While preparing for a fishing adventure to Lake Walcott in central Idaho, I needed to make sure I purchased a fishing license for my trip. I wasn’t sure where to buy one and how much it cost. So, I did some research on the different fishing licenses in Idaho and here is what I found.
So, how much does a Idaho fishing license actually cost? Like most states, Idaho has different price points for the many different kinds of fishing and hunting licenses offered. On average an Idaho fishing license costs anywhere from $30 to $98, depending on the length and residency status.
The different types of licenses provide anglers with varying price options to help fit their individual needs and allows the state to monitor and enforce fishing regulations.
For additional information about the cost of each license, where to find/buy your fishing license, and the different fishing regulations in Idaho continue reading on below.
Fishing License Cost in Idaho
Like most states, there are a variety of different packages and discounts offered to help fit the needs of everyone. Idaho offers discounts to military, disable, juniors and in some instances seniors as well.
Here is a list of all the fishing licenses and how much they cost for both residents and non-residents.
Cost of Fishing Licenses in Idaho
| Resident Fishing License Fees | ||
|---|---|---|
| Item(s) | Cost | Locked Price |
| Fishing – Adult 1 Year | $30.50 | $25.75 |
| Fishing – Adult 3 Year | $73.75 | $30.50 |
| Fishing – Daily | $13.50 | $11.50 |
| Fishing – Junior (14-17 yrs.) | $13.75 | $13.75 |
| Fishing – Junior (14-17 yrs.) – 3 Year | $37.75 | $13.50 |
| Military – Fishing (Residents only) | $20.50 | $17.50 |
| Fishing – Disabled Persons | $5.75 | $5.00 |
| Salmon or Steelhead | $15.25 | $12.75 |
| Fishing – Two-pole | $15.00 | $13.75 |
| Combination – Adult Fishing and Hunting – 1 Year | $38.75 | $33.50 |
| Combination – Adult Hunting and Fishing – 3 Year | $ 97.00 | $ 97.00 |
| Combination – Senior Hunting and Fishing (65+ yrs) | $ 13.75 | $ 11.75 |
| Combination – Senior Hunting and Fishing (65+ yrs) – 3 Year | $ 33.50 | $ 31.75 |
Locked Price is away for Idaho anglers to receive a 20% discount for those that held a 2017 annual license. For more information about the Price Lock Discount click here.
In Idaho there is a separate license and additional regulations when fishing for salmon and steel head. There are also specific season limits in several waters that are put into place to help protect, maintain and restore fish populations.
Idaho also offers nonresident and lifetime fishing license. For more information about these continue reading.
| Non Resident Fishing License Fees | |
|---|---|
| Item | Cost |
| Fishing – Adult 1 Year | $98.25 |
| Fishing – Adult 3 Year | $291.25 |
| Fishing – Daily (first day) | $15.00 and $7.00 for each consecutive day |
| Fishing – Junior (14-17 yrs.) | $21.75 |
| Fishing – Junior (14-17 yrs.) – 3 Year | $61.75 |
| Salmon/Steelhead – 3 Day | $37.50 |
| Combination Fishing and Hunting – 1 Year | $240.00 |
| Combination Fishing and Hunting – 3 Year | $715.50 |
| Fishing Two-Pole Permit | $15.50 |
It’s also important to note that as of May, 2017 a new $10.00 Access/Depredation Management fee will be required to purchase ad Adult Nonresident annual fishing or hunting license(s) and the fee for a 3-year license is double.
Lifetime Licenses
Idaho offers life time licenses for adults, infants and seniors. See below for the details of each lifetime license.
Adults Lifetime License (Ages 2-50)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Lifetime Fishing | $841.75 |
| Lifetime Hunting | $386.75 |
| Life Time Combination | $1113.00 |
Infants Lifetime License (Ages 0-1)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Lifetime Fishing | $601.75 |
| Lifetime Hunting | $276.75 |
| Life Time Combination | $795.50 |
Seniors Lifetime License (Ages 51+)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Lifetime Fishing | $636.75 |
| Lifetime Hunting | $221.75 |
| Life Time Combination | $636.75 |
Anyone that is of the age of 14 and older must have a license while fishing in Idaho waters. Also, additional permits are required for anglers planning on fishing for Chinook salmon or steelhead.
If you are planning on hunting and fishing in the same season you should consider purchasing the combination license and save yourself some money.
It’s extremely important to understand and stay up with the regulations and rules. You can find this information on the Idaho’s Department of Fish and Game website.
It’s also important to note that if you are lucky enough to catch a sturgeon they must be released upon landing and can not be removed from the water.
Content Credit: idfg.idaho.gove/licenses
Where You Can Purchase Your Idaho Fishing License?
Nowadays you are able to purchase your fishing license(s) online, which is super convenient and helpful.
To find your fishing license visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game Website.
You can also purchase a fishing license at authorized vendors such as Big 5, Walmart and different outfitters, or at the regional office and with a credit card by phone.
Unfortunately, there is a processing fee for applications made online and by phone.
Idaho fishing licenses are available for purchase online, by the phone, or at a license retailer.
To find an authorized Idaho vender close to you, check out this website to see what options are available.
If you are planning on fishing and need your license within 10 days than I would recommend buying your license through a vendor in the State of Idaho because your license may not get to you in time.
If you are buying a daily fishing license that will be used within seven days of your purchase, they will not send you a license in the mail, but you can print and use your confirmation number that you receive at the end of your purchase as your license.
Idaho Fishing Regulations
In the state of Idaho there are many laws, rules and regulations when it comes to fishing. There are a lot of things outside of just purchasing a fishing license that you need to be aware of. Here are some general Idaho fishing guidelines.
General Fishing Regulations
Fishing in any type of water, whether it be a river, pond, lake or reservoir requires a fishing in the state of Idaho. Any person 14 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license or permit to fish for fish, crayfish and bullfrogs in Idaho.
A standard fishing license permits a person to use 1-pole. A person who has a valid resident or nonresident fishing license may purchase a two-pole permit. This permit allows anglers to use two poles at the same time .
In Idaho it’s illegal to transport and release live fish as this can have serious adverse effects on fish populations and fishing.
If you have any additional question or concerns about the rules and regulations of fishing in Idaho, be sure to check out Idaho’s online handbook at: https://idfg.idaho.gov/rules/fish
Fish to Catch in Idaho
Here is a list of all the game fish that are legal to catch in Idaho incase you are wondering what kind of fish you can target.
Game Fish in Idaho
- Trout (Brook, Brown, Bull, Cutthroat, Golden, Lake (Mackinaw), Rainbow (including Steelhead))
- Splake and Sunapee Trout
- Trout hybrids (e.g. Tiger Trout);
- Salmon (Atlantic, Chinook, Coho, Kokanee, and Sockeye Salmon)
- Arctic Grayling
- Whitefish
- Cisco
- Crappie
- Perch
- Bass (Smallmouth, Largemouth)
- Catfish
- Bullhead
- Sunfish
- White Sturgeon
- Northern Pike
- Tiger Muskie
- Walleye
- Sauger
- Burbot (Ling)
- Crayfish are also consider game fish in Idaho
Nongame Fish that are protected in Idaho
- Bluehead Sucker
- Sculpin (Bear Lake, Shoshone, and Wood River)
- Sand Roller
- Leatherside Chub
- Bluehead Sucker (also considered Green Sucker)
- Pacific Lamprey
Related Questions
How much is a nonresident fishing license in Idaho?
An annual nonresident fishing license in Idaho is $98.25. A nonresident daily license is $15.00 and $7.00 for each consecutive day.
How much is a 1 day fishing license in Idaho?
A 1 day resident Idaho fishing license is $13.50 at the regular price and $11.50 for the locked in price. A 1 day nonresident Idaho fishing license is $15.00 for the first day and $7.00 for each consecutive day.
Can you fish with corn in Idaho?
In the State of Idaho you are permitted to use corn, with the exception in no-bait water. In no-bait water only flies and lures can be used.
Can you buy Idaho fishing license online?
Yes, you can buy an Idaho fishing license online on the Idaho Department of Fish and Game site. You can find the website to buy your Idaho fishing license be selecting here.
Is it illegal to fish at night in Idaho?
In general, there are no hour limits to fishing in Idaho and you can fish all night. Night fishing in Idaho is not only legal, but its actually fairly popular for anglers targeting catfish and other species. However, make sure to check the latest fishing regulations for the areas you plan on fishing on idfg.idaho.gov.
