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Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Fishing in Massachusetts is an exciting and rewarding activity, with opportunities ranging from serene freshwater lakes and rivers to the abundant coastal waters of the Bay State. Before you cast your line, it’s essential to understand the fishing license requirements. This detailed guide will cover everything you need to know about obtaining a fishing license in Massachusetts for 2025, including the types of licenses, costs, regulations, free fishing days, and expert tips.
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 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.
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 |
If you plan to fish both freshwater and saltwater, you can purchase a combination license:
Certain individuals qualify for special licenses:
Fishing license costs vary depending on residency, age, and type of fishing. Below is a detailed breakdown:
Although Massachusetts is not the cheapest, the rates are competitive and help fund conservation efforts that benefit the state’s fishing resources.
Purchasing your fishing license online is quick and convenient. Here’s how:
If you prefer to buy your license in person, you can visit:
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.
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:
Each species of fish has specific catch limits and size requirements to ensure that populations remain healthy. For example:
Many fish species in Massachusetts have specific fishing seasons to protect spawning and population health:
Some bodies of water have gear restrictions to ensure fishing practices are sustainable. Here are examples of common gear regulations:
Fishing without a valid license can result in significant penalties, including:
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.
Massachusetts offers Free Fishing Days for anyone who wants to try fishing without a license:
While a license is typically required, there are a few exceptions:
Fishing license fees are used to fund essential conservation efforts. Here’s a breakdown of how the funds are allocated:
This funding directly contributes to maintaining and improving fishing opportunities in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts is home to diverse fishing spots, ranging from urban areas to remote mountain lakes. Some of the best fishing locations include:
As a responsible angler, consider these best practices to preserve Massachusetts’ aquatic ecosystems:
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.
Yes, anglers aged 15 and above must possess a valid Massachusetts fishing license to fish in the state’s waters. The only exception is for children under 15, who can fish without a license if accompanied by a licensed adult.
Yes, you can purchase a fishing license as a gift for someone else. However, you will need to provide their personal information, such as name, address, and date of birth, to complete the transaction.
If you lose your fishing license, you can easily replace it. Simply visit the Massachusetts Fish and Wildlife online licensing system, log into your account, and reprint your license. You can also visit a licensed vendor or contact the MassFishHunt customer service line for assistance.
Yes, Massachusetts typically offers a few free fishing days each year, usually in June and July. During these designated days, residents and non-residents can fish without a license. However, all other fishing regulations, such as catch limits and size restrictions, still apply. Check the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife website for the most up-to-date information on free fishing days.
Yes, Massachusetts requires separate licenses for saltwater and freshwater fishing. If you plan to fish in both saltwater and freshwater, you will need to purchase both a freshwater fishing license and a saltwater fishing permit.