If you need a 1-day fishing license in Minnesota, you’ll pay $12 for a resident 24-hour permit or $14 as a non‑resident (that includes a $5 surcharge). Licenses are valid for 24 hours from purchase and can be bought instantly online or at many retail locations like Walmart. Remember trout stamps ($10) or other tags may be required for specific waters or species. Keep your license with you while fishing — continue for details on stamps, exemptions, and purchase options.
Who Needs a 1-Day Fishing License in Minnesota?
Wondering if you need a 1-day fishing license in Minnesota? You do if you’re a non-resident aged 16 or older—Minnesota requires a 1-Day for non-residents who want to fish.
For residents, fishing age requirements mean anyone 16 through 89 must hold a valid license, and the 1-Day option is available to satisfy that requirement when you need a short-term permit.
Children under 16 don’t need a license when they fish with a licensed parent or guardian, so you can take younger anglers without extra paperwork.
Children under 16 can fish without a license when accompanied by a licensed parent or guardian.
Seniors 90 and older are exempt, so you won’t need a permit if you fall into that age group. Military personnel on leave from active duty are also exempt from licensing while on leave.
Understand the different license types offered so you choose the correct permit for your situation—short-term 1-Day options exist, but exemptions and age thresholds determine whether you actually need one.
Cost Breakdown: Resident Vs Non‑Resident Daily Permits
Because pricing differs by residency, you’ll pay $12 for a 24-hour fishing license if you’re a Minnesota resident and $14 if you’re a non‑resident, the latter reflecting a $5 surcharge built into the total fee. This cost comparison clarifies what you’ll owe and why rates differ. The 24-hour license is valid from purchase time and covers one day of fishing; resident youth under 16 don’t need a license. Knowing the permit advantages helps you choose: residents save money, non‑residents accept a small surcharge for short-term access.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Resident Price | $12.00 |
| Non‑Resident Price | $14.00 |
| Surcharge | $5 (non‑resident) |
| Validity | 24 hours from purchase |
| Youth Exception | Residents under 16 exempt |
Both resident and non‑resident daily licenses can be bought online or at retail outlets. Use this concise breakdown to assess cost and benefit before your next outing.
Where and How to Buy a Daily Fishing License
Where can you buy a 24‑hour fishing license? You can buy a 24‑hour fishing license online purchasing through the Minnesota DNR Electronic Licensing System or at more than 1,400 licensed agent retail locations statewide.
Residents pay $12; non‑residents pay $14. The DNR site issues licenses instantly, so you can fish immediately after purchase. If you prefer in person, approved retail outlets — including many Walmart stores — sell daily licenses and complete the same electronic transaction.
When you buy online, have your ID and payment ready to speed checkout; the system emails or stores your license electronically.
At retail locations, staff use the same electronic system and will issue proof of purchase on the spot. It’s essential to carry your license while fishing or transporting fish to comply with Minnesota regulations.
Choose online purchasing for speed or retail locations for face‑to‑face help; both deliver instant, valid daily permits.
Stamps, Tags, and Additional Requirements for Short‑Term Licenses
Need a trout stamp to fish certain streams and lakes? You’ll have to buy one when targeting designated trout waters — the trout stamp costs $10 and is required in addition to your short-term license.
Understand stamps significance: they fund habitat and species management, ensuring stocked and wild trout fisheries stay healthy.
Stamps help fund habitat restoration and fisheries management, keeping stocked and wild trout populations healthy.
You’ll also see voluntary options like the $5 walleye stamp; it isn’t required but supports walleye stocking programs if you choose to contribute.
Check tag requirements before you go: certain species or special regulations can mandate tags or endorsements beyond the base 24-hour ($12 residents, $14 non-residents) or 72-hour ($14 residents, $22 non-residents) permits.
Carry your short-term license and any required stamps or tags on your person while fishing to comply with state rules.
Confirm current local regulations and purchase stamps at the same outlets where you buy daily or multi-day licenses.
Exemptions and Special Cases for Daily Fishing Permits
While most anglers need a daily fishing permit, several clear exemptions apply so you don’t have to buy one in specific situations. Here’s a concise exemptions summary and guide to special cases so you can know when to skip the permit.
If you’re a resident under 16, you don’t need a fishing license, including daily permits. Non-residents 16 and older must obtain a daily fishing license to fish Minnesota waters.
Military personnel stationed out of state can fish without a license if they carry valid leave papers proving their status. Seniors aged 90 and older are fully exempt from any fishing license, including daily permits.
If you fish within a state park, you’re also exempt from needing a fishing license for daily fishing activities. Always carry proof of age, residency, military orders, or park permissions to verify your exemption.
When in doubt, confirm current rules with the state fisheries agency to avoid citations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Buy a 1-Day License Online the Same Day I Fish?
Yes — you can usually complete an online purchase and start same day fishing immediately, though some states enforce a short processing or activation delay; check your state’s wildlife agency website for specific rules and confirmation.
Are Boaters Required to Carry the Daily Permit Onboard?
Yes — think of the permit as your boat’s ID; you’re required to carry it onboard. You’ll uphold boater responsibilities, and permit enforcement can request it, so keep the daily permit accessible and ready for inspection.
Does the Daily License Cover Ice Fishing or Only Open-Water Fishing?
Yes—you can use the daily license for both ice fishing and open-water fishing unless your state’s ice fishing regulations or open water restrictions specify otherwise; always check local rules before you fish.
Can I Upgrade a 1-Day License to an Annual License and Get a Refund?
Like finding a hidden trailhead, yes — you can usually upgrade via the license upgrade process and pay the difference; refund policies vary by state, so check your agency’s rules promptly to confirm eligibility and timing.
What Identification Is Required When Fishing With a Daily Permit?
You’ll need to carry photo ID plus your daily permit; acceptable identification types include state driver’s license, state ID card, or passport. You’ll follow fishing regulations, and officers may request both documents during checks.
Conclusion
You’ll often need a 1-day fishing license when you’re visiting Minnesota for a quick trip, and coincidentally, it’s often the simplest, cheapest option whether you’re a resident or not. You’ll pay less as a resident, but non‑resident daily permits still let you fish legally without committing to a season ticket. Buy your permit online, at a vendor, or DNR office, and don’t forget stamps or tags when required—so you’re covered and ready to fish today.
