The Washington youth fishing license cost is $0 for anglers younger than 16. Some species still require a catch record card at any age. At 15, anglers who fish for Columbia River salmon or steelhead may also need the $7.10 endorsement.
Washington Youth Fishing License Cost by Age
| Age | Base license | Check before fishing |
|---|---|---|
| 14 or younger | No base license | Catch cards and relevant endorsements |
| 15 | No base license | Catch cards and $7.10 Columbia River endorsement if applicable |
| 16 or older | Applicable fishing license | Check residency, species and water |
See WDFW’s fishing license guidance and the Columbia River salmon and steelhead rules.
Get the Required Card or Endorsement
- Check the catch card for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut or Puget Sound Dungeness crab.
- Puget Sound Dungeness crab requires an endorsement and a separate catch card regardless of age. Ask the dealer which youth product to issue.
- Obtain the correct card before fishing and check how and when to report the catch.
Read WDFW’s catch card guide and the Puget Sound Dungeness card instructions.
Prepare for the First Paid License
At 16, compare the Washington resident license options. For marine fishing and crabbing, see the Puget Sound guide.
Check WDFW fishing regulations and emergency changes for your water, species and dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a 15-year-old need a Washington fishing license?
No base license is required under age 16. A 15-year-old may need the Columbia River salmon and steelhead endorsement and a catch card.
Can a child use an adult’s catch card?
WDFW requires each angler, including youth, to carry the appropriate catch record card when fishing for covered species.
Do children need a card to catch Dungeness crab in Puget Sound?
Yes. All crabbers in the Puget Sound management area need the endorsement and the correct Dungeness catch record card.
