How to Get a Minnesota Fishing License

Minnesota’s 10,000+ lakes, rivers, and streams offer world-class fishing opportunities for walleye, bass, trout, and panfish. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting from out of state, obtaining a valid Minnesota fishing license is your first step to enjoying these pristine waters legally and responsibly. In 2022, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR) sold over 1.2 million licenses—generating more than $24 million for aquatic habitat conservation. This comprehensive guide, updated for 2025, provides detailed, actionable advice on how to secure your license, understand regulations, take advantage of free fishing days, and more.

Who Needs a Minnesota Fishing License?

Before you cast your line, determine if you are required to have a license.

Minnesota Residents

• Who: Anglers aged 16 to 89
• Options: Choose from annual licenses or short-term permits (e.g., 24-hour or 72-hour licenses)
• Exemptions:
• Under age 16
• Age 90 and older
• Active military on leave (carry leave papers)
• Disabled veterans with a 100% service-connected disability (documentation required)

Non-Residents

• Who: Anyone aged 16 and older visiting Minnesota
• Options: Various durations including daily, short-term, or annual licenses
• Exemptions:
• Youth under 16 fishing under a licensed parent or guardian

Tip: Always verify the most current exemption criteria and eligibility requirements on the official MN DNR website before planning your trip.

5 Simple Steps to Get Your Minnesota Fishing License

Follow these specific steps to ensure you’re fully licensed and ready for the fishing season in 2025.

1. Check Your Eligibility

• Action: Review your age, residency status, and any special conditions (such as military status or disability).
• Resources: Visit the MN DNR Fishing Licenses page for detailed eligibility requirements.

2. Choose the Right License Type

Select the license that best fits your fishing plans:

• Annual License: Best if you plan to fish frequently throughout the season (valid from March 1, 2025, through February 28, 2026).
• Short-Term Permits:
• 24-Hour License: Ideal for one-day trips.
• 72-Hour License: Perfect for weekend excursions.
• Combination Licenses: Consider the Sports license (fish/hunt combo) if you enjoy multiple outdoor activities.

Cost Breakdown (Approximate as of 2025):

License Type	MN Resident	Non-Resident
Annual License	$25	$51
24-Hour License	$10	$12
72-Hour License	$15	$16
Trout Stamp	$10	$10
Sports (Fish/Hunt Combo)	$41	$97

Note: Prices may include additional agent fees or small convenience charges when purchasing online. Check for the most up-to-date pricing details on the official MN DNR Licensing Sales Portal.

3. Purchase Your License

You have several secure and verified purchasing options:

• Online:
• How: Visit the MN DNR’s official License Sales Portal.
• Advantages: 24/7 availability, instant printing option, and the ability to save a digital copy.
• By Phone:
• How: Call 1-888-665-4236 (1-MN-LICENSE) for assistance with your purchase.
• In-Person:
• Where: Purchase from MN DNR offices, bait shops, sporting goods stores, or select Walmarts.
• Availability: Over 1,500 locations statewide.

Action: Choose the method that best suits your needs and complete your purchase well before your planned fishing trip.

4. Carry Your License at All Times

To stay compliant with Minnesota law, always have your license accessible while fishing:

• Digital Copies:
• How: Save the PDF version on your smartphone.
• Requirement: Ensure you can show the full, unaltered document to enforcement officers if requested.
• Printed Copies:
• How: Print and laminate your license, then store it in your wallet or tackle box.

Tip: Carry both a digital and a printed copy for extra security, especially in remote areas.

5. Review Regulations and Bag Limits

Before you begin fishing, make sure you are aware of specific regulations for your chosen fishing spot:

• Regulations:
• Season Dates: Fishing licenses are valid from March 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026 (or February 29 in a leap year).
• Bag Limits & Size Restrictions: Vary by species and water body.
• Additional Permits: Some waters require extra stamps (e.g., trout/salmon stamps) or tags (e.g., sturgeon tags).
• Tools:
• Use the MN DNR’s LakeFinder tool to access up-to-date information on regulations, bag limits, and seasonal restrictions for specific lakes, rivers, and streams.
• Free Fishing Days:
• When: Look for announcements on designated free fishing weekends, which are updated on the MN DNR website.
• Conditions: Even on free days, all standard regulations and catch limits apply.

Action: Review and print or bookmark the regulatory details for your specific fishing location before heading out.

Understanding Fishing Regulations and Free Fishing Days

Fishing Regulations

• Season Dates: Licenses are valid from March 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026.
• Bag Limits & Size Restrictions: Specific to each water body and fish species—always consult the MN DNR regulations to avoid penalties.
• Additional Permits: Some areas require extra permits such as trout/salmon stamps, which are available during the license purchase process.

Free Fishing Days

Minnesota promotes outdoor recreation with designated free fishing days:

• Eligibility: Primarily targets anglers who might not normally purchase a license and encourages youth participation.
• Regulations: Even on free fishing days, all state fishing rules—including bag limits and reporting requirements—must be followed.
• Staying Informed:
• How: Regularly check the MN DNR news and updates or sign up for email notifications.
• Action: Mark your calendar with the announced free fishing weekends to plan cost-effective fishing trips.

Consequences of Fishing Without a License

Enforcement in Minnesota is strict. Fishing without a valid license can result in severe penalties:

• First Offense: Fines between $100 and $300.
• Repeat Offenses: Fines can escalate up to $1,000, with possible jail time of up to 90 days.
• Case Example: In 2021, a Minnesota angler was fined $275 for fishing on a trout stream without the proper license and required trout stamp.

Quote from Jon Hansen, MN DNR Fisheries Licensing Supervisor:
“Fishing license dollars are critical for sustaining healthy fish populations and habitats for current and future anglers. Buying a license is quick, easy, and one of the most important things anglers can do to support fishing.”

Practical Tips for a Smooth Licensing Experience

• Plan Ahead:
• Purchase your license before the season begins to avoid last-minute delays.
• Check for any updates or changes to regulations early in the season.
• Keep Multiple Copies:
• Store both digital and printed copies of your license to ensure compliance even if one format is lost or inaccessible.
• Update Your Information:
• If you change your residence or contact details, promptly update your MN DNR customer record via the official website.
• Share the Knowledge:
• Educate your fishing buddies about licensing requirements—responsible fishing is a community effort.
• Watch for Promotions:
• Occasionally, the MN DNR or local retailers offer bundled deals or discounts. Keep an eye on the official MN DNR website for current offers.

Get Your License & Go Fish MN!

Whether you’re planning a weekend cabin getaway, a summer fishing tournament, or an ice fishing trip in the winter, being properly licensed not only keeps you legally compliant but also supports vital conservation efforts that protect Minnesota’s fish populations and habitats.

So, what are you waiting for?
Get your Minnesota fishing license today from the official MN DNR License Sales Portal, hit your favorite honey holes, and enjoy everything the Land of 10,000 Lakes has to offer in 2025 and beyond.