How Much Does a Massachusetts Fishing License Cost in 2025?

If you’re planning to fish in Massachusetts in 2025, knowing the exact cost of a fishing license is crucial before you head out. Whether you’re aiming for freshwater lakes or the coastal saltwater spots, Massachusetts requires anglers 15 and older to have the appropriate license or permit. Resident freshwater fishing licenses are priced at $36.50 annually, with discounted rates or exemptions for minors and seniors, while saltwater permits cost $10 for anglers under 60 and are free for those 60 and older. This guide breaks down the license types, fees, and how to get them—ensuring you fish legally and avoid fines without hassle.

Types of Fishing Licenses in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers various fishing licenses based on factors such as age, residency status, and the type of fishing you plan to do (freshwater or saltwater). Here’s an in-depth breakdown:

Freshwater Fishing Licenses

Freshwater fishing is permitted in Massachusetts lakes, rivers, and ponds. The following are the license options for freshwater fishing:

License Type	Age Group	Resident Fee	Non-Resident Fee
Adult	18-64	$33	$43
Minor	15-17	Free	$7.40
Senior (65-69)	65-69	$16.50	N/A
Senior (70+)	70+	Free	N/A

Note: The minor (15-17 years) fishing license for non-residents is $7.40, but minors in Massachusetts (under 16) do not need a license for freshwater fishing.

Saltwater Fishing Permits

For fishing in saltwater (oceans, bays, and coastal waters), the following saltwater permits are required:

Age Group	Fee (Resident & Non-Resident)
Under 60	$10
60 and Over	Free

Combination Licenses

If you plan to fish both freshwater and saltwater, you can purchase a combination license:

• Resident Freshwater/Saltwater Combination: $43
• Non-Resident Freshwater/Saltwater Combination: $53

Special Licenses

Certain individuals qualify for special licenses:

• Disabled Veteran License: Free (with proper documentation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)
• Handicapped License: Available at a reduced rate for individuals with disabilities.

How Much Does a Fishing License Cost?

Fishing license costs vary depending on residency, age, and type of fishing. Below is a detailed breakdown:

• Residents generally pay lower fees than non-residents.
• Minors and seniors often qualify for free or discounted licenses.

Neighboring State Fishing License Comparison (2025 rates for adult residents):

• Massachusetts: $33 (Freshwater)
• New Hampshire: $45
• Vermont: $28
• Connecticut: $28
• Rhode Island: $21

Although Massachusetts is not the cheapest, the rates are competitive and help fund conservation efforts that benefit the state’s fishing resources.

How to Get a Fishing License in Massachusetts

Online Purchase Guide

Purchasing your fishing license online is quick and convenient. Here’s how:

1. Visit the official MassFishHunt website: MassFishHunt Website.
2. Click on the “Buy a License” link.
3. Create a MassFishHunt account (or log in if you already have one).
4. Select the license type you need (freshwater, saltwater, combination).
5. Enter required personal information.
6. Pay with a credit or debit card.
7. Download your license or print it directly from the website.

In-Person Options

If you prefer to buy your license in person, you can visit:

• MassWildlife offices (cash or check only).
• Authorized vendors, such as sporting goods stores, bait shops, and outdoor retailers.

Mobile App

The MassFishHunt app is available for iOS and Android. This app allows you to purchase and store your fishing license on your phone, making it easy to access when you head out to fish.

Massachusetts Fishing Regulations: What You Need to Know

Fishing regulations are crucial for the sustainability of the state’s aquatic ecosystems. Here are the most important rules and regulations to be aware of when fishing in Massachusetts:

Catch Limits & Size Restrictions

Each species of fish has specific catch limits and size requirements to ensure that populations remain healthy. For example:

• Largemouth and smallmouth bass:
• Daily limit: 5 fish.
• Minimum size: 12 inches.
• Trout:
• In certain areas, trout may have special size restrictions (e.g., catch-and-release rules in some waters).
• Catch limits: Typically 2 to 5 fish per day, depending on location.

Seasonal Fishing Restrictions

Many fish species in Massachusetts have specific fishing seasons to protect spawning and population health:

• Trout: Best fished in spring and fall. Certain stocked ponds have seasonal closures during the winter.
• Striped Bass: Peak season runs from May to November along the coast. Specific size and bag limits apply during the peak season.

Gear Restrictions: Specifics You Need to Know

Some bodies of water have gear restrictions to ensure fishing practices are sustainable. Here are examples of common gear regulations:

1. Hook Types & Sizes:

• Barbed hooks are prohibited in some areas, especially in catch-and-release zones.
• Always check if circle hooks are required for certain species like striped bass.

1. Lines per Angler:

• Limit of two lines per person for most freshwater fishing, except in special regulated areas.
• Some saltwater areas restrict the use of multiple lines per angler.

1. Bait Restrictions:

• Live bait may be prohibited in certain waters to protect native species.
• Artificial lures are encouraged in catch-and-release zones.
• In specific waters like the Quabbin Reservoir, only artificial lures are allowed.

Penalties for Fishing Without a License

Fishing without a valid license can result in significant penalties, including:

• Fines: Ranging from $50 to $500 depending on the offense.
• Loss of fishing privileges: In more severe cases, you may be banned from fishing for a period of time.
• Seizure of Equipment: Illegal gear or fish may be confiscated by law enforcement.

To avoid penalties, always ensure you have a valid license and are aware of the latest fishing regulations. Check the MassWildlife Regulations Guide for up-to-date information.

Free Fishing Days & Special Programs

Massachusetts offers Free Fishing Days for anyone who wants to try fishing without a license:

• Free Fishing Days: Typically held in June each year. You can fish for free on these days, but all other regulations still apply.
• Angler Education Program: Free fishing clinics and educational events are available throughout the year to teach beginners how to fish responsibly. Check for updates on the MassWildlife Events Calendar.

Fishing Without a License: Special Exemptions

While a license is typically required, there are a few exceptions:

• Private Property: You do not need a license to fish on private property with the owner’s permission.
• Charter Boats: Passengers on for-hire boats that hold a valid charter boat license do not need a personal fishing license.
• Youth Under 15: Minors do not need a fishing license when accompanied by a licensed adult.

Where Your License Money Goes

Fishing license fees are used to fund essential conservation efforts. Here’s a breakdown of how the funds are allocated:

• 45%: Fish stocking and habitat management.
• 30%: Fish population research and monitoring.
• 15%: Public access improvements (e.g., building fishing piers, boat ramps).
• 10%: Educational programs and outreach.

This funding directly contributes to maintaining and improving fishing opportunities in Massachusetts.

Expert Tips and Fishing Locations

Massachusetts is home to diverse fishing spots, ranging from urban areas to remote mountain lakes. Some of the best fishing locations include:

• Quabbin Reservoir: Excellent for lake trout and landlocked salmon.
• Cape Cod Bay: A hotspot for striped bass and bluefish.
• Wachusett Reservoir: Known for smallmouth bass and trout.
• Merrimack River: Great for striped bass and shad.
• Deerfield River: A paradise for trout anglers, especially those into fly-fishing.

Seasonal Fishing Opportunities:

• Spring: Trout fishing in stocked ponds and rivers.
• Summer: Striped bass fishing off the coast.
• Fall: Largemouth bass fishing in ponds and lakes.
• Winter: Ice fishing for pickerel and perch.

Responsible Fishing Practices

As a responsible angler, consider these best practices to preserve Massachusetts’ aquatic ecosystems:

• Practice catch and release: Release fish carefully to minimize stress.
• Use proper gear: Choose tackle that minimizes harm to fish.
• Clean up: Dispose of trash properly, including fishing line and hooks.
• Prevent invasive species: Clean boats and gear between water bodies.
• Report violations: Contact the Environmental Police if you witness illegal fishing activities.

Conclusion

Obtaining a fishing license in Massachusetts is not just about compliance—it’s an investment in the state’s fishing resources and conservation efforts. By understanding license types, costs, and regulations, you can ensure a fun, legal, and responsible fishing experience.

Whether you’re fishing the serene waters of a mountain stream or going for a big catch off the coast, your fishing license helps preserve these resources for future generations.

For more information on fishing licenses in other states, check out our guides on how to get a fishing license in Maryland, fishing license requirements in Delaware, and saltwater fishing licenses in Florida.