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

Planning a fishing trip to the beautiful Mountain State? Before you cast your line into West Virginia’s pristine rivers and lakes, it’s crucial to know the rules. One of the most common questions anglers ask is about the age requirement for a fishing license.

So, what’s the magic number? The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) keeps it simple: anyone age 15 or older needs a valid fishing license to fish legally. This applies to both residents and out-of-state visitors.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about West Virginia’s fishing license age rules for 2025, including who is exempt and how to get your license squared away.

What is the Magic Number? WV’s Fishing License Age Requirement

In West Virginia, the rule is straightforward. If you are 15 years old or have passed your 15th birthday, you must purchase and carry a fishing license along with a valid form of ID.

• Youth Anglers (15-17): Once a teenager turns 15, they are officially required to have their own fishing license. A great option for this age group is the resident Junior Sportsman License (Class XJ), which is a budget-friendly combo license covering fishing, hunting, and trapping.
• Adults (18-64): All adults in this age range must have a standard resident or non-resident fishing license.
• Seniors (65+): The requirements for seniors vary based on their birth date, which we’ll cover in the exemptions section below.

Are There Any Exceptions? Fishing License Exemptions in WV

While the age-15 rule is the standard, West Virginia offers several exemptions for specific groups of people. Here’s a quick rundown of who can fish without a license.

Youth Anglers Under 15

Good news for families! Children under the age of 15, whether they are residents or not, can fish for free without needing a license or a trout stamp. This makes it easy and affordable to introduce kids to the joys of fishing.

Senior Residents

The rules for senior anglers depend on their date of birth:

• Seniors Born Before January 1, 2012: If you are a resident who turned 65 before this date, you are exempt from needing a license. Just be sure to carry your WV driver’s license or a state-issued photo ID with you.
• Seniors Born After January 1, 2012: Residents who turned 65 after this date are required to have a license. The state offers a Senior Lifetime License (Class XS) that covers them for good.

Other Exemptions

West Virginia also provides exemptions for the following groups, though most will need to carry specific documentation to prove their status:

• Resident Landowners: You can fish on your own private property without a license. This also applies to your resident children and tenants.
• Military on Leave: West Virginia residents who are on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and are on leave can fish without a license by carrying their leave papers. For information on licenses for out-of-state visitors, check out this guide on West Virginia Non-Resident Fishing Licenses.
• Disabled Individuals: The state provides exemptions for residents who are totally blind, certain resident veterans with a 100% service-connected disability, and former prisoners of war.

Planning to Catch Trout? Don’t Forget the Trout Stamp

If you’re hoping to catch and keep trout, you’ll need a Trout Stamp (Class O) in addition to your regular fishing license. This stamp funds the WVDNR’s excellent trout stocking program.

However, the same exemptions generally apply. You do not need a trout stamp if you are under 15, a resident who turned 65 before January 1, 2012, or fall into one of the other exempt categories.

How to Get Your West Virginia Fishing License

Getting your license is quick and easy, with a few convenient options available.

1. Online: The fastest way is to purchase your license through the WVDNR’s official online portal. You can buy and print it from home in minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can learn more about how to get emergency or last-minute fishing licenses online.
2. Authorized Agents: Over 300 license agents are located across the state, including bait and tackle shops, convenience stores, and major retailers.
3. WVDNR Offices: You can also buy a license in person at any WVDNR district office.

By purchasing a license, you’re not just following the law—you’re directly contributing to the conservation efforts that keep West Virginia’s fisheries healthy and thriving for generations to come.