An Illinois 3-day fishing license costs $15.50 and is available to nonresidents. It covers up to three consecutive fishing days. If you are an Illinois resident, compare the $5.50 24-hour license with the $15 annual license when a license is required.
Illinois 3-Day Fishing License Choices
| Plan | License option | Published amount |
|---|---|---|
| Nonresident fishing within 24 hours | Nonresident 24-hour sport fishing | $10.50 |
| Nonresident fishing for two or three consecutive days | Nonresident three-day fishing | $15.50 |
| Illinois resident fishing within 24 hours | Resident 24-hour sport fishing | $5.50 |
| Illinois resident planning multiple trips | Resident annual sport fishing at the standard rate | $15.00 |
See the nonresident fee table and IDNR fishing fee list. The three-day product is for consecutive days. For spread-out visits, compare separate short licenses with the nonresident annual license and stamp guide.
Check the Validity Dates Before You Buy
- Check that you qualify for the nonresident product and each angler who needs one has the appropriate license.
- Use IDNR licensing or an authorized vendor. Check the start and end on the issued license. Illinois law specifies a three-consecutive-day fishing period and an outside expiration on the tenth day after issuance, excluding the issuance date.
- Confirm the location and fish species. Licensed anglers taking inland trout or trout or salmon in Lake Michigan should check the corresponding $6.50 stamp.
- Carry the license and any applicable stamp. Consult the IDNR fishing regulations for site access, exemptions, catch limits and special boundary rules.
Trip Cost With a Trout or Salmon Stamp
If your trip requires one $6.50 stamp, the listed license and stamp add to $22.00 before any additional purchase fee. A short-term license by itself does not waive a stamp. Confirm current requirements and which stamp applies in the Illinois trout stamp guide and the state digest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is an Illinois 3-day fishing license?
IDNR lists the nonresident three-day fishing license at $15.50. An additional transaction fee may apply.
Can an Illinois resident buy the three-day fishing license?
The three-day product is listed for nonresidents. Illinois residents can check the resident 24-hour or annual product when a license is needed.
Does the three-day license cover three weekends?
No. The law allows up to three consecutive fishing days. Use the dates printed on the license.
What does a three-day license plus one trout or salmon stamp cost?
At the posted rates, $15.50 plus one $6.50 stamp is $22.00 before any additional transaction fee.
