Obtaining a Duplicate California Fishing License Made Easy

Losing your California fishing license can be a frustrating setback, especially when you’re eager to hit the water. However, obtaining a duplicate is straightforward. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, associated fees, and provide important considerations to ensure you’re back fishing legally and responsibly.

Understanding California Fishing License Types

Before replacing your license, it’s essential to identify the type you originally held. California offers several fishing license options, and knowing the correct type will help streamline the replacement process.

1. Annual Fishing License

Valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, this license allows fishing in both inland and ocean waters within California.

• Resident: $62.90
• Non-resident: $169.82

2. Short-Term Fishing Licenses

For anglers who only need a license for a short fishing trip, California offers several short-term options.

• One-day: $20.52
• Two-day: $31.58
• Ten-day (non-residents): $62.90

3. Lifetime Fishing License

This is a one-time purchase that provides an annual fishing license for life. The cost varies depending on the angler’s age, typically ranging from $679.75 to $1,112.00.

4. Additional Validations and Report Cards

Depending on your fishing activities, additional validations or report cards may be required. These are necessary for specific types of fishing, such as ocean fishing or targeting particular species.

• Ocean Enhancement Validation
• Second-Rod Validation
• Sturgeon Report Card

For more details on each, visit the official California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Fishing Licenses page.

Duplicate License Fees

The cost for obtaining a duplicate license in California depends on the type of license and any additional validations or report cards required. As of 2025, the fees are as follows:

• Duplicate Sport Fishing License: $14.04
• Ocean Enhancement and Second-Rod Validations: $3.81 each
• Sturgeon Report Card: $18.28

Note: Fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the current rates with the CDFW before proceeding with your replacement. For the most up-to-date information, visit the CDFW Licensing page.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Duplicate License

Obtaining a duplicate fishing license in California is a simple process. Follow these detailed steps to replace your lost or damaged fishing license without delay.

1. Gather Required Information

Before you begin the replacement process, ensure you have the following details ready:

• Your Full Name and Date of Birth: These will help verify your identity when requesting the duplicate.
• Original License Type: Know the type of fishing license you originally purchased (Annual, Short-Term, or Lifetime).
• Additional Validations or Report Cards: If you had additional validations like Ocean Enhancement, Second-Rod, or a Sturgeon Report Card, ensure you have this information available as well.

2. Purchase a Duplicate License

There are several ways to obtain a duplicate fishing license, each with its own benefits.

Online

The easiest and quickest way to get your duplicate license is online:

• Visit the official CDFW Online License Sales and Services website.
• Log in to your customer profile. If you don’t have one, you can create a new account by selecting the “Create an Account” option.
• Once logged in, navigate to the “Duplicate License” section and follow the prompts to purchase a replacement sport fishing license.
• You can also replace any additional validations or report cards, such as the Ocean Enhancement Validation or Sturgeon Report Card, during this process.

Pro Tip: Online orders are processed quickly, and you can download and print your duplicate license immediately after purchase.

In Person

If you prefer to handle the process in person:

• Visit any CDFW License Sales Office or an authorized license agent.
• To find the nearest location, use the CDFW License Agent Locator.
• Request a duplicate license and any additional validations or report cards.

Note: You will receive your duplicate license immediately when processed in person.

License Agents

Many authorized retailers, such as sporting goods stores and tackle shops, are also equipped to process duplicate license requests. They can issue your duplicate right at the point of sale.

3. Pay the Duplicate License Fee

Be prepared to pay the applicable fees when purchasing your duplicate license. Here are the accepted payment methods:

• Debit or Credit Cards: Visa or MasterCard are accepted online and in person.
• Checks or Money Orders: These are accepted at CDFW offices and some license agents.
• No Cash: CDFW offices do not accept cash payments.

For the most up-to-date fee details, refer to the CDFW Licensing Fees page.

4. Receive Your Duplicate License

Once you’ve completed the payment, you’ll receive your duplicate license in one of the following ways:

• Immediate (Online or In Person): If you purchase your duplicate online or in person, you’ll receive your license right away.
• By Mail: If you choose mail delivery, your duplicate license will be mailed to you. Allow up to 15 business days for processing and delivery.

Important Reminder: To avoid future complications, keep a digital or photocopy of your new license as a backup. Storing your license in a waterproof case or wallet can help protect it from damage during your fishing trips.

By following these simple steps, you can obtain your duplicate fishing license quickly, ensuring that you’re ready to hit the water legally and responsibly.

Responsible Angling and Regulations

While obtaining a duplicate fishing license is crucial, it’s equally important to understand that having a valid license is only one part of being a responsible angler in California. To ensure you’re fishing legally, sustainably, and ethically, familiarize yourself with the state’s fishing regulations. Adhering to these rules helps preserve the environment and maintain healthy fish populations.

Key Regulations to Follow:

• Size Limits:
  Each species of fish has a minimum and sometimes maximum size limit to ensure young fish have the opportunity to grow and reproduce. For example, the minimum size limit for a striped bass might differ from that for a largemouth bass.
  Always check the regulations for the species you are targeting. For details on size limits by species, visit the CDFW Fish Size Limits page.
• Bag Limits:
  The bag limit defines the maximum number of fish you can legally keep in one day. These limits help prevent overfishing and ensure sustainable fish populations. For instance, the bag limit for some species of trout may be 5 fish per day, while for others, like sturgeon, the limit may be different.
  You can find specific bag limits for each species in the California Fishing Guide.
• Seasonal Restrictions:
  Certain species of fish are only available for fishing during specific seasons to protect their spawning cycles. For example, some areas restrict salmon fishing from spring through late summer.
  To ensure you’re fishing during the legal season, consult the Seasonal Fishing Restrictions section of the CDFW website for detailed seasonal information on all species.

Free Fishing Days

California also offers Free Fishing Days, typically two days a year, when anglers can fish without a license. These days allow newcomers and veterans alike to enjoy fishing while promoting awareness of the state’s fishing opportunities.

• In 2025, the Free Fishing Days will be held on July 4th and September 7th.
• On these days, no fishing license is required, but other regulations like size and bag limits still apply.
• For updates on Free Fishing Days and other events, visit the CDFW Free Fishing Days page.

Fishing License Reminders and Resources

Staying on top of your fishing license renewals and regulatory updates is critical for legal compliance and responsible angling. The CDFW offers a convenient reminder service to ensure you never miss a license renewal deadline.

How to Stay Updated:

Opt-in for Reminders:
When purchasing your fishing license online, you can choose to receive reminders about license renewals and important regulation changes. You can also manually update your contact preferences through your CDFW account.

Explore Additional Resources:
For expert guidance on navigating the licensing process, understanding fishing regulations, and learning responsible angling practices, check out the following resources:

• CDFW Fishing Regulations Guide
• Teenfish’s Fishing Resources

Ready to Get Back on the Water?

Don’t let a lost or damaged fishing license stop you from enjoying California’s diverse waterways. Follow the steps above, and you’ll be well on your way to obtaining a duplicate license quickly and hassle-free. At teenfish.com, we’re committed to helping anglers like you make the most of your time on the water while promoting sustainable fishing practices for generations to come.

Explore our collection of fishing license guides, helpful tips, and resources at teenfish.com/fishing-licenses. Get ready to cast your line and make unforgettable memories!

For more information on fishing licenses and regulations in other states, check out our comprehensive guides:

• How to Get a Delaware Fishing License
• Kansas Lifetime Fishing Licenses
• Obtaining a Michigan Fishing License