How much is a fishing license in Idaho?
Fishing in Idaho is a thrilling adventure, with the state’s stunning landscapes and abundant fish populations drawing anglers from all over. Before you cast your line, however, understanding the ins and outs of Idaho’s fishing license requirements is essential. This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a fishing license in Idaho, including updated fees, regulations, special categories, and how to purchase your license. Whether you’re a local angler or a visiting fisherman, we’ve got you covered with all the practical advice you’ll need for 2025.
1. Understanding Idaho’s Fishing License Requirements
Before heading out to fish in Idaho’s pristine waters, it’s crucial to obtain the right fishing license. Idaho divides licenses based on residency, age, and special categories, making it important to understand which one applies to you.
1.1 Residency Status
To qualify for a resident fishing license in Idaho, you must have lived in the state for at least six months prior to your application. Non-residents are required to pay higher fees for their fishing licenses, and there are no exceptions to this rule unless explicitly stated. Non-residents must apply for a non-resident fishing license, and pricing differs significantly from that of residents. It’s important to note that simply owning property in Idaho does not automatically qualify you as a resident—full-time, continuous residency for at least six months is required. If you’re new to the state or planning a short visit, you’ll need to purchase a non-resident license.
1.2 Age-Based Categories
Fishing licenses in Idaho are also structured by age. Here’s how the regulations break down:
- Residents under 14 years old do not need a license to fish. This encourages young anglers to enjoy fishing without any barriers.
- Anyone aged 14 or older is required to obtain a fishing license. Whether you’re a resident or a non-resident, this rule applies to anyone fishing in Idaho’s waters once they reach 14 years of age. This ensures that fishing is regulated to maintain sustainable fish populations.
2. Resident Fishing Licenses
Idaho residents enjoy lower fees compared to non-residents, and there are specific age-based options to suit anglers of all kinds. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the available resident fishing license categories for 2025:
2.1 Standard Adult Resident Fishing License
- Cost: $30.50
- Eligibility: Idaho residents aged 18 and older
This is the basic fishing license for all adult residents, granting full privileges for recreational fishing. This license gives you access to all public waters in Idaho for the entire calendar year.
2.2 Price Lock Option for Long-Term License Holders
- Cost: $25.75
For residents who have continuously held a fishing license since 2017, the Price Lock program offers a reduced fee. This option rewards long-term license holders by ensuring that their fishing license price remains the same as it was in the year they initially purchased it, offering a savings of $4.75 for long-term residents.
2.3 Junior Resident Fishing License
- Cost: $16.00 (ages 14-17)
- Price Lock Option: $13.75
The junior fishing license is available for residents aged 14 to 17. This discounted license ensures that younger anglers can get started on their fishing journey at a reduced cost. If a junior resident has continuously held a license since 2017, they can benefit from the Price Lock program.
2.4 Senior Resident Combination License
- Cost: $49.00 (ages 65 and older)
The senior combination license provides both hunting and fishing privileges for senior residents. It is designed for residents aged 65 and older, offering great value for seniors who enjoy both activities in Idaho’s outdoors. It covers all public lands for both hunting and fishing, making it a comprehensive option for active seniors.
3. Non-Resident Fishing Licenses
Non-residents are charged higher fees, but they still have options to suit their trip duration and fishing needs. Here’s a breakdown of non-resident fishing licenses:
3.1 Annual Non-Resident Fishing License
- Cost: $108.00
Ideal for non-residents who plan on fishing in Idaho for an extended period, this license provides year-long access to the state’s waters, allowing anglers to enjoy fishing throughout the entire year.
3.2 Daily Non-Resident License
- Cost: $22.75
This daily license is perfect for short fishing trips. If you’re in Idaho for a brief visit, this license allows you to fish for one day. You can also add consecutive days for just $7.00 per day, which gives you flexibility if your trip lasts a few days.
3.3 Junior Non-Resident Fishing License
- Cost: $23.75 (ages 14-17)
A discounted option for young anglers visiting Idaho, this license is available for non-resident anglers aged 14 to 17. It encourages youth participation in fishing while offering a more affordable price for visitors.
4. Special Categories: Fishing Licenses for Military, Veterans, and Disabled Anglers
Idaho offers several specialized fishing licenses for military personnel, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the state’s fishing opportunities.
4.1 Military Furlough Fishing License
- Cost: $20.50
- Price Lock Option: $17.50
This discounted license is available to military personnel on furlough. It allows service members to fish in Idaho’s waters during their time off. The Price Lock option further reduces the cost for long-term license holders.
4.2 Disabled American Veterans Combination License
- Cost: $31.75
This combination license offers both fishing and hunting privileges for disabled veterans, helping them access both activities at a discounted rate. It is designed to support veterans who wish to continue enjoying Idaho’s outdoor activities.
4.3 Disabled Veterans Discounted License
- Cost: $5.75
This discounted license is available to disabled veterans who have a disability rating of 40% or higher. The reduced cost is a gesture of appreciation for their service, allowing veterans to fish without the financial burden of a full-priced license.
5. Two-Pole Permit
For anglers who enjoy fishing with multiple poles at once, Idaho offers a two-pole permit, which can be added to your fishing license.
- Cost: $15.00
The two-pole permit allows anglers to fish with two poles simultaneously, which increases your chances of catching more fish during your outing. This permit is especially useful in areas with abundant fish and allows you to maximize your fishing experience.
This structure gives a comprehensive and detailed breakdown of each category and the corresponding fees, ensuring that readers have a clear understanding of what they need. The content is specific and actionable, making it easy for anglers to determine exactly what type of fishing license applies to their situation. For any further inquiries or updates, you can always refer to the Idaho Fish and Game official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
6. How to Purchase Your Idaho Fishing License
There are several ways to conveniently purchase your Idaho fishing license, so you can spend more time enjoying the outdoors. The Idaho Fish and Game Department offers multiple methods to ensure the process is as easy as possible.
6.1 Online
To purchase your fishing license online, visit the official Idaho Fish and Game website. The website provides a user-friendly interface where you can select your fishing license type, input your details, and pay securely using your preferred payment method. This option is available 24/7, making it the most convenient way to obtain your license from the comfort of your home.
6.2 By Phone
If you prefer to purchase your license by phone, simply call 1-800-554-8685. A representative will assist you in selecting the correct license type and process the payment over the phone. This option is available for those who may need assistance or do not have internet access.
6.3 In-Person
You can also purchase your fishing license in person at any authorized vendor or at an Idaho Fish and Game office across the state. The benefit of purchasing in person is that you can immediately receive your physical fishing license, which may be useful if you plan on heading out to fish right away. Find authorized vendors and office locations using the Idaho Fish and Game website or by calling their customer service.
7. Key Considerations When Purchasing a Fishing License
When purchasing your Idaho fishing license, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you are complying with the state’s regulations and getting the most value from your purchase.
7.1 Residency Requirements
To qualify for a resident fishing license, you must have lived in Idaho for at least six consecutive months prior to applying. The six-month rule is strictly enforced, so if you’ve only recently moved to Idaho or are visiting, you will need to purchase a non-resident license instead. Proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill, may be required to verify your eligibility for a resident license.
7.2 Age Restrictions
Idaho’s fishing license regulations specify that children under 14 years old do not need a fishing license. However, residents and non-residents aged 14 and older are required to obtain a fishing license. If you are a parent or guardian of a child under 14, this exemption makes it easier to bring younger anglers along without the need for a license. For anglers 14 and older, it is essential to purchase the appropriate license before fishing.
7.3 Price Lock Program
Idaho offers a Price Lock program for residents who have continuously held a fishing license since 2017. If you are eligible for this program, you can enjoy a reduced rate on your fishing license. To qualify, you must have held a valid fishing license in every year since 2017. This program provides a great opportunity for long-term residents to save money on their annual fishing licenses.
8. Free Fishing Days in Idaho
Idaho offers Free Fishing Days, during which you can fish without needing a fishing license. These special days allow both residents and non-residents to enjoy fishing without any financial barrier.
8.1 When Are Free Fishing Days?
Idaho’s Free Fishing Day is an annual event held on the second Saturday of June. In 2025, this date falls on June 14. On this day, all anglers—residents and non-residents alike—can fish Idaho’s waters without a license. However, all other fishing rules and regulations, including creel limits, opening dates, and tackle restrictions, remain in effect.
During these days, you will not need to purchase a fishing license to fish in Idaho’s public waters. However, all other regulations, such as catch limits and species-specific restrictions, still apply. It’s an excellent opportunity for first-timers, tourists, or anyone looking to try fishing without committing to purchasing a license.
9. Fishing Regulations and Conservation Efforts
Fishing in Idaho is subject to various regulations designed to protect fish populations and ensure the sustainability of the state’s aquatic ecosystems. Your fishing license fee goes towards conservation efforts to maintain healthy habitats for future generations of anglers.
9.1 Catch Limits
Many fish species in Idaho have daily or seasonal catch limits to help maintain sustainable populations. For example, the number of trout you can catch in a day may be restricted, and the size of the fish may be regulated. Catch limits vary based on species, waterbody, and time of year, so be sure to check the regulations before heading out. These regulations are in place to prevent overfishing and protect vulnerable species.
9.2 Species-Specific Regulations
Some bodies of water in Idaho may have species-specific regulations, such as certain areas being designated for catch-and-release only, or restrictions on fishing particular species at certain times of year. For instance, some rivers may have restrictions on fishing for certain salmon species during spawning seasons. Before you head out, ensure you are familiar with the specific regulations for the water where you plan to fish. You can access these detailed regulations on the Idaho Fish and Game website.
9.3 Fishing Seasons
Certain species of fish are only available for catch during specific seasons. The fishing seasons for different species vary depending on waterbody conditions, fish migration patterns, and conservation goals. It’s important to stay updated on fishing seasons for your target species to avoid violating regulations. You can find the latest seasonal fishing updates on the Idaho Fish and Game website, where you can also download annual fishing guides or subscribe to email notifications for season openings and changes.
By following Idaho’s fishing regulations, you not only ensure that you are legally fishing, but also contribute to preserving the state’s abundant natural resources for future anglers.
10. Conclusion
Obtaining the right fishing license in Idaho is essential for ensuring a legal and enjoyable fishing experience. Whether you’re a resident, non-resident, or qualify for a special category like military or disabled status, there’s a license option designed to meet your needs. By following the guidelines in this article, you can confidently navigate Idaho’s fishing license system, support conservation efforts, and enjoy the state’s rich fishing opportunities.
Ready to get your Idaho fishing license? Use this guide to make the process easy and start planning your next fishing adventure today!
For more information, visit the official Idaho Fish and Game website to learn about updated regulations, special offers, and additional resources for anglers in 2025.
