TOLEDO, Ohio — Ohio is home to some of the best fishing in the Midwest and anglers have already made their way to northwest Ohio this season.
All Ohioans 17 years and older are required to have a fishing license to take fish from state waters. Here's everything you need to know about fishing licenses in the Buckeye State.
Where can I buy a license?
You can purchase a fishing license from the Ohio DNR Division of Wildlife here. Licenses are valid for 365 days after the purchase date and can be renewed up to 30 days before the expiration date.
You can also buy a license at various retail locations. A map of those locations can be found here.
How much does a license cost?
Prices vary depending on the length of time for which a license is valid. Residents can purchase a license for as little as a day or as long as a lifetime.
Prices are:
Resident Licenses
Resident 1-Day License: $14.00
Resident 1-Year Upgraded from a 1-Day License: $12.00
Resident 1-Year License: $25.00
Resident 3-Year License: $72.11
Resident 5-Year License: $120.18
Resident 10-Year License: $240.36
Resident Lifetime License: $599.04
Resident Senior Licenses
Resident 1-Year License: $10.00
Resident 3-Year License: $27.04
Resident 5-Year License: $45.07
Resident Lifetime License: $84.24
Nonresident Licenses
Nonresident 1-Day License: $14.00
Nonresident 1-Year License Upgraded from a 1-Day: $37.44
Nonresident 3-Day License: $25.00
Nonresident 1-Year License: $50.96
What about free licenses?
Yes, certain individuals qualify for a free fishing license. If you meet certain criteria, a separate application must be submitted.
Those eligible for a free license include:
- Ohio residents born on or before December 31, 1937 can obtain a free license at any license outlet or online.
- The following Ohio residents are also eligible for a free license, but must submit a formal application (Form DNR 9032), which is available by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543).
- Persons who are mobility impaired and required the assistance of another person to cast and retrieve.
- Holders of veteran license plates displaying the international wheelchair symbol.
- Certain veterans who are permanently disabled.
- Residents of state and county institutions.
- Former prisoners of war.
RELATED VIDEO