If you’re a nonresident angler in Kentucky, a 7‑day fishing license costs $35 and lets you fish for a week; residents usually don’t need a weekly pass (residents 15 and under fish free and can buy a $7 one‑day pass). You can buy the weekly pass online or at local vendors and should carry proof of purchase. Some activities (like keeping trout or using pay lakes) may need extra permits, and there are also exemptions and free fishing days if you want more details.

Who Needs a 7-Day Fishing License

If you’re a non-resident aged 16 or older and plan to fish in Kentucky for a week, you’ll need a 7‑Day Fishing License; Kentucky residents 15 and under don’t need any license, including the 7‑day option.

You should know the core fishing age requirements up front so you don’t buy unnecessary permits. Non-residents 16+ must obtain the short-term pass; residents 16+ follow resident licensing rules instead.

Certain people are exempt: military personnel on leave longer than three days, landowners and their immediate family fishing on their property, and anyone fishing during designated Free Fishing Days (for example, June 7–8, 2025).

Some people are exempt — military on leave over three days, landowners/family on their property, and Free Fishing Day visitors.

When you start the license purchasing process, have proof of residency or military status if you claim an exemption. Use the state’s online portal or licensed agents to buy the 7‑Day pass quickly, but don’t buy one if an exemption applies — that saves time and money and keeps you compliant on the water.

7-Day License Fees by Residency

When you’re planning a short trip, Kentucky’s day and 7‑day licenses keep things simple and affordable: nonresidents can buy a 7‑Day Fishing License for $35.00 to fish for a week, while residents have a $7.00 1‑Day Fishing License for spontaneous outings.

You’ll appreciate the clear resident benefits: that $7 day pass covers a quick outing without the cost of an annual license, and residents 15 and under don’t need a license at all.

Nonresident options are straightforward too — the $35 seven‑day permit suits vacationers who want a week of fishing without committing long term, and nonresident 1‑day licenses are available if your plans are shorter.

Both resident and nonresident 1‑day licenses offer flexible, short‑term privileges for casual anglers. Keep these differences in mind when choosing a pass so you pick the one that matches your stay, age exemptions, and how many days you actually plan to fish.

How and Where to Purchase a Weekly Fishing Pass

You can buy a 7‑day fishing pass online through the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources website or at any of over 900 local vendors across the state. You’ll choose resident ($7) or nonresident ($35), complete online purchasing or buy in person, and get an authorization number if you go online — carry it while fishing since no physical license is mailed. The pass starts the day you buy it and follows all current regulations.

Use online purchasing for convenience or hit local vendors for a face‑to‑face purchase. Either way, you’ll be ready for a week of fishing without hassle.

Exceptions, Exemptions, and Free Fishing Days

After you’ve got your weekly pass sorted, know there are several situations where a license isn’t required. If you’re 15 or younger — resident or nonresident — you’re exempt under Kentucky rules.

Bona fide resident farmland owners and their immediate families can fish on their own land without a license, and resident servicemen on furlough longer than three days are also exempt.

These fishing license exemptions cut costs for many anglers, but you still must follow size, bag, and season rules.

Kentucky also offers clear free fishing opportunities: June 7-8, 2025, is a statewide Free Fishing Days weekend when anyone can fish without buying a license.

Additional Permits and Validations You May Need

Although a 7-day nonresident license gets you onto Kentucky waters for $35, you’ll often need extra permits for specific activities or species: you’ll want a quick fishing regulations overview so you don’t get caught off-guard.

The 7-day pass covers general angling, but keeping trout requires a Trout Permit ($10) unless you’re exempt (for example, under 16).

If you plan to use pay lakes, check whether the operator issues a free permit or if you must hold a Kentucky fishing license—both are common.

Hunting or trapping during the same trip needs separate licenses and validations; fishing licenses don’t cover those activities.

Treat this as a permit requirements summary: identify target species and location, confirm exemptions, and buy required permits before you go.

Doing that keeps you compliant and focused on fishing, not citations.

If you’re ever unsure, contact Kentucky Fish & Wildlife for the definitive rules and to purchase permits online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Transfer My 7-Day License to Another Person?

No, you usually can’t transfer a 7-day license; fishing license rules and license transfer policies typically prohibit transfers, so you’ll need the other person to buy their own license or check your state agency for any specific exceptions or procedures.

Are There Discounts for Military or Veterans?

Good news — you’re often honored with savings: many states offer military discounts and veterans benefits on licenses. Check your local fish-and-game agency; you’ll usually need ID or documentation to redeem reduced rates or exemptions.

Is the 7-Day License Valid on Private Ponds?

Generally, no — you’ll need to check private pond regulations, since license usage limits vary by state and landowner permission; some states allow 7-day licenses on private waters, others require additional permits or written consent.

Do I Need a Boat Permit With the 7-Day Pass?

Like a map guiding you, you don’t automatically need a boat permit with the 7-day pass, but you should check local boat regulations because some waters require permits for fishing access, and rules vary by jurisdiction.

Can I Get a Refund if Plans Change?

You generally can’t get a refund once the pass is issued, but some agencies offer a limited refund process if you request before license expiration; check the vendor’s policy, provide proof, and act promptly to appeal.

Conclusion

If you’re planning a short fishing trip, a 7-day license gives you flexible, cost-effective access without committing to a full year. Remember the adage “a stitch in time saves nine” — buy the right pass before you head out to avoid fines or last‑minute hassle. Check residency fees, where to buy, and whether extra permits or free‑fishing days apply so you’ll be ready, compliant, and free to enjoy your time on the water.