Fishing licenses are valid for a period of one year, starting from April 1 and ending on March 31 of the following year. It is required that an angler holds a valid fishing license for the specific season they are fishing in.

Individuals who are residents or nonresidents aged 16 and above are required to have fishing licenses. Residents under the age of 16 are permitted to catch and possess a limited amount of fish without a fishing license. Similarly, nonresidents under 16 may also catch and possess fish without a nonresident fishing license if accompanied by someone with a valid fishing license.

North Dakota residents who are on active duty with the United States military and are on leave are exempted from needing a fishing license. For further information, individuals can contact the Department.

Full-time nonresident students living in North Dakota and attending a state or tribal college or a private institution of higher education may be eligible to purchase resident fishing licenses. Details regarding eligibility can be obtained by contacting the Department.

It is mandatory for the fishing license holder to have the license on their person at all times while fishing. A digital copy of the fishing license stored on a mobile device is considered a valid form of possession.

Please note: we do have a few free fishing days for Residents of North Dakota, during these periods residents will not be required to have a resident fishing license. those dates will be accessible on the North Dakota Game and fish website.