How to Get a Nebraska Fishing License: A Complete Guide 2025

Fishing in Nebraska offers a diverse array of species and picturesque waters, making it a cherished activity for both residents and visitors. Before casting your line, it’s essential to understand the requirements and regulations for obtaining a fishing license in 2025. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable fishing experience.

1. Understanding the Need for a Fishing License

In Nebraska, a fishing license is mandatory for individuals aged 16 and over to fish in public waters. This requirement supports conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and fish stocking programs, ensuring sustainable fishing opportunities for all. The funds generated from license fees directly contribute to maintaining Nebraska’s fisheries and aquatic environments.

For more information, visit the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

2. Types of Fishing Licenses Available in Nebraska

Nebraska offers various fishing licenses to accommodate different needs, from one-day permits to lifetime options. Below is a breakdown of the available licenses for 2025:

Annual Fishing License

• Residents: $38
• Nonresidents: $84

Temporary Fishing Licenses

• 1-Day License:
• Residents: $10
• Nonresidents: $14.50
• 3-Day License:
• Residents: $31
• Nonresidents: $37

Combination Hunting & Fishing License

• Residents: $55
• Nonresidents: $178

Lifetime Fishing License

• Ages 0-15: $616
• Ages 16-45: $710
• Ages 46 and Over: $616

Paddlefish Permit

• Residents: $33
• Nonresidents: $57

Note: All fishing permits include the Nebraska Aquatic Habitat Stamp, which funds aquatic habitat improvements.

For detailed information about permits, check the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s official site.

3. How to Purchase a Nebraska Fishing License

You can obtain your fishing license through various methods for convenience:

1. Online

Visit the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website to purchase and print your fishing license. After purchase, you’ll receive a temporary authorization to use until your official license arrives.

2. In-Person

You can buy a fishing license at authorized vendors across Nebraska, such as sporting goods stores, bait shops, and NGPC offices. Use the interactive map on the NGPC website to locate a nearby vendor.

3. By Phone

Call the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at (402) 471-0641 during business hours to purchase your license with a credit card. Be ready to provide your personal information, such as your driver’s license number and Social Security number.

4. Key Fishing Regulations for 2025

It’s crucial to stay updated on Nebraska’s fishing regulations, as they can change annually. Some key updates and regulations for 2025 include:

Black Bass Regulations

• Frye Lake Wildlife Management Area: No minimum length limit, but only one bass 18 inches or longer is allowed in the five-fish daily bag limit.
• Prairie View Lake, Wagon Train State Recreation Area, Duck Creek Recreation Area, Prairie Queen Recreation Area: A five-fish bag limit with a protected slot of 15-18 inches. No more than one fish over 18 inches may be included in the daily bag.
• Patriot Park Lake: A 21-inch minimum length limit.

Channel Catfish Regulations

• The “one-over” size restriction for channel catfish on the Missouri River has been removed.

Walleye, Sauger, and Saugeye Regulations

• Branched Oak Lake: The daily bag limit is four, with a 15-inch minimum length limit, and a possession limit of eight. Only one fish over 22 inches may be kept.

Northern Pike Regulations

• Clear Lake, Dewey Lake, Hackberry Lake, Pelican Lake: A three-fish daily bag limit with a protected slot of 24-34 inches, and no more than one fish over 34 inches in the daily bag.
• Smith Lake WMA: A daily bag limit of 10 pike, with only three fish over 22 inches, and only one pike over 34 inches.

Striped Bass, White Bass, and Wiper Regulations

• The statewide “one-over” size restriction has changed. The length limit is now 18 inches or longer, allowing anglers to include one fish over 18 inches in the daily bag.

Baitfish Regulations

• The no-live-baitfish restriction at Lake Wanahoo has been lifted.

For a detailed list of all 2025 fishing regulations, please refer to the Nebraska Fishing Guide.

5. Free Fishing Days in Nebraska (2025)

Nebraska offers free fishing days where anglers can fish without a license. In 2025, the Free Fishing and Park Entry Day is scheduled for May 24, 2025. On this day, anyone can fish in Nebraska’s public waters without needing a license.

Important: While the fishing license requirement is waived on this day, all other fishing regulations, including bag limits, size restrictions, and species-specific rules, remain in effect.

6. Special Permits and Stamps

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Stamp

If you are using a boat, you must have an AIS stamp. This stamp is included in the Nebraska boat registration, but if you’re a nonresident angler fishing from a boat, you must purchase this stamp separately each year. It’s vital to help combat the spread of invasive species.

For more details, visit the Aquatic Invasive Species Stamp page.

Conclusion: Be Prepared for Your 2025 Fishing Adventure

Obtaining your 2025 Nebraska fishing license is a simple yet crucial step toward enjoying the state’s incredible fishing opportunities. Whether you are fishing for sport or relaxation, securing your license ensures you contribute to the conservation of Nebraska’s aquatic resources. Always review the latest fishing regulations and check for updates from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

By following these steps, you’ll be all set to enjoy a memorable fishing experience in Nebraska’s abundant waters.