The cost of a fishing license in Virginia varies depending on the type of license, the length of time for which it is valid, and the age and residency status of the applicant.
Resident Licenses
- Resident State Freshwater Fishing License (age 16 and older)
- 1-year license: $23.00
- 2-year license: $44.00
- 3-year license: $65.00
- 4-year license: $86.00
- Resident Annual Freshwater Fishing Permit for Those 65 and Over
- $39.50
- Resident Combination Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing License
- $39.50
- Resident Saltwater-Only Fishing License
- $17.50
- Resident County or City Fishing License (for fishing in a specific county or city only)
- $16.00
Nonresident Licenses
- Nonresident State Freshwater Fishing License (age 16 and older)
- 1-year license: $46.00
- 2-year license: $82.00
- 3-year license: $118.00
- 4-year license: $154.00
- Nonresident Annual Trout Fishing License
- $23.00
- Nonresident Combination Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing License
- $92.00
- Nonresident Saltwater-Only Fishing License
- $500.00
Lifetime Licenses
- Resident Lifetime Freshwater Fishing License
- $150.00
- Resident Lifetime Trout Fishing License
- $555.00
- Resident Lifetime Saltwater Fishing License
- $500.00
- Nonresident Lifetime Freshwater Fishing License
- $500.00
- Nonresident Lifetime Trout Fishing License
- $1,110.00
- Nonresident Lifetime Saltwater Fishing License
- $1,000.00
In addition to the license fees, there are also a number of other fees that may be required for fishing in Virginia. These fees include:
- Daily permit required at Clinch Mountain, Crooked Creek, and Douthat State Park fee fishing areas: $8.00
- Additional permit required for State Forest use: $4.00
- County Dip permit required to take shad, herring, or mullet: $4.50
Where to Buy a Fishing License in Virginia
Fishing licenses can be purchased online, by phone, or in person at a variety of locations throughout the state.
Online: Go to the Go Outdoors Virginia website: https://dwr.virginia.gov/licenses/ and click on the “Buy Licenses” tab.
By phone: Call 1-866-721-6911
In person: You can find a list of license agents on the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website: https://dwr.virginia.gov/licenses/agents/.
Need Help Buying a Fishing License?
If you need help buying a fishing license, you can contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources at 1-800-237-2242
Can I Fish in Virginia Without a License?
No, you must have a valid fishing license to fish in Virginia. The only exceptions are for children under 16 years old and for military personnel on active duty.
