Fishing License 2024
Glaucus reply :
A lot of people fish without a fishing license, and unfortunately I personally know quite a few of them. Since a license is technically required in order to fish public waters, just as a valid ID and appropriate age is required to purchase and drink alcohol, would it be possible or even logical for retailers to begin "carding" buyers when they go to purchase fishing supplies, to see if they have a valid license? Just a thought I had. There's a guy who harvests everything he catches, no matter the species or size, from a pond we like to go to, and he's blatantly admitted to not having a license because, to him, it's "stupid" to have to pay for a God given right, so it's been on my mind a lot lately.
BuzzHudson19c reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 11:13 AM, Glaucus said:would it be possible or even logical for retailers to begin "carding" buyers when they go to purchase fishing supplies, to see if they have a valid license? Just a thought I had.
Possible? yes
Logical? No
Let's let retailers do what they do and simply sell merchandise and not turn them further into an arm of the state.
soflabasser reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 11:13 AM, Glaucus said:A lot of people fish without a fishing license, and unfortunately I personally know quite a few of them. Since a license is technically required in order to fish public waters, just as a valid ID and appropriate age is required to purchase and drink alcohol, would it be possible or even logical for retailers to begin "carding" buyers when they go to purchase fishing supplies, to see if they have a valid license? Just a thought I had. There's a guy who harvests everything he catches, no matter the species or size, from a pond we like to go to, and he's blatantly admitted to not having a license because, to him, it's "stupid" to have to pay for a God given right, so it's been on my mind a lot lately.
A law is only as good as the people who are enforcing it. It sounds to me that the area this man fishes without a license has poor enforcement and its the main reason he gets away with poaching. Maybe you should contact your local DNR and give them the location this guy likes to poach and maybe then they might be able to catch him.
Burke reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 11:22 AM, soflabasser said:A law is only as good as the people who are enforcing it. It sounds to me that the area this man fishes without a license has poor enforcement and its the main reason he gets away with poaching. Maybe you should contact your local DNR and give them the location this guy likes to poach and maybe then they might be able to catch him.
As you dont have to give them your name - Just call them on the payphone if you are worried about them tracking you.
greentrout reply :
Fish some state parks & fishing lakes and law enforcement WILL be there checking for license and proper boating regulations...glad to see it...
MIbassyaker reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 11:13 AM, Glaucus said:A lot of people fish without a fishing license, and unfortunately I personally know quite a few of them. Since a license is technically required in order to fish public waters, just as a valid ID and appropriate age is required to purchase and drink alcohol, would it be possible or even logical for retailers to begin "carding" buyers when they go to purchase fishing supplies, to see if they have a valid license? Just a thought I had. There's a guy who harvests everything he catches, no matter the species or size, from a pond we like to go to, and he's blatantly admitted to not having a license because, to him, it's "stupid" to have to pay for a God given right, so it's been on my mind a lot lately.
1. Bad policy -- retailers would lose business from the sale of fishing gear that would otherwise have been used completely legally. Among other things, you wouldn't be able to stock up on supplies if your license expired and you hadn't bought a new one yet. And non-license holders wouldn't be able to buy fishing gear as gifts to the anglers in their lives. It makes no sense to burden retailers with enforcement of a law that doesn't itself directly apply to purchases. There is no law preventing me from owning fishing gear, or purchasing more of it, if I don't have a license.
2. State natural resource agencies are fully aware that illegal possession and harvest will always occur with some frequency, and they cannot prevent it all. This is factored into their decisions about licensing and creel limits, given their own best assessment of the rate of compliance, and how well they can enforce regulations. They enforce what they can, but they won't catch every violation, and they know this.
3. It bothers me that I have never in my life been asked to show my fishing license, anywhere I have fished (MN, WI, MI, ND, SD, CA, NJ). I make it a point to know the regulations and follow them, not because I'm worried about being caught, but because I believe in the management and preservation of fisheries as a public good. If I am not being checked by authorities, I think of all the violators who are also not being checked. but I can't worry about them -- they are taking a risk that I am not, and the extent of that risk is already well-known to the authorities.
Sam reply :
Been checked twice in Virginia.
Once on the Chickahominy Lake and the second time at Sandy Creek.
Both times the DGIF guys were great! After checking my license we discussed fishing and the local waters.
Seems the Virginia conservation officers will not waste their time on bass boats unless they think you are drinking or see an unsafe activity. They do target jet skis as there are lots of owners and drivers that do not have their Safe Boating Certificate or they consume alcohol.
With only 120 conservation officers in Virginia it is impossible to have a strong presence so in many locals the local police or sheriff departments help patrol the waters.
P.S. In Virginia, don't drink or do stupid stuff at the mouth of the Appomattox where it meets the Historic James River. You will get caught.
soflabasser reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 1:17 PM, MIbassyaker said:It bothers me that I have never in my life been asked to show my fishing license, anywhere I have fished (MN, WI, MI, ND, SD, CA, NJ). I make it a point to know the regulations and follow them, not because I'm worried about being caught, but because I believe in the management and preservation of fisheries as a public good. If I am not being checked by authorities, I think of all the violators who are also not being checked.
I have noticed this when I fish other states on vacation and have not been checked. Most states don't have enough DNR on the water to check most fishermen and this needs to be fixed. Florida has much better enforcement and I am asked to show my freshwater, saltwater, lobstering, snook stamp licenses several times a year while I am fishing in both freshwater and saltwater locations.
NYWayfarer reply :
I have been asked to show my license twice in the many years I have been fishing. I always have it.
As others have said there is a shortage of officers to enforce. One of the YouTube fishermen I watch was talking about how in his area there is one officer to patrol a huge area of Pennsylvania.
N Florida Mike reply :
I did not get a freshwater licence in Florida until I was 21, because of a rebellious nature. I never got asked to produce a license , and did have many close calls, fishing all over North and central Fl.
One day I felt strongly impressed to get a license and did so. The SAME DAY I got it, We were launching at Orange lake and THE MAN asked me. I started chuckling, and told him my tale, while producing my brand new , freshly printed license.He was not amused.
Ever since then, I have done my best to stay within the law, after seeing where the money goes to fishery and wildlife.
I believe without a doubt I am blessed to catch a lot of fish because of this compliance . I call it reaping what I've sown. Some would call it karma.
If I saw someone not in compliance, I wouldn't hesitate to call on them, unless they were possibly fishing to survive or just naive. But I would definitely speak to them about it .
But we already have way too much Gov. Involvement imo, so I would be opposed to stores asking for your license, and for all the other good reasons mentioned above.
Landis Carrier reply :
I live in Pa but fish in Pa, NY and NJ and I get a license for each state. It's a small price to pay for doing "what's right". There's always going to be those, IMO, a$$holes who don't think they need to pay the small cost of being legal.
soflabasser reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 8:15 PM, N Florida Mike said:I have done my best to stay within the law, after seeing where the money goes to fishery and wildlife.
I believe without a doubt I am blessed to catch a lot of fish because of this compliance . I call it reaping what I've sown. Some would call it karma.
If I saw someone not in compliance, I wouldn't hesitate to call on them, unless they were possibly fishing to survive or just naive. But I would definitely speak to them about it .
We are blessed to live in the fishing capital of the world and it is our best interest to protect our fisheries for us and the next generations to come. The bass fishing right now in South Florida is better overall than when I was a child and I see it getting better as time progresses. I am certain I will surpass all my largemouth bass fishing PB's as time passes and I won't have to leave Florida to do so!
Darren. reply :
When I lived in NY, I never got checked, ever.
(Clarification: I always bought a license and was
keenly aware of how tough they would be if I
were caught w/o one. NY is tough, I just never
got checked.)
Here in VA, I've been checked at least a half-dozen
times, not just for license, but for launch permits,
and so forth.
Our Rangers don't mess around, I've seen some
get caught for even fishing in areas not designated
as "shoreline" fishing. One thing they could do
better, IMO, is clearly mark areas for "boat launch
only - no fishing from shore" etc.
As for carding to buy fishing gear, I would say it is
a much bigger can of worms than for say, alcohol.
I'm all for smart regulations, though.
I second the thought of an anonymous tip-off to
the local authorities on the poacher....
Edited by Darren.Clarification
MassYak85 reply :
I don't think carding for fishing gear is really possible without severely limiting sales. I've bought fishing gear while visiting family in Iowa...I have never fished in Iowa and do not have an Iowa license, So I am not sure how you would do that. Plus I'm sure it would be a major burden on online retailers to get the license database synced up with all 50 states.
IMO, at least here in MA the DFG is just not funded well and don't have enough people to patrol. I'd say if the guy is a frequent offender just keep reporting it.
Turtle135 reply :
I have been checked twice in Maryland so far this season by DNR and once by WSSC checking for the required fishing/boating permit. I think these guys are following me around to fish my spots! 
Gundog reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 7:28 PM, NYWayfarer said:
As others have said there is a shortage of officers to enforce. One of the YouTube fishermen I watch was talking about how in his area there is one officer to patrol a huge area of Pennsylvania.
There are more than most people know or see. I've known and know 3 people who are or where part of the fish & boat commissions enforcement arm. My best friend and his FIL are both PA waterways conservation officers. Most of the time they try not to be seen unless they need to nab someone.
soflabasser reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 9:21 PM, Gundog said:There are more than most people know or see. I've known and know 3 people who are or where part of the fish & boat commissions enforcement arm. My best friend and his FIL are both PA waterways conservation officers. Most of the time they try not to be seen unless they need to nab someone.
One of my fishing buddies is a Ranger in one of the national parks down here. He tells me that Rangers and other conservation officers often dress up like fishermen and fish close to you to make sure you are following the law. He is very passionate about his job and I have his phone number to call if I see any poachers in the area I am fishing in. He loves his job and keeps one of the areas I fish safe so I am glad to see him when he patrols the area I fish.
LCG reply :
That drives me crazy. Here in Ontario, our licence fees go towards restocking and enforcement. Originally I thought it was a money grab but now that I understand it better I am all for it.
Call your local DNR or whatever it's called and report the pond location and times the guy is there. Here in Ontario the fines are severe. Licence suspension, monetary fines (sometimes thousands of dollars), seizure of equipment, vehicles, boats, etc.
Also here in Canada, you can not buy ammunition without a firearms licence. Similar idea.
keagbassr reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 9:15 PM, MassYak85 said:IMO, at least here in MA the DFG is just not funded well and don't have enough people to patrol
This is probably true. Unfortunately for me the epo lives across the street from my favorite pond. He's already checked me twice this year and last year twice in five days.
Angry John reply :
I have and will always have a license. It angers me to see state's gouge the honest people who try and do the right thing out of state. There should be one price for a year for everyone. A reasonable price for a two day or one week would increase compliance considerably. My home state of California may be the worst about this but I don't know that as fact. I like the NY rule about display while on the water, makes for quick easy enforcement.
Bassin' Brad reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 11:34 AM, Burke said:
As you dont have to give them your name - Just call them on the payphone if you are worried about them tracking you.
What's this strange device called "payphone" you speak of? ????lol
I think they make apps for things like that.
12poundbass reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 11:13 PM, Bassin' Brad said:What's this strange device called "payphone" you speak of? ????lol
I think they make apps for things like that.
I thought the same thing when I first read. I don't remember the last time I saw a payphone.
Armtx77 reply :
I have bought a combo hunting/fishing license, evey year for the last 24 years.
Once upon a time, a sportsman was assured that every dollar of that money, was going to be spent by the DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES, within that state.
In the last decade, these funds have either been partially or fully transfed to a general fund and that I have a problem with.
As stated by the OP. We probably have all seen the guy with no license, and no regard for established creel laws. Between hunting and fishing, I probably spend a 1/4 of the year afield...I have never been stopped buy a Conservation Officer...not once.
We need more agents, the money to be pu back into OUR system. As we pay for it, through a forced donations. The state pays to restock lakes and rivers. Yet we have to deal with knuckle draggers that fry up 10" bass and 6" crappie, but cant be bothered with 20.00 donation to make sure he can keep being a bum.
Frustrating.
fishwizzard reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 9:20 PM, Turtle135 said:I have been checked twice in Maryland so far this season by DNR and once by WSSC checking for the required fishing/boating permit. I think these guys are following me around to fish my spots!
That is not a bad strategy!
I have had my license checked twice this year, both times on weekday mornings. I was randomly by Rocky Gorge the day it opened and there was a officer there checking for permits and the second time I was fishing a large rat lure and I suspect he walked over just to get a look at it as he seemed more interested in it then looking at my license.
I suspect that most of MD's manpower goes to chasing guys poaching crabs/oysters/stripers, so it's allways surpising when I see someone checking at freshwater spots.
greentrout reply :
Resident - Each resident of the State of Mississippi ages sixteen (16) to sixty-four (64), fishing in the fresh or marine waters of Mississippi, including lakes and reservoirs but NOT to include privately owned ponds and streams, shall be required to buy a fishing license. A saltwater license is required south of U. S. Highway 90 and a freshwater or saltwater license is valid between I-10 and U. S. Highway 90. Saltwater license is not valid north of I-10. Any person sixty-five (65) or older, or any person otherwise exempted from obtaining a fishing license, must have documentation with him/her at all times while fishing as described in Exemptions [MS. Code 49-7-9]. However, Effective July 1, 2010, residents sixty-five (65) years of age or older are required to purchase a saltwater fishing license if fishing South of U.S. Highway 90. The Senior Saltwater License is a lifetime privilege.
Russ E reply :
the only time I have ever been checked in Kansas was on a local county lake that requires a special permit.
it is patrolled by the sheriffs department.
last year the same deputy checked me 11 times. I honestly think he was bored and just wanted to talk.
he only checked for a permit. never checked for a fishing license.
I spend a lot of time fishing and hunting public areas. I have never seen a conservation officer in Kansas, while in the field or on the water.
A-Jay reply :
Why does any grown man value a few dollars ahead of his own ethics & moral compass ?
#patheticandweakminded
A-Jay
Angry John reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 1:26 AM, A-Jay said:Why does any grown man value a few dollars ahead of his own ethics & moral compass ?
#patheticandweakminded
A-Jay
More disturbed about the general fund that they take for fishing and do other stuff. Mostly California. You saw this on the newes about the Orville damage problem. No ethics issue in a corrupt system.
BassWhole! reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 11:13 AM, Glaucus said:A lot of people fish without a fishing license, and unfortunately I personally know quite a few of them. Since a license is technically required in order to fish public waters, just as a valid ID and appropriate age is required to purchase and drink alcohol, would it be possible or even logical for retailers to begin "carding" buyers when they go to purchase fishing supplies, to see if they have a valid license? Just a thought I had. There's a guy who harvests everything he catches, no matter the species or size, from a pond we like to go to, and he's blatantly admitted to not having a license because, to him, it's "stupid" to have to pay for a God given right, so it's been on my mind a lot lately.
In my best John McEnroe voice: "YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS!"
Gundog reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 2:15 AM, reason said:In my best John McEnroe voice: "YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS!"
I hate to say it but my brother was one of those people. Only difference was the excuse. His excuse was that he only fished for trout and doesn't keep any so he shouldn't have to buy a license or the trout stamp. Then one day he got caught and saw how much the fine was. After that he decided it was cheaper to buy a license and stamp.
lo n slo reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 7:28 PM, NYWayfarer said:I have been asked to show my license twice in the many years I have been fishing. I always have it.
As others have said there is a shortage of officers to enforce. One of the YouTube fishermen I watch was talking about how in his area there is one officer to patrol a huge area of Pennsylvania.
same here, two times, and i’m almost 60 and live next to the largest man made reservoir in my state.
sadly, enforcement takes money, plain and simple, and some states either don’t have it, or won’t commit. but the license fees continue to rise. two years ago my annual state freshwater license increased by 50%, and my boat registration fee doubled. the money is going somewhere.
geo g reply :
Florida seniors don't need a license to fish freshwater.
A perk for being an old fart! I certainly appreciate it after all those years of buying one.
jbmaine reply :
I have no problem buying a license or dropping a dime on someone breaking the law. I think our fish and game people do a great job. Just watch older episodes of North Woods Law.
MassYak85 reply :
On 5/13/2018 at 10:19 PM, keagbassr said:This is probably true. Unfortunately for me the epo lives across the street from my favorite pond. He's already checked me twice this year and last year twice in five days.
I'd honestly love to have an EPO near me. Especially during ice fishing season where the local police seem to be pretty ignorant to the actual laws.
keagbassr reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 4:18 AM, MassYak85 said:I'd honestly love to have an EPO near me. Especially during ice fishing season where the local police seem to be pretty ignorant to the actual laws.
Yea I shouldn't have said 'unfortunate' this guys acually pretty cool about everything so long as your good.
On 5/14/2018 at 4:00 AM, jbmaine said:watch older episodes of North Woods Law.
Great show. Was always looking for farrington and koda whom i seem to run into every other year or so when I'm up.
LionHeart reply :
Show fishing license to buy tackle? Not logical for too many reasons to list.
WRB reply :
California fishing license are expensive $48+ annual Jan 1 to Dec 31, 16 years or older.
Lifetime license are now availble, every expensive for various age groups.
The only times I gave been asked for a fishing license in California when trout fishing. Never been asked for a license bass fishing, by a warden, a the tournament directors or anyone else.
Tom
Glaucus reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 5:57 AM, WRB said:California fishing license are expensive $48+ annual Jan 1 to Dec 31, 16 years or older.
Lifetime license are now availble, every expensive for various age groups.
The only times I gave been asked for a fishing license in California when trout fishing. Never been asked for a license bass fishing, by a warden, a the tournament directors or anyone else.
Tom
I hope you get one though.
On 5/14/2018 at 4:30 AM, LionHeart said:Show fishing license to buy tackle? Not logical for too many reasons to list.
I guess it's different when a poacher is ruining your fishery.
gimruis reply :
I think its pretty obvious based on most of the posts here that just about every state is short on game and fish law enforcement. There simply isn't enough of them and a lot of it has to do with funding so we are reliant on voluntary compliance.
I personally have never been asked to show my angling or any type of hunting license in Minnesota for 20 years now. I have run into several fish surveyors and DNR interns but never a Conservation Officer. I have been checked by the Water Patrol Sherriff for boat registration, PFDs, and a throwable cushion once on a popular suburban lake in the summer but I think they are mostly looked for drunk boaters.
Russ E reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 7:47 AM, Glaucus said:I hope you get one though.
I guess it's different when a poacher is ruining your fishery.
I would hope everyone that uses this sight, buys a fishing license.
if you know of someone poaching, turn them in. If you ignore it, then you have no reason to complain.
Since nearly all states are underfunded and short handed on officers, I feel it is the responsibility of ethical hunters and fishermen to turn in violators.
You don't have to give your name. nearly all states have an anonymous hotline.
They welcome your calls , no matter how small the violation.
This is for Kansas
ratherbfishin1 reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 5:57 AM, WRB said:California fishing license are expensive $48+ annual Jan 1 to Dec 31, 16 years or older.
Lifetime license are now availble, every expensive for various age groups.
The only times I gave been asked for a fishing license in California when trout fishing. Never been asked for a license bass fishing, by a warden, a the tournament directors or anyone else.
Tom
I mean it seems worth 48 bucks to me to fish in california... Nebraska has only had a handful of double digit bass caught with the state record under 11 pounds and a license is over 30 bucks. Still my word is more important to me than a few dollars.
FishDewd reply :
No that wouldn't be real logical at all. You don't need a license/permit to fish water that you own for one thing. I also don't think you need one for a public park, at least here anyway. Never had any ranger or patrolling officer at a pond ask me for a license (though I do have one, fresh and salt endorsed). I've had them come up and ask how my day was going, but that's about it lol.
LionHeart reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 7:47 AM, Glaucus said:I hope you get one though.
I guess it's different when a poacher is ruining your fishery.
Actually, it ain't. I sympathize with your plight, but being required to show a valid fishing license to buy tackle would be as effective as simply doing nothing, and makes about as much sense as having to show a driver's license to buy a set of tires.
Contact your local DOW.
Catt reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 1:26 AM, A-Jay said:Why does any grown man value a few dollars ahead of his own ethics & moral compass ?
#patheticandweakminded
A-Jay
What message y'all wanna send your kids & grandkids?
I'll stand with @A-Jay ????
Glaucus reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 10:30 AM, LionHeart said:Actually, it ain't. I sympathize with your plight, but being required to show a valid fishing license to buy tackle would be as effective as simply doing nothing, and makes about as much sense as having to show a driver's license to buy a set of tires.
Contact your local DOW.
I shall. Today I was headed to the pond, which is 2 blocks from me, and my neighbor said Don, the poacher, took all the fish. However I knew that was silly and had a good day catching 16 of them with a couple 4 pounders mixed in there, but I did see 3 belly up dead bass which I haven't seen before. Dunno if I can blame him but he's ticking everyone off so bad that who knows what to think? I'll notify the proper authorities.
islandbass reply :
I don’t think that is a good idea for the reasons already given.
just as importantly, you rule would deny an angler’s family members and friends who don’t fish the ability to buy them gear and tackle.
Report him. I am certain you’d be able to do it anonymously too.
WRB reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 7:47 AM, Glaucus said:I hope you get one though.
I guess it's different when a poacher is ruining your fishery.
Every year since 1956 when they cost $3.
Tom
NittyGrittyBoy reply :
In my parts it's a regular thing to be stopped by local game wardens and asked for liscense.
Very strict on hunting and fishing, I do alot of hog hunting with dogs and when they hear dogs barking they are quick to come to ya
TOXIC reply :
All for strict enforcement. When I was guiding, I asked clients to show their license. If they "forgot" to get one I marched them up to the bait store at the launch. Saltwater guides can by one that covers anyone in their boat but not freshwater guides. I get checked often here in Virginia and don't mind at all. I never get checked in Wisconsin so one day I motored up to the Sheriff and asked him why he never did a check on me since he was pulling boats over left and right. He told me "You bass guys always have your chit together and it's a waste of my time" with a smile.
The only time I ever had a problem with enforcement was when I was wade fishing and I was up to my chest in water and 2 DNR Officers paddled up in a canoe and asked me for my license. I told them it was in my Jeep parked on shore not more than 50 yards away. I got a ticket anyway. ????
BassWhole! reply :
Whenever I'm fishing from shore, and I see a DNR guy who is clearly out of shape, and is checking licenses, I wait until he gets about 50 feet way, and they I'll run about 1/4 mile over and start fishing again, if he gets within 50 ft again, I'll repeat the process until I hook a fish, and then I'll wait around for him. Once he wipes the sweat from his forehead, and catches his breath, I'll show him my license. Makes me wish I had a YouTube channel.
Choporoz reply :
I get checked a couple/few times a year and am always glad for it. VA, like Kansas mentioned above, also encourages reporting of violations. I rather enjoy the emails I get from the state detailing poachers who've recently been arrested.
How to Report a Violation
- Call 1-800-237-5712, or
- Email WildCrime@dgif.virginia.gov
When reporting try to provide as much information as possible, such as:
- What happened
- Where it happened, being as specific as possible
- Who was involved, describing persons (names if known), vehicles (license numbers are crucial), names of other witnesses
- When did it happen (date and time are very important!)
Don’t allow the actions of a few outlaws to tarnish the reputation of Virginia’s sportsmen and sportswomen!
https://www.dgif.virginia.gov/conservation-police/wildlife-violation/
Log Catcher reply :
On 5/14/2018 at 2:51 AM, geo g said:Florida seniors don't need a license to fish freshwater.
Kentucky seniors license used to be free. Then they went to $5.00. This year they raised it to $12.00 and were wanting to raise it to $18.00. You don't get a break being old here anymore.
If tackle shops ever had to check for a license to sell you something they would have to accept a license from every state. If they didn't I wouldn't be able to go to Ohio or Indiana to BPS to buy anything. I would n't buy a license from another state if I wasn't fishing there.
flg2010 reply :
I am checked routinely.
However, that said, I fish a polluted river system along with small connected to river system ponds which you really cannot harvest anything out of without putting yourself at risk for all sorts of problems if you eat the fish.
I can understand being concerned about over harvesting on a healthy river, stream, or lake... but.. not on my river.
Yeajray231 reply :
The main reason not selling tackle to people who don't have a license wouldn't work is because you don't need a license for private waters. I could spend all my free fishing time on private waters and I need no approval from law enforcement or the state..
Ratherbfishing reply :
Is it possible? I suppose. Would you really make some people mad by doing so? Yes. Even IF I had my license (I always do), I'd be honked off if I was asked to show proof by a vendor. And there are ENOUGH regulations on the books without more headaches to contend with.
Raul reply :
In Mexico you don’t need a fishing license if you fish from shore only if you fish from a boat. I’ve fished for more than 4 decades, fished all over Mexico and the only place where once I was asked for my fishing license was at Zimapán, glad I had it with me, besides the cost isn’t that much, 50 dollars and it’s Federal ( you can fish in any state with it ). The law is the law, I do the right thing even if there’s nobody to police me.
TnRiver46 reply :
I get checked all the time. DNRs all claim to be underfunded but do you guys honestly believe that??? When is the govt ever short on cash?
Rahlow reply :
Amazes me you need a license to fish, get married, drive a car, but don't even need picture ID to vote,,,,,,,,
here you need no license to fish on private property so the license check would not work,
I see a Fishing License as a tax not called a tax.
BassThumb reply :
I've never been checked for a license (or a livewell full of fish) in the ten years I've owned my boat. Only times I've ever been checked was once while icefishing and about five times while wade-fishing in the Mississippi River as a teenager. In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Game Wardens are spread pretty thin. That's a lot of accesses to staff.
MrFrost reply :
I get the spirit behind the idea of the license check for purchasing gear, but the requirement for a fishing license is only in relation to the act of fishing, not owning the gear.
I know this may not be a popular idea, but if for some reason you don't want to report this poacher, buy him a license and explain to him why you're doing so. Personally, I'd not go that route, and I would report him or at the very least have a direct conversation with him and tell him his options.
He's just one out of many, and one at a time poachers may seem insignificant but they all contribute to the entirety of the problem. And slowly, the fishermen that follow the rules always end up paying the price.
J Francho reply :
So, my girlfriend has to get a fishing license in order to buy me a reel as a gift? That isn't going to work. Tell you what, instead of aiding and abetting all these people that you know fish without a license, call your DNR tip line. Isn't that what this is about, finding some work around rather than ratting out your "friends."
SDoolittle reply :
On 5/24/2018 at 9:25 PM, J Francho said:So, my girlfriend has to get a fishing license in order to buy me a reel as a gift?
That's what I was just thinking! Also, how would you show your license when ordering tackle online?
geo g reply :
You need a fishing license to buy fishing gear!!!! That's some crazy crap. Its hard for me to believe that, I don't even need a license to fish freshwater in Florida.
Tennessee Boy reply :
I've been checked by a Game Warden five times. My license was only checked twice. I guess it's because I did not have a line in the water when the Warden approached me. They always check all the required safety items for the boat. I've never had one check my live well.
BassNJake reply :
I'll get checked all 3 days this weekend, then on the 4th of July and again on labor day weekend.
Seems like they are out in droves on the busy holiday weekends.
Fishingmickey reply :
On 5/24/2018 at 10:33 PM, BassNJake said:I'll get checked all 3 days this weekend, then on the 4th of July and again on labor day weekend.
Seems like they are out in droves on the busy holiday weekends.
Your spot on, Usually when there are the most drunken boaters are out and the most water related fatalities occur. Just like the highway patrol.
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