If you’re a fishing enthusiast planning a trip to Virginia, you’re in luck. The commonwealth of Virginia hosts an incredible array of fish species and offers some of the best fishing in the country. But before you pick up your rod and reel, it’s important to make sure you have the right permits and licenses. In Virginia, anyone 16 years old or older must have a valid fishing license in order to fish.
Who Needs a Fishing License in VA?
In the state of Virginia, anyone 16 or older must have a valid fishing license in order to legally fish. This includes both freshwater and saltwater fishing. If you’re 15 years old or younger, you can fish without a license. However, you must still abide by all other fishing regulations in the commonwealth, such as size and bag limits, season closures, and other restrictions.
Where Can You Get a Fishing License in VA?
There are two main ways to get a fishing license in Virginia: in person or online. You can get a fishing license in person at any of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources license agents located throughout the state. You can also buy a fishing license online through the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website.
Types of Fishing Licenses in VA
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources offers several types of fishing licenses, depending on your fishing needs. The most common type of license is the Virginia State Resident Fishing License, which is valid for one year. This license is for Virginia residents only and costs $23. Non-residents have the option of buying a one-day, seven-day, or annual non-resident fishing license. The non-resident annual license is $43. If you’re a senior, you can get a discounted senior fishing license for $11. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources also offers combination hunting and fishing licenses and lifetime licenses.
How Long Does a Fishing License Last in VA?
The majority of fishing licenses in Virginia are valid for one calendar year, from January 1 to December 31. However, there are exceptions. The one-day and seven-day non-resident fishing licenses are only valid for the duration of the days specified. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources also offers lifetime licenses, which are valid for the lifetime of the license holder.
Do You Need to Renew Your Fishing License in VA?
Yes, Virginia fishing licenses must be renewed every year. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources will send out a reminder before the expiration date of your license. You can renew your license online, in person, or by mail. If you choose to renew your license in person or by mail, you must submit a completed application and payment.
What Other Requirements Do You Need to Fish in VA?
In addition to a valid fishing license, you may also need to obtain other permits or tags in order to legally fish in Virginia. For example, if you plan to fish in waters managed by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, you must have a Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Access Permit. If you plan to fish in waters managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, you must have a Corps of Engineers Access Permit. In some areas, you may also need a Crab Pot License or a Trout License.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs a fishing license in VA?
Anyone 16 years old or older must have a valid fishing license in order to legally fish in Virginia.
Where can you get a fishing license in VA?
You can get a fishing license in person at any Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources license agent or online through the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website.
How long does a fishing license last in VA?
The majority of fishing licenses in Virginia are valid for one calendar year, from January 1 to December 31. However, there are exceptions.
Do you need to renew your fishing license in VA?
Yes, Virginia fishing licenses must be renewed every year. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources will send out a reminder before the expiration date of your license.
What other requirements do you need to fish in VA?
In addition to a valid fishing license, you may also need to obtain other permits or tags in order to legally fish in Virginia. For example, if you plan to fish in waters managed by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, you must have a Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Access Permit.
What is the cost of a fishing license in VA?
The cost of a fishing license in Virginia depends on the type of license you need. The Virginia State Resident Fishing License is $23 and the non-resident annual license is $43. Senior citizens can get a discounted senior fishing license for $11.
Can I fish without a license in VA?
Anyone 15 years old or younger can fish without a license in Virginia, however they must still abide by all other fishing regulations in the state.
Can I buy a lifetime fishing license in VA?
Yes, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources offers lifetime licenses. These licenses are valid for the lifetime of the license holder.
Do I need a permit to fish in VA?
It depends on the type of water you plan to fish in. If you plan to fish in waters managed by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, you must have a Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Access Permit. If you plan to fish in waters managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, you must have a Corps of Engineers Access Permit.
Can I transfer my fishing license to another person in VA?
No, fishing licenses in Virginia are non-transferable. Each person must obtain their own fishing license.
Can I get a refund for my fishing license in VA?
No, Virginia fishing licenses are non-refundable.