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Thinking about dropping a line in Idaho’s beautiful rivers and lakes? Before you head out, you’ll need to get the right fishing license. Navigating the rules and costs can feel tricky, but this guide breaks down everything you need to know for 2025 in a simple, clear way. We’ll cover costs for residents and visitors, special permits, and how to get your license without any fuss.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Idaho?
In Idaho, the rule is straightforward: anyone 14 years of age or older needs a valid fishing license to fish in public waters.
However, there are a couple of key details for anglers under 14:
- Resident kids under 14 can fish for free and even have their own daily catch limit.
- Non-resident kids under 14 can also fish without a license, but they must be with a licensed adult, and their catch counts toward that adult’s limit. If they want their own limit, they’ll need to buy a junior non-resident license.
Idaho Resident Fishing License Costs 2025
If you’ve lived in Idaho for at least six months, you qualify for resident pricing. Idaho also has a “Price Lock” program that gives a discount to anglers who have bought a license every year since 2017.
Here’s a quick look at the main resident license fees for 2025:
| License Type | Standard Cost | Price Lock Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Annual Fishing (18+) | $30.50 | $25.75 |
| Junior Annual Fishing (14–17) | $16.00 | $13.75 |
| Senior Combo (65+, Hunt & Fish) | $13.75 | $11.75 |
| Daily Fishing Permit | $13.50 | $11.50 |
Idaho Non-Resident Fishing License Costs 2025
Visiting the Gem State for a fishing trip? Here are the license costs for non-residents. Keep in mind you’ll also pay a small Access/Depredation fee with your first license purchase of the year.
| License Type | Standard Cost |
|---|---|
| Adult Annual Fishing | $108.00 |
| Junior Annual Fishing (14–17) | $23.75 |
| Daily Fishing Permit (First Day) | $22.75 |
| Each Extra Day | $7.00 |
Special Permits You Might Need
For certain types of fishing, a standard license isn’t enough. You may need to add one of these permits, even if you’re under 14.
- Two-Pole Permit: This lets you fish with two rods at once to increase your chances. The resident fee is $15.00.
- Salmon/Steelhead Permit: If you plan to target salmon or steelhead, this permit is required. The resident fee is $15.25.
How to Buy Your Idaho Fishing License
Getting your license is easy, and you have a few options to choose from. For a general overview of the process, you can check out our guide on how to get a fishing license in the USA.
- Online: The fastest way is to visit the official GoOutdoorsIdaho.com website. You can buy your license 24/7 and print a temporary one right away.
- By Phone: Call the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) at 1-800-554-8685. A representative can help you out, though a small processing fee applies.
- In-Person: You can stop by any IDFG regional office or an authorized vendor, like a local sporting goods store. Many major retailers, including Walmart, also sell licenses, which you can learn more about in our guide to getting a license at Walmart.
Mark Your Calendar: Idaho’s Free Fishing Day
Don’t miss Idaho’s Free Fishing Day on Saturday, June 14, 2025! On this day, anyone—resident or not—can fish without a license in any public water across the state. All other rules, like catch limits, still apply, but it’s the perfect chance to introduce a friend or family member to fishing. For more state-specific details, check out our dedicated Idaho fishing license guide.
A Quick Word on Fishing Rules
Your license fees help fund conservation, so it’s important to follow the rules to keep fish populations healthy. Always have the latest Idaho Fishing Seasons and Rules booklet with you. You can grab a copy where you buy your license or download it from the IDFG website. Pay close attention to:
- Bag Limits: How many fish you can keep.
- Seasons: When you can fish for certain species.
- Tackle Rules: Restrictions on bait and hooks in specific waters.
