I’ve always loved fishing, and I’ve been lucky enough to have grown up in New York State, where there are some amazing fishing opportunities. Fishing has always been a way for me to connect with nature and spend time outdoors. It’s also a great way to learn about fish and their environment. But before I could cast my first line, I needed to get a fishing license.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the process of obtaining a New York fishing license, step-by-step. I’ll also share some tips for getting the most out of your fishing experience.
What you need:
- Proof of residency
This is a must-have if you are a resident of New York State. You can submit a driver’s license, non-driver ID, or utility bill as proof of residency.
- A credit or debit card
You can purchase a fishing license with either a credit or debit card. However, if you want to purchase a license by phone, you will need to pay with cash or a money order.
- A printer
If you are applying for a fishing license online or by phone, you will need to have a printer to print your license. You can also print your license at a licensed agent.
How to get a license:
There are three ways to obtain a New York fishing license:
- Online
If you prefer to get your fishing license online, you can do so by visiting the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website: https://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6091.html Create an account and then fill out a short application. You will then be able to print your license immediately.
- By phone
If you prefer not to use the internet to get your fishing license, you can do so by calling 1-866-933-2257. When you call, you will need to provide your name, address, date of birth, and proof of residency. You will also need to pay by credit or debit card. Your license will be mailed to you within 2-4 weeks.
- At a licensed agent
There are many licensed agents throughout New York State where you can purchase a fishing license. To find a licensed agent near you, you can go to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website:https://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6091.html.
Cost of a fishing license:
The cost of a New York fishing license varies depending on the type of license you purchase and your age:
- Annual resident fishing license: $25 (ages 16-69), $5 (ages 70+)
- 7-day resident fishing license: $12
- 1-day resident fishing license: $5
- Lifetime resident fishing license: $460 (ages 0-69), $65 (ages 70+)
- Annual nonresident fishing license: $50
- 7-day nonresident fishing license: $28
- 1-day nonresident fishing license: $10
Tips for getting a fishing license:
- If you are a resident of New York State, be sure to bring proof of residency when you apply for a license. This can be a driver’s license, non-driver ID, or utility bill.
- If you are purchasing a license online, be sure to have your credit or debit card information ready.
- If you are purchasing a license by phone, be sure to have your name, address, date of birth, and proof of residency ready.
- If you are purchasing a license at a licensed agent, be sure to have the amount of the license fee in cash or by credit card.
Fishing in New York State:
New York State has a wide variety of fishing opportunities, from freshwater lakes and streams to saltwater bays and oceans. There are fish to be caught for all skill levels and interests.
If you are a beginner, I recommend starting with freshwater fishing. There are many lakes and streams in New York State that are stocked with fish, such as trout, bass, and panfish. You can usually find a spot to fish without having to travel too far from home.
Once you have mastered the basics of freshwater fishing, you can start exploring saltwater fishing. Saltwater fishing can be more challenging, but it’s also more rewarding. There are many different types of fish to be caught in saltwater, such as striped bass, bluefish, and flounder.
**No matter what your skill level or interests, you’re sure to have Fun
