How to Get a Fishing License in Minnesota 2024

Fishing is a cherished pastime in Minnesota, known for its vast network of lakes, rivers, and streams. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, obtaining a fishing license is essential for enjoying the state’s rich fishing opportunities legally and responsibly. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to get a fishing license in Minnesota for the 2024 season, including license types, costs, purchasing methods, and important regulations.

Who Needs a Fishing License in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, anyone aged 16 to 89 must possess a valid fishing license to fish legally, unless an exemption applies. Non-residents are also required to have a license. However, children under 16 can fish for free when accompanied by a licensed adult. Certain groups are exempt from needing a fishing license, including:

• Residents younger than 16
• Residents aged 90 and older
• Minnesota residents enlisted in the U.S. Armed Forces on leave (must carry leave papers)
• In-patients of a U.S. Veterans Administration hospital
• Residents in a Minnesota nursing home or care facility

For more detailed information on who needs a fishing license, visit the Minnesota DNR Fishing Regulations page.

Types of Fishing Licenses in Minnesota

Minnesota offers a variety of fishing licenses to cater to the diverse needs of anglers:

1. Individual Angling License: Allows one person to fish.
2. Combination Angling License: Permits a married couple to fish individually or together.
3. Individual Sports License: Grants one person the right to hunt small game and fish.
4. Combination Sports License: Enables one spouse to hunt small game and fish, while the other spouse can only fish.
5. Non-resident Individual Angling License: Allows non-residents to fish anytime during the license year in Minnesota.
6. Lifetime Fishing License: Available for both residents and non-residents, with fees varying based on age and residency status.
7. Short-term licenses: Offer options for 24-hour, 72-hour, 7-day, and 14-day fishing periods.

For a complete overview of fishing licenses, visit the Minnesota DNR Fishing Licenses page.

License Costs

The cost of fishing licenses in Minnesota varies based on the type and duration of the license. The following table outlines the current fees for different license categories:

License Type	Resident Fee	Non-Resident Fee
Individual Angling (Annual)	$25	$51
Combination Angling (Annual)	$40	N/A
Individual Sports (Annual)	$41	N/A
Combination Sports (Annual)	$57	N/A
Lifetime License (0-3 years)	$344	$821
Lifetime License (4-15 years)	$469	$1,046
Lifetime License (16-50 years)	$574	$1,191
Lifetime License (51+ years)	$379	$794
24-Hour License	$12	$14
72-Hour License	$14	$43
7-Day License	N/A	$43
14-Day License (Married Couple)	N/A	$54
Family License	N/A	$68
Youth License (16-17 years)	$5	$6
Trout Stamp	$11	$11

For the most current fees and any updates, check the Minnesota DNR Online License Sales page.

Purchasing Methods

Obtaining a fishing license in Minnesota is a straightforward process. You can purchase your license through the following methods:

1. Online: Visit the Minnesota DNR Online License Sales to purchase and print your license instantly.
2. By Phone: Call 1-888-665-4236 (1-MN-LICENSE) to buy your license over the phone.
3. In Person: Licenses can be purchased at DNR offices, local retailers such as Walmart, hardware stores, and bait and tackle shops.

When purchasing your license, be prepared to provide personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and proof of residency (if applicable). It’s important to carry your license with you while fishing or traveling from an area where you were fishing.

Important Regulations

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable fishing experience in Minnesota, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the state’s fishing regulations. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. License Validity: Fishing licenses are effective from March 1 to the last day of February of the following year.
2. Carrying Your License: Anglers must carry their license while fishing or traveling from an area where they were fishing.
3. Conservation Licenses: Minnesota offers conservation licenses with reduced limits for certain species, such as trout and salmon.
4. Fishing in Minnesota State Parks: A valid fishing license is required to fish in Minnesota State Parks.
5. Exemptions: Certain groups, such as residents younger than 16, residents 90 and older, and Minnesota residents enlisted in the U.S. Armed Forces on leave, do not need a fishing license.

For a complete list of fishing regulations, visit the Minnesota DNR Fishing Regulations page.

Conservation Efforts

By purchasing a fishing license in Minnesota, you actively contribute to the state’s conservation initiatives, habitat restoration, and public access to fishing opportunities. The revenue generated from license sales goes into the Game and Fish Fund, which is dedicated to fish, wildlife, law enforcement, and other outdoor-related activities.

The Minnesota DNR works diligently to ensure sustainable fishing practices and healthy fish populations. They conduct regular surveys, stock fish in lakes and rivers, and enforce regulations to protect the state’s aquatic resources.

Conclusion

Obtaining a fishing license in Minnesota is a straightforward process that supports the state’s conservation efforts and ensures sustainable fishing practices. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, make sure to get your license before heading out to enjoy the rich fishing heritage of the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.”

For more detailed information and to purchase your license, visit the Minnesota DNR Fishing Licenses page.