The beautiful island state of Hawaii is arguably home to some of the best saltwater fishing in the world, not to mention hundreds of miles of pristine coastlines, reefs, and beaches. It’s a saltwater angler’s paradise, but what type of fishing licenses or permits do you need to fish in Hawaii? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered in our complete guide to Hawaii fishing licenses!
In the following guide to Hawaii Fishing Licenses, we’ll cover:
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Types of Fishing Licenses
The state of Hawaii offers a variety of different angling permits for both resident and non-resident anglers. Before you hit the water, fresh or saltwater, it’s essential to check with the Division of Aquatic Resources State of Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources to ensure that you have the correct license and know all season, size, and bag limits.
All anglers, resident and non-resident must have a permit to fish in freshwater. Anglers under the age of 9 may fish with a licensed angler.
- Please note: Many shoreline and freshwater areas in Hawaii are private property. You must obtain permission from the landowner to access these areas.
Popular Public Fishing Areas include:
- Kaua‘i: Koke‘e, Wailua
- O‘ahu: Wahiawā
- Hawai‘i: Waiākea
Hawaii Resident Fishing License Types
- Minor
- Resident
- Senior
Hawaii Non-Resident Fishing License Types
- Non-Resident
- Non-Resident 7-Day
- Non-Resident 30-Day
Cost of Fishing Licenses
To help make fishing as accessible as possible to residents, non-residents, tourists, and visitors to the state of Hawaii, the Division of Aquatic Resources State of Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources has set a very affordable price for fishing licenses. So, how much is a fishing license in Hawaii?
Please Note: All anglers, both residents and non-residents, must have a permit to fish in freshwater. Anglers under the age of 9 may fish with a licensed angler. Many shoreline and freshwater areas in Hawaii are private property. You must obtain permission from the landowner to access these areas.
Resident Hawaii Fishing License Types
- Minor – $4.00
- Resident – $6.00
- Senior – $1.00
Non-Resident Hawaii Fishing License Types
- Non-Resident – $26.00
- Non-Resident 7-Day – $11.00
- Non-Resident 30-Day – $21.00
All money raised from fishing licenses purchased in Hawaii goes directly back into the ongoing health and well-being of the Hawaii fishery. By buying a fishing permit and following all season, bag, and size limits imposed by the DAR, you’re ensuring that future generations of anglers get to enjoy the same fantastic fishing opportunities in Hawaii that we get to enjoy today.
Age Requirements for Fishing License
In Hawaii, all anglers over the age of 15 must purchase a fishing permit if they want to fish in any freshwater locations throughout the state.
Minors between the ages of 9 and 15 can fish for free but must obtain a permit, and all anglers under the age of 9 can fish without a permit when they are accompanied by an angler with a license.
Where to Obtain a Fishing License
In Hawaii, there are three convenient ways to purchase a fishing license. These include:
- Purchased online via the DAR Online Portal here.
- Purchased in-person at one of the many DAR offices during regular business hours.
- Purchased in-person at one of the many authorized agents located conveniently throughout the state.
Complete Guide to Hawaii Fishing Licenses – Conclusion
There you go! Everything you need to know about Hawaii fishing licenses and permits, including what types are available, how much they cost, and where to buy them.
When you purchase a fishing permit or license in Hawaii, it ensures that the fishing opportunities we currently enjoy continue for many generations. A percentage of all fishing and hunting permit fees go directly back into research, protection, and habitat preservation, ensuring all anglers for many years to come can enjoy the same great angling opportunities we enjoy today.
The Fishbox App allows anglers to accurately track weather conditions and predict the best time to go fishing. Fishbox App utilizes in-depth analysis of weather patterns, fish behavior, and tidal and lunar conditions to predict the best times to go angling and when you’re better off relaxing at home.
If you have any questions about Hawaii fishing licenses or would like to learn more, please don’t hesitate to drop a comment below, and if you found it helpful, give it a share!