Missouri calls them “fishing permits” instead of licenses, and the state offers some of the most affordable fishing in the country — just $14 per year for residents. With world-class trout fishing at Bennett Spring, Roaring River, and Montauk state parks, plus outstanding bass and catfish in the Ozarks, Missouri delivers exceptional value.
New for 2026: a modest fee increase (up from $13) and a new non-resident trout permit at $40.
Source: Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), updated for 2026 season.
Who Needs a Fishing Permit in Missouri?
Anyone 16 years of age or older must have a valid fishing permit to fish in Missouri.
Exemptions (No Permit Required)
- Children under 16 — no permit needed
- Missouri residents on their own property — can fish in privately owned ponds without a permit
- Anglers on Free Fishing Days (see below)
- Residents of certain institutions — Veterans Administration and state correctional facilities
Note: Missouri does not use the term “license” — they call it a fishing permit. Functionally, it’s the same thing.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Missouri Fishing Permit
Step 1: Determine Your Residency Status
Missouri Resident: Must have maintained permanent residency in Missouri for at least 6 months immediately before purchasing a permit.
Non-Resident: Anyone who does not meet the 6-month residency requirement.
Step 2: Choose Your Permit Type
Resident Permits
| Permit Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual Fishing Permit (16+) | $14.00 |
| Daily Fishing Permit | $9.00 |
| Trout Permit (required for trout areas) | $12.00 |
| Youth Trout Permit (15 and under) | $6.00 |
| Lifetime Fishing Permit | $460.00 |
Non-Resident Permits
| Permit Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual Fishing Permit | $57.00 |
| Daily Fishing Permit | $9.00 |
| Trout Permit (required for trout areas) | $40.00 |
Source: MDC, effective March 1, 2026. Fees reflect $1 increase for resident annual and new NR trout permit.
Step 3: Determine If You Need a Trout Permit
A trout permit is required in addition to your fishing permit if you fish in:
- Designated trout parks (Bennett Spring, Roaring River, Montauk, Maramec Spring)
- Blue ribbon trout streams
- Designated trout management areas
- Any water where you possess trout
| Scenario | Permits Needed |
|---|---|
| Bass fishing on Lake of the Ozarks | Fishing permit only |
| Trout fishing at Bennett Spring | Fishing permit + trout permit |
| Catfishing on the Missouri River | Fishing permit only |
| Trout fishing on Current River (trout area) | Fishing permit + trout permit |
Step 4: Purchase Your Permit
Option 1: Online (Recommended)
Visit mdc.mo.gov/permits — available 24/7.
Option 2: By Phone
Call 573-522-0107.
Option 3: MDC Mobile App
MO Hunting app (iOS/Android) — purchase and store permits digitally.
Option 4: In Person
- MDC regional offices and nature centers
- Authorized agents — sporting goods stores, bait shops, convenience stores
- Walmart and other major retailers
Step 5: Carry Your Permit
You must carry your permit while fishing and show it to any conservation agent upon request. Digital copies on the MO Hunting app are accepted.
Missouri Free Fishing Days 2026
Missouri offers multiple free fishing opportunities in 2026:
| Event | Date(s) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide Free Fishing Days | June 6–7, 2026 | All Missouri residents — no permit needed |
| Veterans Free Fishing Day | April 18, 2026 | Veterans and active-duty military |
| Women’s Free Fishing Day | September 26, 2026 | Female anglers |
During statewide free fishing days, no fishing permit, trout permit, or daily trout tag is needed. All other regulations apply.
Where to Fish in Missouri
Trout (Requires Trout Permit)
| Location | Type |
|---|---|
| Bennett Spring State Park | Blue ribbon spring creek |
| Roaring River State Park | Ozarks spring creek |
| Montauk State Park | Mountain spring creek |
| Maramec Spring Park | Private park with stocked trout |
| Current River (upper) | Wild and Scenic River — brown/rainbow trout |
| North Fork of the White River | Trophy brown trout |
Bass
| Location | Species |
|---|---|
| Lake of the Ozarks | Largemouth, smallmouth, spotted bass |
| Table Rock Lake | Smallmouth, largemouth, spotted bass |
| Bull Shoals Lake | Smallmouth bass (excellent) |
| Stockton Lake | Largemouth and walleye |
| Mark Twain Lake | Largemouth, crappie |
Catfish
| Location | Type |
|---|---|
| Missouri River | Blue cats, flatheads (trophy) |
| Mississippi River | Channel cats, blue cats |
| Osage River | Blue cats, channel cats |
| Lake of the Ozarks | Channel cats |
Missouri Fishing Regulations Quick Reference
| Species | Daily Limit | Length Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | 6 | 12″ (varies by lake) |
| Smallmouth Bass | 6 | 12″ (varies by lake) |
| Channel Catfish | 10 | None |
| Blue Catfish | 10 | None |
| Flathead Catfish | 5 | 15″ |
| Crappie | 30 (combined) | None |
| Bluegill/Sunfish | 30 (combined) | None |
| Walleye/Sauger | 4 (combined) | 15″ walleye / 12″ sauger |
| Trout (trout areas) | 4 | None (varies by area) |
Penalties for Fishing Without a Permit
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Fishing without a valid permit | Fine of $100+ |
| Trout fishing without trout permit | Fine + potential permit revocation |
| Exceeding bag limits | Fine + fish seizure |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Missouri fishing permit?
Residents pay $14.00 per year (up from $13 in 2025). Non-residents pay $57.00. Daily permits are $9.00 for anyone.
Do I need a trout permit in Missouri?
Yes — if you fish in designated trout parks, blue ribbon trout streams, or any designated trout management area. Resident trout permit is $12; non-resident is $40 (new for 2026).
When are Missouri’s free fishing days?
June 6–7, 2026 (statewide). Additional special events: Veterans Day (April 18) and Women’s Day (September 26) at Bennett Spring State Park.
Can I fish on private property without a permit?
Missouri residents can fish in privately owned ponds on their own property without a permit. Non-residents and anyone fishing on someone else’s private property need a permit.
Why does Missouri call it a “permit” instead of a “license”?
Missouri Department of Conservation has traditionally used the term “permit” for fishing and hunting authorizations. Functionally, it’s identical to a fishing license in other states.
Related Resources
Lifetime Fishing License ROI: When Does It Make Financial Sense?
How Much Is a Fishing License in Missouri?
Best Fishing Spots in Missouri
Trout Fishing License Requirements by State
