Purchase Your 2021 Fishing License Online

7-year-old Julia Moore holds a fluke that was caught in Sandy Hook Bay, New Jersey.

Before heading out to make your first casts of 2021, make sure to purchase or renew your fishing license. It’s a quick process, as states allow anglers to purchase a fishing license online.

Submit your fish photos using the Instagram hashtag #OnTheWaterMagazine, or email them to feedback@onthewater.com.

In most cases, states will ask for a driver’s license number, date of birth, address, phone number, and several questions regarding physical characteristics.

A fishing license usually expires on Dec. 31 regardless of when it was purchased.

Some states have fishing reciprocity agreements – meaning an angler can fish in another state as long as they have a valid license. For example, Connecticut has a fishing reciprocity agreement with Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York. Make sure to check the reciprocity rules in your state.

Also, reduced rates are sometimes given to active military members, youth, seniors, students, and other instances. For more information regarding fishing license rates, rules, and regulations, visit your state’s website. 

Anglers without a fishing license could face fines from their state environmental police.

Buy Your Fishing License Online

Connecticut

Maine

Massachusetts

New Hampshire

New Jersey

New York

Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

Vermont

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