Idaho is home to a variety of lakes, streams, and rivers. Anglers can fish for different kinds of fish from more than 3,000 lake sites that are located across Idaho. However, in order to fish in Idaho, you must possess a valid fishing license.
Imagine a situation where everyone goes fishing without regulations. In a matter of time, there would be fewer fish to hunt for, and perhaps, the whole fish population in the waters would be depleted and extinct.
Buying a fishing license is one-way anglers can contribute to maintaining a healthy fish population and its replenishment. These regulations are intended to help keep rivers, lakes, and streams in their natural state.
Who can apply for a fishing license?
In Idaho, anyone between the ages of 14 and 18 is expected to have a fishing license before they can be permitted on a fishing trip. Resident minors under 14 do not need to have their own permit, but each catch made is counted towards the adult’s catch limit. Nonresident minors under 14 require an adult as a guardian or they must buy a separate permit.
What is a fishing license?
A fishing license is an authorized permit issued by the government or its agencies to an individual or group of individuals to fish in specified water locations. The holder of the license has the legal backing of the government to embark on fishing tours. Those who fish without a license are called “illegal fishermen,” and they’re prone to government arrest.
Where to purchase a fishing license
Fishing licenses can be purchased from different locations. You can purchase them from
- An authorized local vendor
- The regional state offices where you live
- Order online at Go Outdoors Idaho (https://idfg.idaho.gov/license/applications)
- Apply through a phone call to 1-800-554-8685.
Purchases made online or by phone incur a processing fee. You can find vendors by inserting your zip code when you visit the Go Outdoors Idaho website here: https://license.gooutdoorsidaho.com/Licensing/LocateAgent.aspx.
Types of fishing licenses
- Daily fishing license.
- A three-year-long fishing license
- Lifetime opportunity fishing license
- Hunting and fishing licenses that are combo licenses
- nonresident fishing license
What fishing license options are available?
Resident freshwater fishing fees are exceptionally reasonable, starting at $30.50 for an adult or $25.75 with Price Lock. An annual permit is very affordable at $73.75, and a daily permit can be purchased for just under $14 per day, or just under $13 if you have a price lock.
Residents who are between the ages of 14 and 17 can get their fishing license for $16 or $13.73 on price lock. You can obtain a three-year fish for $37.75.
Serving uniformed men who maintain Idaho as their state of residence can purchase a special license for $20.50 or $17.50 on price lock whenever they are on leave. People in this category are mandated to present an LES statement at the time of purchase.
Residents who are disabled are entitled to receive a discount for an annual fishing license of $5.
The lifetime license fees for residents are listed below
- Infants between the ages of 0 and 1 can get a lifetime fishing license for $601.75.
- For adults between the ages of 2 and 50, the cost is $841.75.
- For seniors who are 51 years or older, the fee is $481.75.
Nonresidents’ fishing fees
Nonresidents of Idaho can purchase an annual adult fishing license for $108 or get a three-year license for $320.50.
Conclusion
Fishing in Idaho is not free, but getting your fishing license is not tedious. There are four means by which you can obtain your fishing license in Idaho. You can obtain it through authorized license vendors, through the regional state offices, online, or by phone call.
Note that when you apply for your license either online or by phone, it will attract a processing fee, which will be added to your license cost.
There are different types of fishing licenses and their prices vary from one to another. Moreover, how much you pay for a license depends on whether you’re a resident of Idaho or not. Residents usually enjoy discounts on their fishing licenses compared to those who are non-residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a fishing license cost in Idaho?
How much you pay for a fishing license depends largely on whether you’re a resident or not. Also, it depends on your age bracket. Adult residents pay around $30.50; the annual fee is around $73.75.
2. Can I fish in Idaho without obtaining a license?
The answer is absolutely no. You cannot catch fish in Idaho without having a fishing license. Even if you intend to catch and release, you must be a resident of Idaho, and the fish must be released alive without inflicting injuries on it.
3. What is the penalty for fishing in Idaho without a license?
Fishing in Idaho without a license can attract a heavy penalty. If you’re found guilty, you may pay up $1,000 charge or be sentenced to up 6 months in jail.
