A Michigan nonresident fishing license is generally required for out-of-state anglers age 17 or older who fish Michigan public waters. The 2026 annual license is $76, and a daily license is $10 for 24 hours. Check the rules for your exact location if you will fish a boundary water.
Michigan Nonresident Fishing License Requirements
Visitors can buy a daily or annual all-species license. Anglers younger than 17 generally fish without a license but still follow the rules for the species and water. Michigan DNR distinguishes actively fishing with a child from limited help such as landing or unhooking a fish.
The Michigan fishing regulations digest explains residency. A permanent home with intent to remain, certain full-time students living in Michigan and qualifying military assignments are covered under the state criteria. Owning Michigan land by itself does not qualify.
Use the nonresident fee comparison to calculate your trip price.
How to Buy and What to Carry
- Buy through the Michigan DNR license page, Hunt Fish app or a license agent. The digest lists a valid driver’s license from your state of residency as an accepted purchase ID.
- For a daily license, enter the start date and time. A 2026 annual license is valid through March 31, 2027.
- Carry the license and the ID used to buy it. Michigan allows electronic display. Check whether you need a paper copy when fishing a shared water.
Shared Waters and Site Rules
The Michigan–Wisconsin boundary-water section of the digest lists specific waters where the two states recognize qualifying fishing licenses. It distinguishes anglers who live in either border state from visitors from other states. Check the named water and the rules for the side where you fish.
On any trip, look up open dates, permitted methods and harvest limits in the current fishing rules. For trout-specific rules, see the Michigan trout license guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a nonresident child need a Michigan fishing license?
Anglers younger than 17 generally do not need a Michigan fishing license. Fishing rules, including the season and harvest limits, still apply.
Can I show a Michigan fishing license on my phone?
Michigan DNR allows electronic display of a fishing license. Carry the identification used to buy the license as well.
Does a Michigan license cover every Wisconsin border water?
Use the Michigan DNR boundary-water list for the specific lake or river. The reciprocity rules apply to named waters and qualifying licenses.
