Virginia boasts 176,000 acres of public lakes and about 27,300 miles of streams with freshwater fish; this makes it a dream destination for anglers due to its unique and diverse angling opportunities. You can also experience saltwater fishing from the Atlantic ocean. Let’s learn about ‘Virginia Fishing License’.
Virginia Fishing License
There are different ways for residents and non-residents to acquire a Fishing license in Virginia. You can purchase it via the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries site, phone call, or in-person walk-in to licensed agents in Virginia.
It is estimated that Virginia attracts about 80,000 anglers annually. You’ll never run out of fish because the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries regularly stock up on trout, especially throughout fall and spring.
As an angler, it is exciting that Virginia’s lakes, streams, and rivers are home to over 30 freshwater fish species. You’ll have a lot of fun fishing; either you go the “fish and release” way or do it for dinner; you never know the fish species you’ll pull out of the water.
The Virginia Scenic River is well known for its stretched 815miles of fishing areas, and with the available streams, ponds, and 22 state rivers, you have unlimited sites to choose your fishing spot. It is no doubt Virginia should be top of your most preferred fishing states.
Maybe you are wondering how to get a fishing license in Virginia, or who doesn’t need one to enjoy fishing in the area; well, this article is for you.
How To Get a Virginia Fishing License?
There are three primary ways of purchasing a fishing license in Virginia, and the processes are for both residents and non-residents, let’s take a look at how to do it below:-
1. Walk-ins to licensed agents
There are numerous licensed agents throughout Virginia; you need to visit their offices and inquire about the license type and the prices.
You’ll be directed on how to buy one, and then you are good to go.
2. Phone call
Are you feeling a little lazy to visit an agent? You don’t have to worry. You can search online for the numbers to call to purchase a fishing license in Virginia, call and they will direct you on how to purchase your fishing license.
3. Website
You can also go to the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website to purchase your fishing license, and the steps are reasonably straightforward.
- Visit the department’s website
- Go to the “Buy Online Now” icon
- Chose the “licenses & Permits” option
- Fill in the required information
- Add to the cart your preferred license
- Enter your billing information
- Purchase your license
After buying your license, you will receive a confirmation email with your details. Then, you can now print your fishing license.
Who Requires a License in Virginia?
Local and non-local anglers above the age of 16 will require a fishing license in Virginia. However, your fishing license depends on your fishing location and the type of catch that interests you.
For residents, you will require the following licenses:-
- A state or countrywide license for freshwater fishing
- A trout license for persons who are interested in trout fishing
- A national forest stamp for individuals interested in fishing in national forests like Jefferson forest or George Washington forest
Non-residents will need the below licenses:-
- You will choose a freshwater fishing license depending on your fishing days. You will need either a 5-day license, a daily one, or an annual fishing license
- If you are interested in trout fishing, you will need an extra non-resident trout fishing license
- You will also need a national forest stamp if you want to fish in the national forest
However, there are a few fishing license exemptions in Virginia.
Who Is Exempted From Getting A Licence in Virginia?
The below persons do not need a fishing license to fish in particular areas:-
- Any legally blind person is exempted from getting a fishing license
- Any non-local and is below the age of 12 is also exempted
- A guest fishing in a private pond does non need a license
- Landowners’ tenants who have been permitted in writing to fish in certain areas
- If you are a resident under 16 years, you do not require a license
Conclusion
Virginia is an angler’s dream destination due to easy access to fresh and saltwater fishing sites. With 176,000 acres of public lakes, 27,300 miles of streams with plenty of fish, and over 30 freshwater fish species, you will never run out of fish.
It is now easy to get yourself a fishing license. You can choose to purchase your fishing license from the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website, visit a licensed agent or make a call to the relevant authority.
FAQ
- Can you fish without a license in Virginia right now?
You’ll need a fish license to fish in Virginia if you are a resident aged 16 and above
- What is the fine for fishing without a license in Virginia?
It can go up to $500
- Where can I get a Virginia fishing license?
You can buy it from licensed agents
