Renew Your Washington Fishing License Hassle-Free
Fishing in Washington State offers a unique experience, with a diverse range of fishing opportunities available. However, before you can enjoy the state’s top fishing spots, you need to ensure you have a valid Washington fishing license. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to Renew your Washington fishing license hassle-free, ensuring you can continue to enjoy the state’s fishing opportunities without interruption.
Why Do You Need a Fishing License in Washington?
In Washington, everyone aged 15 and older needs a recreational fishing license. This requirement is in place to help manage and protect the state’s fish populations and their habitats, ensuring sustainable fishing opportunities for future generations. There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as youth aged 14 and younger, adults assisting youth if they are not fishing/harvesting themselves, and anglers fishing on the state’s free fishing weekend, which is always the first weekend after the first Monday in June.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Washington
There are several types of annual licenses available in Washington, depending on where you plan to fish and other outdoor activities you may participate in. The costs of these licenses depend on whether you’re a resident or non-resident of the state of Washington. Here are the types of licenses available:
- Get Outdoors Washington License: This package includes an annual fishing license, certain endorsements, and hunting for specific game. Available to residents only, the cost is $236.18.
- Fish Washington Fishing License: This type of license is an annual combination license for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, some endorsements, and certain catch record cards. Only for residents, the fee is $79.62.
- Combination Washington Fishing License: This license allows you to fish in both freshwater and saltwater bodies of water. Residents are charged $55.35 and $19.05 for those 70 or older. The fee for non-residents is $124.65.
- Freshwater Washington Fishing License: A freshwater license allows you to fish in freshwater areas only. The cost for residents is $29.50 and $7.50 for those 70 or older. For non-residents, the fee is $84.50.
- Saltwater Washington Fishing License: You can fish in saltwater areas only with this type of license. Residents pay $30.05 for this license or $8.05 for those 70 or older, and non-residents pay $59.75.
- Shellfish/Seaweed Washington Fishing License: This type of license gives you the ability to fish species such as razor clams, red rock crab, mussels, oysters, and others. Residents pay $17.40 with seniors paying $7.50, and non-residents are charged $36.10.
- Razor Clam Washington Fishing License: If you plan to harvest razor clams, you’ll need this type of license. For residents, even those 70 and older, the cost is $14.10. Non-residents pay $21.80.
It’s important to note that there are discounted fees available to certain individuals. You may qualify for a reduced fee if you are a resident or non-resident veteran with a service-related disability of 30% or more, a resident or non-resident veteran 65 or older with a service-related disability, a resident who permanently uses a wheelchair, a resident who is blind or visually impaired, or a resident who has a developmental disability.
Where to Buy Your Fishing License
Washington offers several different ways to purchase a fishing license:
- Online: One of the most convenient ways to buy your Washington fishing license is online 24/7 at the state’s Department of Fish and Wildlife website.
- By Phone: You can buy your license by phone Monday-Friday by calling (866) 246-9453.
- At an Authorized Dealer: There are several authorized dealers throughout the state where you can Get your license. The Department of Fish and Wildlife website provides the ability to search for a dealer near you.
How to Renew Your Washington Fishing License
Renewing your Washington fishing license is a straightforward process. You can Renew your license online, by phone, or at an authorized dealer, just like when you first purchased it. When renewing online or by phone, it may take up to 10 days to receive your license in the mail. If your WILD ID has an email address associated with it, you will be emailed a temporary license to use for that 10-day period. There are no temporary catch record cards or tags. If you need immediate use of a catch record card or tag, please visit a local license dealer to make your purchase.
Conclusion
Having a valid fishing license is essential for anyone planning to fish in Washington State. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, understanding the licensing requirements and knowing how to Renew your license hassle-free is crucial. With this guide, you should now be equipped with all the information you need to Renew your Washington fishing license and enjoy the state’s diverse fishing opportunities.