Fishing is a beloved pastime in Michigan, with the state’s 11,000 inland lakes, 36,000 miles of rivers and streams, and access to four of the five Great Lakes offering world-class angling opportunities. However, before you can wet a line, it’s crucial to understand Michigan’s fishing license requirements. This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a fishing license in Michigan, including who needs one, the types available, where to buy, associated fees, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Key Takeaways for Obtaining a Michigan Fishing License
- Nearly all anglers 17 and older need a valid Michigan fishing license.
- License prices range from $2 for a voluntary youth license to $76 for a non-resident annual license.
- Licenses can be purchased online, through the MDNR mobile app, or at authorized retailers.
- Most licenses expire on March 31 each year.
- Free fishing weekends occur in February and June, during which no license is required.
Why You Need a Michigan Fishing License
Michigan fishing licenses serve several important purposes:
- Conservation Funding: License fees directly support the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ (MDNR) efforts to protect and enhance the state’s fisheries and aquatic habitats. This includes operating fish hatcheries, conducting research, and enforcing regulations.
- Regulation Compliance: By requiring licenses, the MDNR can effectively manage fish populations and ensure sustainable harvest levels. Licenses also help enforce size limits, seasons, and catch limits.
- Access and Opportunity: Your license fees help maintain public fishing access sites, piers, and boat launches, as well as stock fish in many waters to provide diverse fishing opportunities.
Who Needs a Michigan Fishing License?
Most anglers in Michigan must have a valid fishing license. Specifically:
- Residents and Non-Residents: All anglers 17 years of age or older, regardless of residency, must purchase a license to fish in Michigan waters.
- Assisting Youths: Any adult actively assisting a minor (under 17) who is fishing must also have a valid fishing license. Adults without a license can still help with tasks like baiting hooks, netting fish, and removing hooks.
There are a few exceptions to these requirements:
- Youths Under 17: Anglers under the age of 17 can fish without a license. However, they must adhere to all other fishing rules and regulations.
- Free Fishing Weekends: Twice per year, the MDNR designates Free Fishing Weekends when licenses are not required. These typically occur in February and June.
- Active Military Personnel: Michigan residents who are full-time active-duty U.S. military personnel can obtain fishing licenses at no cost. Non-resident active-duty military stationed in Michigan are eligible for resident license fees.
Types of Michigan Fishing Licenses and Fees
Michigan offers several fishing license options to cater to different angling preferences and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the main license types and their 2023 fees:
Resident Licenses
- Annual All-Species: $26
- Senior Annual All-Species (65+): $11
- Daily All-Species: $10
Non-Resident Licenses
- Annual All-Species: $76
- Daily All-Species: $10
Other License Types
- 24-Hour (Resident or Non-Resident): $10
- 72-Hour (Resident or Non-Resident): $30
- Voluntary Youth Annual (Under 17): $2
Note that a $1 surcharge is added to the annual and senior annual licenses to fund educational outreach about the benefits of hunting and fishing in Michigan.
Where to Buy a Michigan Fishing License
Obtaining your fishing license is a quick and convenient process, with multiple purchase options:
Online
- Visit the MDNR Online Store to buy your license 24/7. You can print your license immediately or save it to your mobile device.
MDNR Hunt Fish Mobile App
- Download the official MDNR Hunt Fish mobile app for iOS or Android to purchase and store your licenses on your smartphone.
In Person
- Visit any of the 1,500+ license agents across the state, including many bait shops, sporting goods stores, and major retailers like Meijer, Walmart, and Dunham’s. Use the MDNR License Agent Locator to find a location near you.
- Stop by an MDNR Customer Service Center during regular business hours.
When buying a license, you’ll need to provide identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID. If you don’t have one of these, you can purchase a $1 DNR Sportcard to serve as your primary ID for buying licenses.
Michigan Fishing License Expiration Dates
It’s important to note when your fishing license expires to ensure you’re always fishing legally. Here are the key expiration details:
- Annual licenses, including the resident, non-resident, and senior annual licenses, are valid from March 1 of the purchase year through March 31 of the following year.
- Daily and multi-day licenses (24-hour and 72-hour) expire at midnight on the end date printed on the license.
If you plan to fish on or after April 1, make sure you have a new license for that season.
Reporting Your Catch: Harvest Registration
In addition to having a valid fishing license, anglers must adhere to harvest reporting requirements for certain species:
- Sturgeon: If you harvest a lake sturgeon, you must register it within 24 hours by visiting the Lake Sturgeon Harvest Reporting Form or calling the Lake Sturgeon Harvest Registration Hotline at 844-345-3474.
- Muskellunge: Anglers who harvest a muskellunge are encouraged to report their catch by visiting the Muskellunge Harvest Reporting Form or calling the Muskellunge Harvest Hotline at 844-642-8674.
Reporting harvest data helps the MDNR make informed management decisions to sustain these iconic fisheries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Fishing Licenses
Do I need a fishing license if I’m catch-and-release fishing?
Yes, a license is required anytime you are fishing in Michigan waters, even if you don’t plan to keep any fish.
Can I use my Michigan fishing license to fish in other states?
No, a Michigan fishing license is only valid within the state’s borders. However, Michigan does have reciprocal agreements with Indiana, Wisconsin, and Ontario (Canada) that allow anglers to fish certain boundary waters with either state’s license. Check the MDNR Fishing Guide for details.
What happens if I lose my fishing license?
If you purchased your license online, you can reprint it from the MDNR Online Store. If you bought it in person, visit a license agent or MDNR Customer Service Center to obtain a duplicate for a small fee.
Are there any special permits required for specific species or methods?
Anglers pursuing certain opportunities may need to obtain additional free permits, such as the Underwater Spearfishing Permit when spearfishing in select waters. Consult the MDNR Fishing Guide for specific permit requirements.
How can I stay up to date on Michigan’s fishing regulations?
The MDNR publishes the annual Michigan Fishing Guide, which contains all the current statewide and waterbody-specific regulations. You can view the guide online at Michigan.gov/DNRDigests, or pick up a physical copy anywhere licenses are sold.
Conclusion
Obtaining your Michigan fishing license is a simple yet essential step in responsibly enjoying the state’s incredible angling resources. By purchasing a license, you’re not only gaining access to diverse fishing opportunities but also investing in the conservation and improvement of Michigan’s fisheries for generations to come.
Remember to always carry your license with you while fishing, as conservation officers may request to see it. And before hitting the water, review the current Michigan Fishing Guide to ensure you’re following all regulations and doing your part to protect and sustain Michigan’s world-class fisheries.
