You’ll pay $40.25 for an annual youth fishing license as a resident and $43.57 as a non‑resident; one‑day and short‑term youth options are cheaper and a 3‑day combo is $25.53. Kids under 14 fish free year‑round when supervised by an experienced adult. Youth licenses don’t require catch record cards, but you must follow season, size and bag limits and track expirations. Continue to the full details to see purchase steps, exceptions and endorsements.
Youth Fishing License Overview and Eligibility
While rules vary by residency, youth anglers get discounted access: residents under 16 pay $40.25 and non-residents $43.57 for an annual youth fishing license, which must be renewed each year and expires on March 31 of the following year.
You’ll find eligibility centers on age: under 16 qualifies for the reduced annual license; under 14 can fish free year-round when accompanied by an experienced adult and doesn’t need a license.
One-day combination options exist — $14.90 for resident youth, $27.05 for non-resident youth — for single-trip participation.
Youth licenses don’t require a catch record card, reducing administrative burden and supporting youth fishing benefits like easier access and engagement.
From a regulatory perspective, you must track expiration and renewal to remain compliant.
Apply the guidance and fishing safety tips: always fish with an experienced adult when under 14, carry proof of license if applicable, and follow local catch-and-size rules to avoid violations.
Cost Breakdown by License Type and Residency
Because costs and eligibility differ by duration and residency, you should pick the license that matches your trip and status: an annual Youth Under 16 license costs $40.25 for residents and $43.57 for non‑residents. A 3‑day combination youth license is $25.53, and children under 14 fish free year‑round when accompanied by an experienced adult.
You’ll use a license comparison to determine whether an annual or short-term option aligns with trip frequency, and you’ll consider pricing variations driven by residency.
Licensing rules: youth under 16 may fish in freshwater and saltwater when accompanied by an adult. No additional fees apply for the catch record card; it’s issued free.
Youth under 16 may fish freshwater and saltwater when accompanied by an adult; catch record cards are issued free.
For regulatory compliance, carry proof of age and the appropriate license or documentation of exemption.
- Compare annual vs short-term costs to match outing frequency and residency.
- Note free year‑round access for under‑14s when supervised.
- Verify catch card issuance and keep documentation on person for enforcement.
How and Where to Buy a Junior Fishing License
How do you get a junior fishing license in Washington? You can complete an online purchase via the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife site or buy at authorized local vendors statewide. Residents pay $40.25; non-residents pay $43.57. Create an account to log in, select the junior license, and provide guardian details if needed.
| Method | Notes |
|---|---|
| Online purchase | Account required; faster selection |
| Local vendors | Immediate issuance at point-of-sale |
| Mail delivery | 10–15 days; plan ahead |
| Guardian assistance | Parents/guardians can help purchase |
Regulatory points: licenses cover youth under 16. Children under 14 may fish free with an experienced adult present, but carrying proof of age and guardian documentation is prudent when purchased on behalf of a minor. Because mailed licenses take 10–15 days, you should purchase before planned trips to guarantee compliance with possession and enforcement requirements.
Exceptions, Free Fishing Days, and Senior/Disabled Rules
If you’re under 16 and fishing with an experienced adult, you don’t need a license year‑round, but you must follow all season, size, and bag limits and carry proof of age when requested.
You also must respect written permission requirements for fishing on private property; lack of permission is a separate violation regardless of license status.
The annual Free Fishing Weekend (weekend after the first Monday of June) waives license requirements for everyone, but you still must comply with fishing regulations.
- Seniors 70+ qualify for discounted resident licenses for freshwater and saltwater; carry ID when requested.
- Disabled residents may obtain reduced‑fee licenses based on eligibility documentation; fee reductions offset limited income.
- Written landowner permission is required for access to private property and must be presented upon request.
Follow posted regulations, retain documentation when applicable, and confirm current fees and eligibility with the agency before fishing.
Required Endorsements, Catch Record Cards, and Permits
When you buy a youth fishing license (resident $40.25; non‑resident $43.57), check required endorsements and free catch record cards for targeted species: salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, halibut, and Puget Sound Dungeness crab—these cards are issued at no charge and must be carried when fishing those species. You’ll also evaluate whether a Two‑Pole Endorsement (pole endorsement) is necessary; it costs $20.23 and applies in designated freshwater areas. Youth under 16 fish free with an experienced adult but still must follow all regulations and carry required documentation when applicable. Dealers issue licenses, endorsements, and catch record cards instantly; you should confirm local rules and species seasons before fishing. Compliance steps: obtain license or confirm free‑with‑adult status, add pole endorsement if using two poles, obtain appropriate catch record cards, and review specific regulations. Enforcement is regulatory: inspectors will request documentation on site.
| Item | Cost | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Youth license (res) | $40.25 | Required unless fishing free with adult |
| Youth license (non) | $43.57 | Required |
| Two‑Pole Endorsement | $20.23 | Required if using two poles |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Youth Fishing Licenses Renewable Online Automatically?
Generally no, you can’t assume automatic online renewal; regulations vary by state, so you’ll need to complete the online renewal process when required. Check youth license duration and state rules to confirm deadlines and exemptions.
Can Nonresident Relatives Use a Youth License for Guardianship Trips?
Can nonresident relatives use a youth license for guardianship trips? You’ll need to check nonresident regulations; generally they can’t unless regulations explicitly allow guardianship clarification, so confirm state-specific rules and documentary proof before relying on it.
Do Youth Licenses Cover Saltwater and Freshwater Equally?
No — youth licenses often differ: you’ll need to meet saltwater regulations and freshwater requirements separately, as states/regions set distinct rules, seasons, and bag limits, so check jurisdictional statutes and agency guidance before fishing.
Are Refunds Available if a Youth Loses Interest Mid-Season?
Imagine a parent who canceled after two weeks—most agencies won’t refund; you should check refund policies. You’ll find interest refunds rare, rules vary by state, and documentation and prorated exceptions depend on regulatory provisions.
Is Parental Consent Required to Buy a Youth License Online?
Yes — you’ll need parental approval for an online purchase; regulations typically require a guardian’s consent and verifiable ID during registration. Check your state’s statutes and the vendor’s verification steps for specific documentation and age thresholds.
Conclusion
You’ve seen the rules, rates, and where to buy a junior fishing license so you can stay compliant and budget wisely. Know residency distinctions, required endorsements, and catch-report obligations to avoid fines; free fishing days can save you a bit. Keep permits current, carry documentation, and check local updates before you go — a stitch in time saves nine when regulations change. Stay informed, follow limits, and fish responsibly.
