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Lake Champlain stretches 120 miles along the border between New York and Vermont, creating one of the Northeast’s premier fishing destinations. This vast freshwater lake hosts diverse fish species including lake trout, landlocked salmon, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and many others. However, its border location creates unique licensing considerations for anglers. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about fishing licenses for Lake Champlain in 2025, helping you navigate the reciprocal agreement between New York and Vermont while ensuring you’re fishing legally.
Understanding Lake Champlain’s Unique Status
Lake Champlain’s position between two states creates a distinctive jurisdictional situation for anglers. The lake’s 490 square miles of water surface create natural boundaries that fishing regulations must address. Recognizing the challenges this presents to fishermen, New York and Vermont established a formal reciprocal agreement that simplifies licensing requirements for most areas of the lake.
The Lake Champlain Reciprocal Agreement
The Lake Champlain Reciprocal Agreement, implemented on January 1, 2004, allows anglers to fish most of Lake Champlain with either a valid New York or Vermont fishing license. This cooperative arrangement acknowledges the lake’s shared importance to both states while making it more convenient and affordable for anglers to enjoy the entire lake.
Under this agreement, anglers can fish in designated waters of Lake Champlain regardless of which state issued their license. This means you can legally fish from either shore or from a boat in these areas with just one state’s license. The agreement specifically covers:
- The “Main Lake” portion between New York and Vermont
- The “South Lake” portion between the two states
Areas Not Covered by the Agreement
While the reciprocal agreement covers most of Lake Champlain, several areas still require specific state licenses:
- New York License Required: South Bay and other New York embayments (typically marked in yellow on official maps)
- Vermont License Required: The Inland Sea, Mallett’s Bay, Missisquoi Bay, and the passage between North and South Hero Island known as “The Gut” (typically marked in red on official maps)
Additionally, the reciprocal agreement does not extend to tributaries flowing into Lake Champlain. When fishing in rivers that feed into the lake, you must have a license from the state in which that tributary is located.
Following Regulations by Location
An important aspect of the reciprocal agreement that many anglers overlook is that you must follow the fishing regulations of the state in whose waters you’re fishing, regardless of which license you hold. This means understanding both states’ regulations for:
- Catch limits
- Size restrictions
- Seasonal openings and closings
- Fishing methods
- Species-specific rules
For example, if you’re fishing on the Vermont side of the main lake with a New York license, you must follow Vermont’s fishing regulations for that area.
New York Fishing License Requirements 2025
New York offers several fishing license options for Lake Champlain anglers, with different requirements and costs depending on your residency status and how long you plan to fish.
Who Needs a NY Fishing License
In New York, anyone 16 years or older needs a valid fishing license when fishing in freshwaters, including Lake Champlain. This requirement applies when fishing for:
- Any freshwater fish species by angling, spearing, hooking, longbow, and tip-ups
- Frog species by spearing, catching with hands, or using a club or hook
- Freshwater baitfish for personal use
The license must be in your possession while fishing and must be presented upon request to any conservation officer, park ranger, or person in control of the property where you’re fishing.
NY License Types and Costs for 2025
New York State offers various fishing license options with different fees for residents and non-residents:
| License Type | NY Resident | NY Resident (70+) | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $25 | $5 | $50 |
| 7-Day | $12 | $12 | $28 |
| 1-Day | $5 | $5 | $10 |
Note: New York considers you a resident if your primary home is in New York and you’ve lived there for at least 30 days prior to purchasing a license.
NY License Exemptions
You don’t need a New York fishing license if you fall into one of these categories:
- Under 16 years of age
- A resident landowner primarily engaged in farming (including lessees and immediate family members) when fishing on your own land
- Fishing during designated Free Fishing Days or participating in a free fishing clinic sponsored by the DEC
- Fishing on licensed fishing preserves
- A resident patient at Department of Mental Health institutions or rehabilitation hospitals, or an inmate at Division of Youth rehabilitation centers (exemptions must be requested through the institution)
New York’s Free Fishing Days for 2025 include the last full weekend in June and additional days in February, September, and Veterans Day (November 11). During these days, anyone can fish New York’s waters without a license.
How and Where to Purchase a NY License
New York provides three ways to obtain a fishing license:
- Online: Through the NY Department of Environmental Conservation website
- In Person: Visit a licensed issuing agent such as:
- Sporting goods stores
- Town clerks
- Walmart and similar retailers
- DEC offices
- By Phone: Call 1-866-933-2257
For more information about New York fishing licenses, you can visit our detailed guide at TeenFish – NY Fishing.
Vermont Fishing License Requirements 2025
Vermont’s fishing license system shares similarities with New York’s but has some unique characteristics that Lake Champlain anglers should understand.
Who Needs a VT Fishing License
In Vermont, anyone 15 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license while fishing. This is one year younger than New York’s requirement, which means 15-year-olds must have a Vermont license even when fishing in the reciprocal areas of Lake Champlain.
Your Vermont fishing license must be carried on your person while fishing and must be shown upon request to any authorized enforcement officer.
VT License Types and Costs for 2025
Vermont offers a variety of fishing license options with different fees for residents and non-residents:
| License Type | VT Resident | VT Youth (15-17) | Non-Resident | Non-Resident Youth (15-17) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $28 | $8 | $54 | $15 |
| 5-Year | $134 | N/A | $264 | N/A |
| 3-Day | $11 | $11 | $23 | $23 |
| 1-Day | N/A | N/A | $21 | $21 |
| 7-Day | N/A | N/A | $31 | $31 |
Note: Vermont considers you a resident if you have lived in the state for at least 6 months and have an intent to make Vermont your permanent home.
VT License Exemptions
Vermont provides several exemptions from fishing license requirements:
- Children under 15 years of age
- Vermont residents who are veterans with a 60% or greater service-connected disability
- Vermont residents who are military personnel on active duty while on authorized leave
- Vermont residents who are blind
- Native Americans from recognized tribes
Vermont also offers Free Fishing Days when anyone can fish without a license. In 2025, these include the second Saturday in June and the last Saturday in January (for ice fishing).
How and Where to Purchase a VT License
Vermont offers several ways to purchase your fishing license:
- Online: Through the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department website
- In Person: From approximately 200 license agents throughout Vermont, including:
- Sporting goods stores
- Town clerk offices
- General stores
- Walmart and similar retailers
- By App: Using the official Vermont Outdoors mobile app
- By Phone: Call 802-828-1000
For more information about Vermont fishing licenses, visit our detailed guide at TeenFish – Ultimate Wisconsin Fishing Guide which also covers neighboring state comparisons.
Comparing NY and VT Licenses: Which to Choose?
When deciding between a New York or Vermont fishing license for Lake Champlain, consider these key factors to make the best choice for your specific situation.
Cost Comparison
For most anglers, cost is a primary consideration. Here’s how the two states compare for annual licenses:
| Angler Category | New York | Vermont | Best Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Resident | $25 | $28 | New York |
| Senior Resident (70+) | $5 | $28 | New York |
| Youth | Free under 16 | $8 (ages 15-17) | New York |
| Non-Resident Adult | $50 | $54 | New York |
| Non-Resident Short Trip | $10 (1-day) | $21 (1-day) | New York |
As shown in the table, New York generally offers lower prices across most license categories, especially for seniors aged
70+ who receive a significant discount. However, price shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision.
Coverage Comparison
Consider where on Lake Champlain you plan to fish most frequently:
- If you plan to fish primarily in South Bay, you’ll need a New York license regardless of the reciprocal agreement
- If you plan to fish mainly in the Inland Sea, Mallett’s Bay, Missisquoi Bay, or “The Gut”, you’ll need a Vermont license
- If you plan to fish in the main lake and tributaries on one specific side, choose the license from that state
- If you plan to fish throughout the lake and its tributaries, you might need both licenses for complete coverage
Other Considerations
Beyond cost and coverage, consider these additional factors when choosing your license:
- Convenience of purchase: Both states offer online purchase options, but you might find one easier to obtain in your area
- Additional permits: Some specialized fishing activities may require additional permits or stamps
- License duration: If you need a multi-year option, Vermont offers a 5-year license
- Fishing in other waters: If you plan to fish in other bodies of water in either state, consider which license gives you more overall value
Lake Champlain Fishing Regulations 2025
When fishing Lake Champlain, you must follow the regulations of the state in whose waters you’re fishing, regardless of which license you hold. These regulations are designed to protect fish populations and ensure sustainable fishing for future generations.
Species-Specific Regulations
Lake Champlain has specific regulations for various fish species. Here are the key regulations for popular species as of 2025:
| Species | New York Waters | Vermont Waters |
|---|---|---|
| Trout and Salmon | 5 fish total (only 2 can be lake trout), 12″ minimum for brown and rainbow trout, 15″ for lake trout, 15″ for salmon | 5 fish total (only 2 can be lake trout), 12″ minimum for brown and rainbow trout, 15″ for lake trout, 15″ for salmon |
| Black Bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth) | 5 fish, 12″ minimum, June 15 – Nov 30 (catch and release only at other times) | 5 fish, 10″ minimum, June 11 – Nov 30 (catch and release only at other times) |
| Northern Pike | 5 fish, 20″ minimum | 5 fish, 20″ minimum |
| Walleye | 3 fish, 18″ minimum, May 1 – March 15 | 3 fish, 18″ minimum, May 1 – March 15 |
| Yellow Perch | 50 fish, no minimum size | 50 fish, no minimum size |
| Crappie | 25 fish, no minimum size | 25 fish, no minimum size |
| Muskellunge | 1 fish, 40″ minimum | 1 fish, 40″ minimum |
Note: These regulations are subject to change. Always check the most current fishing guides from both New York and Vermont before your trip.
Seasonal Considerations
Lake Champlain’s fishing seasons vary by species and location. Some key seasonal considerations include:
- Ice Fishing Season: Generally runs from when ice forms (typically December) through March, subject to ice safety conditions
- Bass Season: Catch-and-release during spring pre-spawn period, with harvest allowed starting in June
- Walleye Season: Closes during their spring spawning run from mid-March through April
- Tributary Regulations: Special regulations often apply to tributaries during spawning seasons for species like salmon and steelhead
For a comprehensive breakdown of seasonal fishing opportunities in northern regions similar to Lake Champlain, check out our Manitoba Fishing Seasons & Dates guide.
Ice Fishing Regulations
Ice fishing is popular on Lake Champlain during winter months, with specific regulations:
- In New York waters: Up to 7 ice fishing lines allowed
- In Vermont waters: Up to 8 ice fishing lines allowed
- In both states: Lines must be attended (in immediate control)
- Shelters: Must be removed by ice-out or specific dates (typically late March)
- Special restrictions apply in some bays and tributaries
Ice fishing provides excellent opportunities for perch, northern pike, walleye, and other species. For more ice fishing information, visit our guide on Winnipeg Fishing which covers similar northern lake ice fishing techniques.
Bait Regulations
Bait regulations are designed to prevent the spread of invasive species and diseases:
- Live Bait: Restrictions on use and transport of live bait vary between states
- Vermont: Generally allows live bait in Lake Champlain, but it must be purchased from certified dealers
- New York: Allows use of certified baitfish in Lake Champlain
- Both States: Prohibit the transport of uncertified baitfish between waters
When using live bait, consult both states’ regulations to ensure compliance, as rules may differ between New York and Vermont waters.
Identifying Where You’re Fishing
One of the challenges of fishing Lake Champlain is knowing exactly which state’s waters you’re in, especially along the boundary areas. This knowledge is essential for following the correct regulations.
Using Official Maps
Both New York and Vermont provide maps showing the lake boundaries and the areas covered by the reciprocal agreement. These maps typically display:
- Blue shaded areas: Main and South Lake portions where either license is valid
- Yellow shaded areas: South Bay and other New York embayments (NY license only)
- Red shaded areas: Inland Sea, Mallett’s Bay, Missisquoi Bay, and “The Gut” (VT license only)
The most current maps can be found in each state’s fishing regulations guide or on their respective websites.
Key Landmarks and Boundary Points
The reciprocal agreement defines specific landmarks that mark the boundary:
- The line begins on the north shore of the Poultney River where it empties into East Bay
- Continues north along the New York shore to the old Rutland Railroad fill on Colchester Point
- Follows the western side of the old Rutland Railroad fill to Allen Point on Grand Isle
- Continues northerly along the western shore of Grand Isle to Tromp Point
- Crosses “The Gut” to Bow and Arrow Point
- Follows the western shore of North Hero to Pelots Point
- Crosses the Alburg passage to the Point of the Tongue
- Continues along the western shore of the Alburg peninsula to the US-Canada border
When crossing tributaries, the boundary line proceeds from the downstream-most point of land on one side to the downstream-most point on the other side.
Digital Resources
Modern technology can help you identify where you’re fishing:
- GPS Units: Many fishing-specific GPS units display state boundaries on Lake Champlain
- Smartphone Apps: Several fishing apps provide real-time location information relative to state boundaries
- Online Interactive Maps: Both New York and Vermont offer interactive mapping tools on their websites
For the most accurate information, we recommend using the Official Lake Champlain Fishing Map which shows precise boundary locations.
Conservation Efforts and License Contributions
Your fishing license purchase does more than just give you legal permission to fish. License fees directly fund conservation efforts and fisheries management programs that preserve Lake Champlain’s aquatic ecosystem.
How License Fees Support Conservation
When you purchase a fishing license for Lake Champlain, your money supports:
- Fishery management programs: Including fish stocking, habitat improvement, and population assessments
- Research initiatives: Studying fish populations, water quality, and invasive species impacts
- Access improvements: Maintaining and developing public access sites, boat launches, and fishing piers
- Education programs: Teaching sustainable fishing practices and aquatic stewardship
- Law enforcement: Supporting conservation officers who ensure regulations are followed
In 2024, New York and Vermont collectively invested over $5 million from license sales into Lake Champlain conservation efforts, demonstrating the direct impact of your license purchase.
Current Restoration Efforts
Lake Champlain has benefited from several major restoration projects funded in part by license fees:
- Lake Trout Restoration: Lake trout were extirpated from Lake Champlain by the late 1800s but have been successfully reestablished through management efforts
- Landlocked Atlantic Salmon Recovery: Ongoing efforts have improved salmon populations after their decline due to sea lamprey and habitat issues
- Sea Lamprey Control: Collaborative programs have reduced the impact of this invasive parasitic species on game fish
- Habitat Improvement: Projects focusing on tributary spawning habitat and shoreline restoration
For more information on fishing conservation efforts in the region, check out our article on Free Fishing Days which explains how these special events promote conservation awareness.
Environmental Monitoring
Both New York and Vermont maintain ongoing monitoring programs for Lake Champlain’s ecosystem health:
- Water Quality Testing: Regular monitoring for pollutants, nutrients, and clarity
- Mercury Monitoring: Testing fish for mercury contamination to establish consumption advisories
- Invasive Species Surveillance: Monitoring for new invasive threats and managing existing invasions
- Climate Change Impacts: Studying how warming waters affect fish populations and spawning
The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources continues to study mercury concentrations in Lake Champlain’s fish to determine safe consumption levels. Between 2011-2017, there was an uptick in mercury concentrations that researchers are investigating to determine the cause.
Always check current fish consumption advisories before keeping fish for consumption from Lake Champlain.
Conclusion
Navigating the fishing license requirements for Lake Champlain doesn’t have to be complicated. Thanks to the reciprocal agreement between New York and Vermont, anglers can enjoy most of this magnificent lake with just one license, though understanding the boundaries and exceptions is crucial for legal fishing.
When deciding which license to purchase, consider:
- Where you plan to fish most frequently
- The cost differences between NY and VT licenses
- Your residency status and age
- How long you plan to fish
- Whether you’ll be fishing in restricted areas requiring a specific state’s license
Remember that regardless of which license you hold, you must follow the fishing regulations of the state in whose waters you’re fishing. This includes seasons, size limits, and daily catch limits.
By understanding and following these guidelines, you’ll not only ensure a legal fishing experience but also contribute to the conservation efforts that keep Lake Champlain’s fishery healthy for future generations.
For more information on fishing licenses and regulations across North America, visit TeenFish.com for comprehensive guides, tips, and resources to enhance your fishing adventures.
