How Much is a Fishing License in Minnesota? [2024 Costs & Guide]

Fishing in Minnesota, famously known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” offers a wealth of opportunities for anglers. To enjoy this experience, it’s essential to understand the costs and requirements associated with obtaining a fishing license in 2024. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about fishing licenses in Minnesota, including costs, exemptions, and where to purchase them.

Overview of Fishing License Costs

Resident Fishing License Costs

Minnesota residents have several options when it comes to fishing licenses. Below is a table summarizing the different types of licenses available and their costs:

License Type	Individual Cost	Married Couple Cost
Regular Annual Fishing	$25	$40
Conservation Annual Fishing (Half Limits)	$17	$27
Sports (Fishing + Small Game Hunting)	$41	$57
Super Sports (Fishing, Hunting, Trout Stamp)	$100	$126
24-Hour	$12	–
72-Hour	$14	–
3-Year	$71	–

For residents, annual licenses provide the best value, while short-term licenses are ideal for infrequent anglers.

Lifetime Licenses

Minnesota also offers lifetime licenses, which are a cost-effective option for avid anglers. The fees are based on the buyer’s age:

Age Group	Fishing Cost	Fishing & Hunting Cost
0-3 years	$344	$522
4-15 years	$469	$710
16-50 years	$574	$927
51+ years	$379	$603

Lifetime licenses allow anglers to fish for life, making them an excellent investment for families.

Non-Resident Fishing License Costs

Non-residents are also required to obtain a fishing license. Below is a summary of the costs for non-resident licenses:

License Type	Cost
Annual Non-Resident	$51
Annual Family (Couple + Kids)	$68
24-Hour	$14
72-Hour	$37
4-Day Married Couple	$54

Non-residents must purchase a license regardless of age, except for those under 16 if accompanied by a licensed adult.

Who Needs a Fishing License?

To legally fish in Minnesota, all residents aged 16 to 89 must possess a valid fishing license unless they qualify for an exemption. Non-residents aged 16 and older must also have a license. The following individuals are exempt from needing a fishing license:

• Residents under 16 years old
• Residents 90 years and older
• Residents fishing on their own legally-owned land for private use
• Anyone fishing in a Minnesota State Park (for most species)

Where to Buy a Minnesota Fishing License

You can purchase a Minnesota fishing license through various channels:

• Online: Visit the Minnesota DNR website for online purchases.
• By Phone: Call 1-888-665-4236 to buy a license over the phone.
• In-Person: Purchase licenses at any DNR license agent location, such as sporting goods stores and convenience stores.

Important Note: Online and phone purchases may incur an additional convenience fee of 3%, and licenses purchased by mail have a $1.50 handling fee.

Important Information

• Validity: Minnesota fishing licenses are valid for one year, from March 1 to the last day of February of the following year.
• Revenue: Proceeds from fishing license sales contribute to the Game and Fish Fund, which supports fish and wildlife initiatives in the state.
• Regulations: It is crucial to review the Minnesota Fishing Regulations booklet for limits, seasons, and other rules before fishing.

Conclusion

Obtaining a fishing license in Minnesota is a straightforward process, with various options available for both residents and non-residents. With costs that are competitive with neighboring states and a commitment to sustainable fishing practices, Minnesota provides a fantastic environment for anglers. Whether you are a seasoned fisherman or a novice, securing your license is the first step toward enjoying the state’s abundant fishing opportunities. So, gear up, grab your license, and experience world-class angling in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes!”