What Age Do You Need a Fishing License in West Virginia?

Fishing in West Virginia is a favorite activity for both residents and visitors, offering a variety of fish species and beautiful, natural surroundings. Whether you’re planning to fish in one of the state’s serene mountain streams, scenic rivers, or wide lakes, it is important to be aware of the state’s fishing license requirements. These regulations are designed to protect the environment and ensure sustainable fishing practices. One of the first steps before you can fish legally is to understand what age group is required to obtain a fishing license in West Virginia.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the age-based fishing license requirements, the types of licenses available, the costs involved, how to acquire your fishing license, and more. Whether you’re a local angler or visiting from out of state, this article will ensure you’re equipped with all the information you need.

Age-Based Fishing License Requirements in West Virginia

West Virginia’s fishing regulations are designed to balance conservation efforts with the accessibility of fishing to all age groups. Below is a detailed breakdown of the age-based fishing license requirements:

1. Children Under 15 Years Old – License Exemption

Age Requirement: No fishing license is required
Children under the age of 15 are not required to obtain a fishing license in West Virginia. This applies to both residents and non-residents. It’s a fantastic opportunity for families to introduce young anglers to the joys of fishing, without the burden of needing a license.

Special Days for Kids: West Virginia also celebrates Free Fishing Days (typically in June each year, with specific dates for 2025 being June 7th and 8th), where both adults and children can fish without needing a license. This event provides an excellent opportunity for families to spend quality time together while enjoying the state’s fishing resources.
Learn more about Free Fishing Days here.

2. Teens Aged 15-17 – Junior Lifetime License

Age Requirement: Fishing license required
Teens aged 15 to 17 are required to have a fishing license. The state of West Virginia offers the Junior Lifetime License, which is available for a one-time fee of $16. This license allows fishing privileges until the holder turns 18.

Benefits of the Junior Lifetime License:
Supports wildlife conservation programs.
Teaches responsibility through ownership of a license.
Exempts the holder from needing a trout stamp, a separate permit required for fishing in stocked trout waters.
The Junior Lifetime License is a cost-effective option for young anglers who plan to continue fishing as they grow older.
More details on the Junior Lifetime License can be found here.

3. Adults Aged 18-64 – Standard Fishing Licenses

Age Requirement: Fishing license required
Adults aged 18 to 64 are required to carry a fishing license. Several options are available depending on your residency status and the length of your stay:

Annual Resident License: $37
This is the standard fishing license for residents of West Virginia. It covers all freshwater fishing within the state.
Annual Non-Resident License: $55
Non-residents of West Virginia will need to purchase this license to fish legally in the state’s waters.
3-Day Tourist License: $21
Ideal for vacationers, this license is valid for three consecutive days of fishing. It provides a great option for visitors who want to enjoy West Virginia’s fishing opportunities without committing to a full annual license.
Lifetime License: $315
This one-time payment grants lifetime fishing privileges for West Virginia residents. This license option is perfect for anglers who fish regularly or intend to stay in the state long-term. For more information on adult licenses, visit the West Virginia DNR Fishing License Page.

4. Seniors 65 and Older – Senior Fishing License

Age Requirement: Fishing license required (with exceptions)
Seniors aged 65 and older benefit from special licensing provisions, depending on when they were born:

Seniors Born Before January 1, 2012:
Seniors born before January 1, 2012, can fish for free with a valid West Virginia ID.
Seniors Born After January 1, 2012:
Seniors who reach the age of 65 after 2012 are required to obtain a Senior Lifetime License, which costs $75 and never expires. This one-time fee provides lifelong fishing privileges in West Virginia.
Learn more about Senior Fishing Licenses here.

Types of Fishing Licenses Available in West Virginia

West Virginia offers a variety of fishing licenses to cater to different needs. Below is a breakdown of the most common license types available:

Youth Lifetime License

Age Group: 15-17
Cost: $16
Includes: Trout fishing privileges
Other Features: Lifetime fishing privileges until the age of 18, exempt from trout stamp requirement.

Annual Resident License

Age Group: 18-64
Cost: $37
Includes: Fishing privileges for all freshwater fishing in West Virginia.

Annual Non-Resident License

Age Group: 18-64
Cost: $55
Includes: Fishing privileges for non-residents in all freshwater areas.

3-Day Tourist License

Age Group: All ages
Cost: $21
Includes: Three consecutive days of fishing privileges, ideal for short-term visitors to the state.

Lifetime License

Age Group: 18+
Cost: $315
Includes: Lifetime fishing privileges, a great option for regular anglers.

Conservation/Law Enforcement Stamp

Age Group: All anglers
Cost: $5
Includes: Supports conservation efforts and law enforcement in the state.

Military and Resident Retiree License

Age Group: 18+
Cost: $10
Includes: Available to active duty military personnel and honorably discharged veterans.
Check out Military License Details here.

How to Obtain a Fishing License in West Virginia

Obtaining a fishing license in West Virginia is a simple process. The state offers several convenient methods to obtain a license:

1. Online Portal

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) offers a user-friendly online portal where you can purchase licenses 24/7. Once you purchase your license, you can store a digital copy on your mobile device via Apple Wallet or Google Pay. Additionally, if you lose your license, you can easily reprint it through the portal.
Visit the Online License Portal

2. Mobile App

The official West Virginia Outdoors app offers anglers access to real-time fishing regulation updates, stocking schedules, and offline access to your license documents. This app is a great tool for staying informed about the latest changes in fishing laws and regulations.
Download the WV Outdoors App

3. In-Person Vendors

There are over 300 in-person vendors across the state where you can purchase your fishing license. These include locations such as:

Cabela’s (Triadelphia)
Gander Outdoors (Barboursville)
County Clerk Offices (All 55 counties)
Find an In-Person Vendor

4. Required Documentation

Residents: Must provide a driver’s license and Social Security Number.
Non-Residents: Must provide a government-issued photo ID.
Seniors: Must provide a birth certificate for age verification.

Conservation and Funding Impact of Your Fishing License

Purchasing a fishing license in West Virginia is more than just a legal requirement; it directly contributes to the conservation of the state’s natural resources. Here’s how your fees are used:

Fish Stocking: Over 300,000 trout are stocked annually across 60 different streams in the state.
Habitat Restoration: Recent projects have focused on habitat restoration in places like the Elk River and Summersville Lake.
Youth Programs: The state runs a number of programs that support youth anglers, such as offering free rod and reel loans at 28 state parks.
Pollution Control: Funds are used for pollution control efforts, including mercury monitoring in Appalachian waterways.
Learn more about Conservation Efforts

Special Cases and Exceptions to Fishing License Requirements

In addition to the general age-based requirements, there are some special cases where fishing licenses may not be required, or additional permits may be needed:

Mentored Youth Fishing

Adults who are helping unlicensed children under 15 years old fish can do so with either a valid fishing license or a Free Mentor Permit, which can be obtained at registration stations.

Border Waters

Ohio River: There is a reciprocal fishing agreement with Ohio. Anglers will need a West Virginia fishing license and an Ohio boundary permit.
Potomac River: Anglers fishing south of Harpers Ferry will need a Maryland fishing license.

Tournament Fishing

Anglers aged 15 and above who are participating in fishing tournaments must have a valid fishing license along with an event-specific permit from the WVDNR. A catch documentation kit may also be required for certain events.

Conclusion: Cast Responsibly, Preserve Proudly

Whether you’re introducing a child to fishing, casting your line for the first time, or pursuing a personal best catch, having the proper fishing license is essential for protecting West Virginia’s rich natural resources. By understanding the state’s fishing license requirements, you contribute to preserving the Mountain State’s aquatic treasures for future generations.

Remember to check for updates, especially around seasonal events like Free Fishing Days, and always ensure that you’re fishing in compliance with the law. Happy fishing, and be sure to respect the environment every time you cast your line!

For further information on West Virginia’s fishing regulations, including updates for 2025, visit the official WVDNR Fishing Page.