North Dakota is a popular destination for enthusiastic Walleye anglers, and with over 400 lakes and rivers, there’s plenty of freshwater action to take. It’s not just Walleye lurking below the surface either, with Catfish, Salmon, Perch, Northern Pike, and many other fish just waiting for you.
But before you cast a fishing line, you’ll need to grab a fishing license. While you’re purchasing your fishing license, it pays to brush up on the local rules and regulations that govern the area you plan on fishing in and your target species.
In the following guide to North Dakota Fishing Licenses, we’ll cover:
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Types of ND Fishing Licenses
North Dakota has several different fishing licenses available depending on who you are, your residential status, and how long you plan on fishing for. The different license types include:
North Dakota Resident Fishing Licenses
- Annual Fishing License;
- Husband and Wife;
- Youth 16-17;
- Senior Citizen;
- Military Active Duty;
- Paddlefish Tag.
North Dakota Non-Resident Fishing Licenses
- 3 Day Fishing License;
- 10 Day Fishing License;
- Annual Fishing License;
- Husband and Wife;
- Youth 16-17;
- Senior Citizen;
- Paddlefish Tag.
Cost of North Dakota Fishing Licenses
Below, we have a detailed breakdown of both resident and non-resident fishing license costs. For more information and to check the latest rules and information, please visit the North Dakota Department of Fish and Game website.
North Dakota Resident Fishing Licenses
- Annual Fishing License – $18;
- Husband and Wife – $24;
- Youth 16-17 – Free;
- Senior Citizen – $5;
- Military Active Duty – $18;
- Paddlefish Tag – $10.
North Dakota Non-Resident Fishing Licenses
- 3 Day Fishing License – $28;
- 10 Day Fishing License – $38;
- Annual Fishing License – $48;
- Husband and Wife – $63;
- Youth 16-17 – $10;
- Senior Citizen – N/A;
- Paddlefish Tag – $25.50.
Age Requirements for ND Fishing License
Anyone planning on fishing in North Dakota aged 16 or above must have a fishing license before they cast a line. This is a requirement for both residents and non-residents. Regardless of whether you live in North Dakota or just visiting, if you want to go fishing, you’ll need to buy a license first.
Residents of North Dakota under the age of 16 are not required to purchase a fishing license. However, while non-residents under the age of 16 don’t need a fishing license, they must be accompanied by an adult with a valid North Dakota fishing permit.
Where to Obtain a ND Fishing License
Getting a North Dakota fishing license is easy, with four convenient purchasing options. This includes:
- Online – The fastest and easiest way to purchase a fishing permit in North Dakota is to go online and visit the North Dakota Department of Fish and Game website.
- Mobile App – If you have downloaded the NDGF mobile app, you can use it to purchase your fishing license. You can download the NDGF app here.
- In-Person – For those who prefer to buy their license in person, you can do so at one of the many conveniently located licensed retailers or directly from any NDGF office during business hours. Get a complete list of authorized retailers here.
- By Phone – You can also phone and get your fishing permit at (701) 328-6335.
Purchasing a valid North Dakota fishing license is quick and easy, so you can spend more time on the water and less time filling out paperwork.
Complete Guide to North Dakota Fishing Licenses | Conclusion
There you go! You need to know everything about North Dakota fishing licenses, including how much they cost, who needs to purchase one, and where and how to buy them. The last thing you want is to get caught out on the water without proof of a valid fishing license, whether you are a resident of North Dakota or not.
When you purchase a fishing license, a large percentage of those fees goes directly back into the fishery, funding research, fish stocking, habitat management and improvement, and facility upgrades for boat ramps and other fish-related facilities. If we all do our part by following season, size, and bag limits, we’re all ensuring future generations of anglers get to enjoy North Dakota fishing for many years to come.
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If you have any questions about Maine fishing licenses or would like to learn more about Maine permits, please don’t hesitate to drop a comment below, and if you found it helpful, give it a share!