases, yes, you need a fishing license in Minnesota. The only exceptions are for anglers under the age of 16, tribal members and individuals with a disability.
What age do I need a fishing license?
In Minnesota, you need a fishing license if you are 16 years of age or older.
How do I obtain a fishing license?
Fishing licenses can be obtained online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, or in person at a local DNR office or sporting goods store.
What types of licenses are available?
The Minnesota DNR offers a variety of fishing licenses. Anglers can choose from annual fishing licenses, daily fishing licenses, 3-day fishing licenses and 7-day fishing licenses.
How much does a fishing license cost?
The cost of a fishing license in Minnesota varies depending on the type of license you purchase. Annual licenses for residents cost $22.50 and annual licenses for non-residents cost $40.
What else do I need to know?
In addition to a valid fishing license, anglers must also obtain a valid trout stamp if they plan on fishing for trout. Additionally, if you are fishing on a public body of water that requires a special permit, you must also obtain one.
Can I buy a fishing license online?
Yes, you can purchase a fishing license online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website.
Who is exempt from needing a fishing license?
Anglers under the age of 16, tribal members and individuals with a disability are exempt from needing a fishing license in Minnesota.
Do I need to carry my fishing license with me when I fish?
Anglers 16 and older must carry their license with them whenever fishing on public waters.
Do I need to buy a special permit to fish on public waters?
Most permits can be purchased at the same time you purchase your license. If you are fishing on a public body of water that requires a special permit, you must also obtain one.