Michigan is considered by many anglers to have some of the best fishing in the United States, with access to fantastic fishing opportunities for anglers of all experience levels and ages. However, before you cast a line in the water, you must have the correct Michigan fishing licenses and permits. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
In the following guide to buying a fishing license in Michigan, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including:
If you plan on fishing in Michigan, check out Michigan Fishing Seasons: Your Comprehensive Guide!
If you want to find the best fishing locations in Michigan and you’re not from Michigan or just moved there, you’ll need a little help. You’ll need the premium Fishing App. Thanks to the Fishbox App, you’ll know the perfect time to go fishing in Michigan and when you’re better off washing your boat or organizing your fishing tackle box.
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Types of Michigan Fishing Licenses
There are a variety of different fishing licenses that you’ll need to fish in Michigan. Fishing license fees and permits can be adjusted each year, so be sure to check in with the DNR website to get the latest prices.
Michigan Resident Fishing Licenses:
- Daily Michigan Fishing License.
- Annual Michigan Fishing License.
- Annual Michigan Senior Fishing License.
- Annual Michigan Youth Fishing License (Voluntary).
Michigan Non-Resident Fishing Licenses:
- Daily Michigan Fishing License.
- Annual Michigan Fishing License.
- Annual Michigan Youth Fishing License (Voluntary).
If you are over the age of 17, you must purchase a fishing license if you want to fish in Michigan. If you’re under 17, there is a voluntary fishing permit. If an adult actively assists a youth angler without a license, the adult must have a valid fishing license.
Michigan’s fishing license season runs from March 1st of a given year to March 31st of the following year.
Cost of Michigan Fishing Licenses
There are a variety of different fishing licenses that you’ll need to fish in Michigan. Fishing license fees and permits can be adjusted each year, so be sure to check in with the DNR website to get the latest prices.
The purchase of a fishing license pays back into the sustainability of Michigan’s natural fishing resources. It ensures that future generations of anglers can enjoy the same fantastic fishing we enjoy in Michigan today.
Michigan Resident Fishing Licenses:
- Daily Michigan Fishing License – $10 (you set the start time).
- Annual Michigan Fishing License $26.
- Annual Michigan Senior Fishing License – $11.
- Annual Michigan Youth Fishing License (Voluntary) – $2.
Michigan Non-Resident Fishing Licenses:
- Daily Michigan Fishing License – $10 (you set the start time).
- Annual Michigan Fishing License – $76.
- Annual Michigan Youth Fishing License (Voluntary) – $2.
Children under the age of 17 are exempt from requiring a fishing license in Michigan. However, there is a $2 voluntary license available for youth anglers. Youth anglers are still required to observe and follow all season, size, and bag limits when fishing in Michigan.
Michigan’s fishing license season runs from March 1st of a given year to March 31st of the following year.
Where to Obtain a Michigan Fishing License
The easiest and most convenient way to purchase a Michigan fishing license is via the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website. Once on the website, you can also replace a lost, stolen, or damaged fishing license.
If you don’t have online access to the DNR website, you can also purchase your Michigan fishing license from one of the many license agents located throughout Michigan or at one of the Department of Natural Resources Customer Service Centers nearest to you.
To purchase a Michigan fishing license, you’ll need:
- A valid Michigan driver’s license or identification card.
- A valid driver’s license from your state of residency or
- A DNR Sport card.
When you buy your Michigan fishing permit online, you’ll have the opportunity to automatically renew your license for the following year.
Complete Guide to Michigan Fishing Licenses – Conclusion
There you go! Everything you wanted to know about Michigan fishing licenses, including what type of licenses are available in Michigan, how much Michigan fishing licenses cost, and where to buy a fishing license if you plan on hitting the water in Michigan.
While fishing licenses are a legal requirement, they’re much more than that. Most states, including Michigan, put a lot of the money from fishing permits back into the conservation and preservation of natural resources, fish stocking, habitat improvement, and access. If we want future generations to be able to enjoy fishing in Michigan like we do, it’s essential that we all play our part.
The advanced technology in the Fishbox App will allow you to accurately track weather conditions and predict the best times to hit the water in Michigan. Fishbox App combines predictive fish behavior with weather, lunar, and tidal conditions to deliver optimal Michigan freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities.
Get your personalized fishing map
Answer a quick quiz and get your own personalized fishing map
The Fishbox App was developed in collaboration with accurate weather data and expert fish behavioral analysis. These advanced forecasts will significantly increase your catch rate while reducing your time on the water.
If you have any questions about fishing licenses in Michigan, including where to buy a Michigan fishing permit, please don’t hesitate to comment below!
