Michigan’s 11,000+ inland lakes, 36,000 miles of streams, and Great Lakes coastline make it one of America’s premier fishing destinations. Here’s your complete 2026 guide.
Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), updated for 2026.
Who Needs a Michigan Fishing License?
Anyone aged 17 and older must have a valid fishing license. A $1 surcharge is added to annual licenses.
Exemptions — Who Fishes for Free
- Children 16 and under — No license required (optional $2 youth license available)
- Free Fishing Weekends — Two per year (see below)
- Active-duty military on leave — Check DNR for current exemptions
2026 Michigan Fishing License Fees
Michigan licenses are valid April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027.
Resident Licenses
| License Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual Fishing License (17+) | $26.00 + $1 surcharge |
| Senior Annual License (65+ or legally blind) | $11.00 + $1 surcharge |
| Daily Fishing License (24-hour) | $10.00 |
| Optional Youth License (16 and under) | $2.00 |
Source: Michigan DNR, current as of March 2026.
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual Fishing License (17+) | $76.00 + $1 surcharge |
| Daily Fishing License (24-hour) | $10.00 |
Source: Michigan DNR, current as of March 2026.
2026 Free Fishing Weekends
Michigan offers two Free Fishing Weekends — no license needed for anyone:
| Weekend | Dates | Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | February 14–15, 2026 | Recreation Passport waived at state parks |
| Summer | June 13–14, 2026 | Recreation Passport waived at state parks |
All fishing regulations still apply. The DNR also waives the Recreation Passport for vehicle entry to state parks and DNR boat launches on these weekends.
How to Buy Your Michigan Fishing License
1. Online
Visit Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or use the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.
2. In-Person
Available at licensed retailers across Michigan, including Walmart, Meijer, and bait shops.
3. By Phone
Contact DNR at (517) 284-6057.
Important: Michigan licenses run April 1 – March 31, not calendar year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a basic Michigan fishing license?
Resident annual: $27 (includes $1 surcharge). Non-resident: $77. Daily license: $10 for everyone.
Do kids need a license?
No. Anglers 16 and under are exempt. An optional $2 youth license is available.
Do seniors get a discount?
Yes. Residents 65+ or legally blind pay $12 (includes surcharge).
When are Free Fishing Weekends?
Feb 14–15 and Jun 13–14, 2026. State park entry also free.
When does my Michigan license expire?
March 31, 2027. Michigan uses an April–March license year.
Related Articles
Lifetime Fishing License ROI — Cost analysis
Guide to Getting Your Michigan Fishing License — Step-by-step guide
Best Fishing Spots in Michigan — Top destinations
How Much is a Fishing License in Ohio? — Neighboring state
Senior Fishing License Fees Across the US — Senior comparison
Military Fishing License Discounts — All 50 states
