A California nonresident fishing license costs $21.09 for one day, $32.40 for two consecutive days, $64.54 for ten consecutive days or $174.14 for 365 days in 2026. Most visiting anglers age 16 or older need the appropriate license.
California Nonresident Fishing License Dates and Fees
| Term | Fee | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| One day | $21.09 | One specified date |
| Two days | $32.40 | Two consecutive dates |
| Ten days, nonresidents | $64.54 | Ten consecutive dates |
| 365 days, nonresidents | $174.14 | Year-round fishing from the issued date |
Check CDFW’s sport fishing fee and requirements page before buying. Visiting anglers under 16 generally do not need a base license but may need report cards for some species.
Buy the Right License and Carry It
- Check that you are buying the nonresident product and select the actual fishing dates.
- Buy online, at a CDFW license sales office or through an authorized license agent.
- Review the issued dates and carry an accepted license and any applicable physical report cards.
See the CDFW store and the CDFW License App guidance for options.
Check Exceptions, Validations and Species Rules
The $7.30 Ocean Enhancement Validation applies to covered ocean fishing south of Point Arguello. The one-day and two-day sport fishing licenses are exempt from that validation. Species-specific report card requirements may still apply.
Fishing from a qualifying public ocean pier can be exempt from the base license requirement. Verify the structure qualifies and check species-specific rules and report cards.
Check inland fishing rules or ocean fishing rules for your water, species, dates and method.
For the cost comparison across multiple trips, see nonresident cost examples.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a visitor buy a California two-day fishing license?
Yes. The $32.40 two-day license covers two consecutive dates.
Can a nonresident buy a license online?
Yes. Use the CDFW store or a license agent. Verify the dates and carry the required documents.
Does a child need a nonresident license?
Children under 16 are generally exempt from the base license. Some species still require a report card.
