How Much Is a Fishing License in Virginia?

Comprehensive Guide to Fishing Licenses in Virginia for 2025

Fishing in Virginia’s abundant waters is a cherished activity for anglers of all ages. Before you cast your line, it’s essential to understand the state’s fishing license requirements and fees. This guide provides detailed and actionable information to ensure a smooth and legal fishing experience in Virginia in 2025.

The Importance of Obtaining a Virginia Fishing License

Fishing licenses are not just a legal requirement; they also play a vital role in conserving and managing Virginia’s aquatic resources. The revenue generated from license sales supports various programs aimed at protecting and enhancing the state’s fisheries. By obtaining a fishing license, you’re contributing to the preservation of Virginia’s natural treasures for future generations.

Who Needs a Virginia Fishing License?

In Virginia, individuals aged 16 and older must possess a valid fishing license to fish in public waters, including lakes, rivers, streams, and coastal areas. However, certain exemptions apply:

• Private Property: Fishing on private property you own or have explicit permission to fish on does not require a license.
• Saltwater Charter Boats: Fishing on saltwater charter boats does not require a license for the charter crew.
• Active-Duty Military: Active-duty military personnel on official leave are exempt from purchasing a fishing license.
• Legally Blind Individuals: Persons who are legally blind are exempt from fishing license requirements.
• Native Americans: Native Americans residing on reservations or recognized tribe members are exempt from fishing license requirements.
• Residents 65 and Older: Residents aged 65 and older are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement but must comply with the Virginia Fisherman Identification Program (FIP) requirements.

It’s important to note that these exceptions may have specific requirements or limitations. For the most current information, refer to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources’ official website here.

Types of Virginia Fishing Licenses and Fees

Virginia offers a variety of fishing licenses to cater to different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options and their associated fees for 2025:

Resident Licenses

• County/City Resident Freshwater Fishing: $16.00 (valid only in your county or city of residence)
• State Resident Annual Freshwater Fishing: $23.00
• State Resident 5-Day Freshwater Fishing: $14.00
• State Resident Annual Saltwater Fishing: $17.50
• State Resident Annual Freshwater/Saltwater Combo: $39.50
• Resident Trout Fishing: $23.00 (required in addition to other licenses when fishing in stocked waters from October 1 through June 15)

Non-Resident Licenses

• Nonresident State Freshwater Fishing: $47.00
• Nonresident Saltwater Fishing License: $25.00
• Nonresident State Fresh/Saltwater Fishing: $71.00
• Nonresident 1-Day Freshwater Fishing: $8.00
• Nonresident 5-Day Freshwater Fishing: $21.00
• Nonresident 10-Day Saltwater Fishing License: $10.00
• Nonresident 5-Day Fresh/Saltwater Fishing: $31.00
• Nonresident Trout Fishing: $23.00 (required in addition to other nonresident licenses when fishing in stocked waters from October 1 through June 15)

Please note that these fees are subject to change. For the most current information, refer to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources’ official website here.

Additional Permits and Fees

Depending on where and how you plan to fish, you may need to obtain additional permits or pay extra fees:

• National Forest Permit: $4.00 (required for fishing in National Forests)
• State Forest Use Permit: $16.00 (required for fishing in State Forests)
• County Dip Net Permit: $4.50 (required for taking shad, herring, and mullet)
• Daily Permit: $8.00 (required at Clinch Mountain, Crooked Creek, and Douthat State Park fee fishing areas, in addition to regular licenses)

It’s essential to check the specific regulations for the water body you plan to fish, as some may have additional requirements or restrictions.

Where to Buy a Virginia Fishing License

Virginia offers several convenient options for purchasing your fishing license:

• Online: Visit the Go Outdoors Virginia website to create an account and purchase your license electronically. This is often the most convenient option, as you can print your license immediately or save it on your mobile device. You can access the website here.
• By Phone: Call (804) 367-1000 during regular business hours to purchase your license over the phone.
• In Person: Many Circuit Court clerks, license agents, and the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) headquarters sell fishing licenses. You can find a list of license agents on the DWR website here.
• Mobile App: Download the Go Outdoors Virginia mobile app to purchase and store your license on your smartphone.

Pro Tip: If you lose your printed license, you can easily reprint it by logging into your Go Outdoors Virginia account or visiting a license agent.

Tips for Choosing the Right Virginia Fishing License

With many fishing license options available in Virginia, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. To help you make an informed decision, here are detailed tips for selecting the right license:

• Consider Your Residency Status:
  • Resident licenses are typically far cheaper than non-resident options. If you live in Virginia, make sure to purchase a resident license to benefit from the lower fees. Non-resident licenses can be significantly more expensive, so verify your residency status before purchasing.
  • For example, in 2025, a resident freshwater fishing license costs $23.00 annually, while a non-resident freshwater license costs $47.00 annually.
  • Be sure to review the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) website for any updated residency requirements here.
• Think About Where You’ll Be Fishing:
  • If you plan to fish in both freshwater and saltwater, a combination license may be more cost-effective than buying separate licenses for each type. For instance, the annual resident freshwater and saltwater combo license costs $39.50, whereas a separate freshwater license is $23.00, and a saltwater license costs $17.50, which would total $40.50.
  • Check the areas where you’ll be fishing to ensure you’re selecting the right type of license that covers both freshwater and saltwater activities if needed.
• Evaluate Your Fishing Frequency:
  • If you’re a casual or occasional angler, a short-term license might be more economical. For instance, the 5-day freshwater fishing license for residents is only $14.00, compared to $23.00 for an annual license.
  • Similarly, the 10-day saltwater fishing license for non-residents costs $10.00, making it a budget-friendly option for a brief visit.
  • If you only fish occasionally or on vacations, these short-term options can save you money without committing to a full year of fishing.
• Check for Additional Requirements:
  • Some fishing locations require additional permits or fees. For example, fishing in National Forests requires a $4.00 permit, while fishing in State Forests requires a $16.00 permit.
  • If you plan to fish at specific fee areas like Clinch Mountain, Crooked Creek, or Douthat State Park, you’ll need a daily permit in addition to your regular fishing license.
  • Always confirm the specific requirements for the water bodies you plan to visit. Detailed regulations are available on the official DWR website.
• Look for Discounts:
  • Virginia offers discounts for specific groups. For example, seniors, veterans, and youth anglers may qualify for reduced fees or special licenses.
  • If you fall into one of these categories, be sure to check for any promotions or discounts on the DWR website to ensure you’re getting the best possible price for your license.

Responsible Fishing in Virginia

While obtaining the proper fishing license is essential, practicing responsible fishing is just as important. Following these key guidelines helps ensure that Virginia’s waters remain healthy and accessible for future generations of anglers:

• Familiarize Yourself with Regulations:
  • Regulations regarding fishing seasons, species limits, and methods can vary widely based on location and time of year. Before heading out, check the Virginia Freshwater Fishing Regulations and Virginia Saltwater Fishing Regulations to stay compliant with the law.
  • Different species may have size or catch limits, and certain areas may have seasonal restrictions.
• Practice Catch-and-Release:
  • Consider practicing catch-and-release for species you don’t plan to eat. This approach ensures that fish populations stay healthy and continue to thrive in Virginia’s waters. Releasing fish properly can help them survive after being caught and prevent overfishing in certain areas.
• Respect the Environment:
  • Always dispose of trash, fishing line, and bait containers properly to protect Virginia’s natural resources. Littering not only harms the environment but can also affect local wildlife and ecosystems.
  • Use biodegradable materials when possible and carry out everything you bring into the wilderness.
• Report Violations:
  • If you witness any illegal fishing activities, such as fishing without a license or violating catch limits, report it to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources’ Wildlife Crime Line at 1-800-237-5712.
  • Protecting Virginia’s aquatic resources is a shared responsibility, and your involvement helps preserve these valuable resources for all.

By following these guidelines and making well-informed decisions when purchasing your fishing license, you can contribute to preserving Virginia’s natural treasures and ensure that future generations of anglers have access to the same abundant waters that you enjoy.

Conclusion

Fishing in Virginia’s diverse waters is a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to ensure that you’re properly licensed and informed about the regulations. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can enjoy a hassle-free and responsible fishing experience while contributing to the conservation of Virginia’s aquatic resources.

Remember, obtaining the correct fishing license is not just a legal requirement; it’s also a way to support the preservation of Virginia’s natural treasures for future generations of anglers to enjoy. So, before you cast your line, make sure you have the appropriate license and familiarize yourself with the regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing adventure.

For more information and updates, visit the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website or consult with local fishing experts and enthusiasts.