Fishing in Minnesota is a beloved pastime for both residents and visitors alike. With over 10,000 lakes teeming with a variety of fish species, it’s no wonder why.
However, you’ll need a valid Minnesota fishing license before you can cast your line into the pristine waters of the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
This guide will provide you with all the necessary information about obtaining a Minnesota fishing license in 2023.
How to Get a Minnesota Fishing License
Getting a Minnesota fishing license is a straightforward process. You can purchase a license online through the Minnesota DNR website or in person at various locations, including DNR license agents, county auditors, and select retail stores. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get your fishing license:
- Determine the Type of License You Need: Minnesota offers different types of fishing licenses based on your residency status, age, and the duration you plan to fish. Decide whether you need an individual license, a family license, or a short-term license.
- Visit the Minnesota DNR Website or a License Agent: You can purchase your fishing license online through the Minnesota DNR website. Alternatively, you can visit a DNR license agent, county auditor, or select retail stores.
- Provide Necessary Information: You’ll need to provide some personal information, such as your name, address, and Social Security number. Non-residents will also need to provide their passport number or driver’s license number.
- Pay the License Fee: Pay the required fee for your fishing license. You can pay by credit card if you’re purchasing online or by cash or check if you’re purchasing in person.
- Print or Receive Your License: If you purchase your license online, you’ll have the option to print your license immediately. If you purchase in person, you’ll receive a printed license.
Remember, your fishing license is valid from March 1 to the last day of February the following year.
Cost of Fishing Licenses in Minnesota
The cost of a Minnesota fishing license depends on several factors, including your age, residency status, and the type of license you’re purchasing. Here are the costs for some of the most popular fishing licenses as of 2023/2024:
- Resident Individual Angling License (Code 111): $25.00
- Resident Combination Angling License (Married Couple, Code 112): $40.00
- Non-Resident Individual Angling License (Code 121): $51.00
- Non-Resident Family Angling License (Code 124): $68.00
Please note that these prices do not include any additional fees or the $1 agent fee. For a complete list of fishing license costs, visit the Minnesota DNR website.
Here are the fishing license costs for Minnesota in 2023, formatted into tables for easy reading:
Resident Licenses & Fees:
| Resident Licenses | Fee |
|---|---|
| Angling – 24-hour Code 110 (r) | $12.00 |
| Angling – 3 year Individual – Code 141 (r) | $71.00 |
| Angling – 72 Hour – Code 140 (r) | $14.00 |
| Angling – combination (Married Couple) (r) – Code 112 | $40.00 |
| Angling – dark house rental (r) – Code 120 | $30.00 |
| Angling – dark house shelter (r) – Code 119 | $15.00 |
| Angling – individual (r) – Code 111 | $25.00 |
| Angling – military (r) | None |
| Angling – spearing from the dark house (r) – Code 113 | $10.00 |
| Angling Dark House 3-Year Rental (r) – Code 132 | $6.00 |
| Angling – 3-year Individual – Code 141 (r) | $87.00 |
| Angling Dark House 3 Year – Code 131 | $42.00 |
| Angling Youth Ages 16 to 17 – Code 138 (r) | $5.00 |
| Conservation combo angling (r) – Code 106 | $27.00 |
| Conservation individual angling (r) – Code 105 | $17.00 |
| Disability permit – angling/spearing permanent (r) | None |
| Disability permit – angling/spearing special annual (r) – Code 107 | None |
| Fishing tournament license | Varies |
| Lifetime angling renewal (r) – Code 411 | None |
| Lifetime Resident Angling/Deer/Small Game/Sports/Spearing | Varies |
| Sports – combination (r) – Code 217 | $57.00 |
| Sports – individual (r) – Code 216 | $41.00 |
| Stamp – trout (validation & pictorial) – Code 129 | $10.75 |
| Stamp – trout validation – Code 128 | $10.00 |
| Stamp – walleye pictorial- voluntary – Code 135 | $5.75 |
| Stamp – walleye validation- voluntary – Code 134 | $5.00 |
| Angling – Netting white tullibee herring (r) – Code 115 | Varies |
| Sturgeon tag (r) – Code 130 | $5.00 |
| Super Sports Combination – Code 143 | $126.00 |
| Super Sports Individual – Code 142 | $100.00 |
Non-Resident Licenses & Fees:
| Non-Resident Licenses | Fee |
|---|---|
| Angling – 14-day couple (nr) -Code 125 | $54.00 |
| Angling – 24-hour Code 139 (nr) | $14.00 |
| Angling – 7-day (nr)- Code 126 | $43.00 |
| Angling – 72-hour (nr)- Code 127 | $36.00 |
| Angling – family (nr) – Code 124 | $68.00 |
| Angling – individual (nr) – Code 121 | $51.00 |
| Angling – shelter (nr) – Code 116 | $37.00 |
| Angling – shelter 7-day (nr) – Code 117 | $21.00 |
| Angling – spearing |
Minnesota Fishing Regulations
Fishing in Minnesota is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. These regulations are in place to protect and manage the state’s fish populations. Here are some key regulations to keep in mind:
- Catch and Release: Certain fish species must be released if caught. The DNR provides a list of these species.
- Bait Restrictions: Certain types of bait are prohibited to protect local fish populations and prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Fishing Seasons: Fishing seasons vary depending on the type of fish. Make sure to check the DNR’s fishing seasons page for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Fishing Seasons in Minnesota
Minnesota’s fishing seasons vary by species. Here are some of the key fishing seasons:
- Northern Pike, Sauger, Walleye: May-February
- Lake and Stream Trout – Winter (entirely within the BWCA): December-March
- Bullhead, Burbot (eelpout), Channel catfish, Cisco (tullibee), Crappie, Gar, Other, Perch, Rock bass, Smelt, Sunfish, White bass: March-February
- Flathead Catfish: April-November
- Lake Trout: May-September
- Largemouth Bass (Northeastern Minnesota): May-February
- Largemouth Bass – Catch-and-Release (Statewide except for the northeast): May-May
- Smallmouth Bass (Northeastern Minnesota): May-February
- Smallmouth Bass – Catch-and-Release (Statewide except for the northeast): May-May
- Muskellunge: June-December
- Sturgeon – Catch-and-Release: June-April
- Lake Trout (Lakes entirely within the BWCA): December-March
- Lake Trout (Lakes partially or completely outside the BWCA): January-March
Please note that these dates are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check the Minnesota DNR website for the most current information.
Changes in Minnesota Fishing Laws in 2023
As of 2023, there have been some changes to the fishing laws in Minnesota. It’s important to stay updated on these changes to ensure that you’re fishing legally and responsibly. The Minnesota DNR website is the best source for the most recent changes to fishing laws and regulations.
FAQ
How much is a ticket for fishing without a license in Minnesota?
The fine for fishing without a license in Minnesota is not less than $100 or more than $3,000, and potentially imprisonment in a county jail for not less than 90 days or more than one year.
Do Veterans get a free fishing license in Minnesota?
To get a free fishing license in Minnesota, you have to provide proof of a 100% service-related disability, after which you can obtain a free Small Game License (code 241)
Do you need a social security number to get a fishing license in Minnesota?
Yes, you will need to provide your social security number at some point to get a fishing license in Minnesota
Conclusion
Fishing in Minnesota is a rewarding experience, but it’s important to make sure you’re doing it legally and responsibly. That means getting a valid fishing license, understanding the regulations, and following the fishing seasons. By doing so, you’re helping to protect and preserve Minnesota’s valuable fish populations for future generations to enjoy. Happy fishing!
