The Annual Fish Washington fishing license is a comprehensive package that allows residents to enjoy freshwater and saltwater fishing, as well as shellfish and seaweed harvesting throughout the state. This license includes various endorsements and is valid from April 1 to March 31 of the following year. For residents, it costs $69.55 and covers a wide range of fishing activities. Non-residents have different options for purchasing licenses.
What Does the Annual Fish Washington Fishing License Include?
The Annual Fish Washington fishing license for residents is an all-inclusive package that provides:
- Freshwater fishing license
- Saltwater fishing license
- Shellfish and seaweed harvesting license
- Puget Sound Dungeness crab endorsement
- Two-pole endorsement
This comprehensive license allows anglers to enjoy various fishing activities across Washington state without the need for multiple separate licenses.
How Much Does the Annual Fish Washington Fishing License Cost?
The cost of the Annual Fish Washington fishing license varies depending on residency status:
| Residency Status | Cost |
|---|---|
| Residents | $69.55 |
| Non-residents | N/A (separate licenses required) |
For non-residents, there isn’t a specific ‘Fish Washington’ package. Instead, they need to purchase individual licenses:
- Freshwater fishing license: $84.50
- Saltwater fishing license: $59.75
- Shellfish/seaweed license: $36.10
Additional endorsements may be required depending on the type of fishing activities planned.
Where Can I Purchase the Annual Fish Washington Fishing License?
You have several options for purchasing your Annual Fish Washington fishing license:
- Online: Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website (fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov) for 24/7 access.
- By Phone: Call (866) 246-9453 during business hours, Monday through Friday.
- Authorized Dealers: Find a local dealer through the Department of Fish and Wildlife website.
What Documents Do I Need to Buy the Annual Fish Washington Fishing License?
To purchase your license, you’ll need:
- A valid form of identification
- Payment method (credit/debit card for online and phone purchases)
- Personal information (name, address, date of birth)
When Does the Annual Fish Washington Fishing License Expire?
The Annual Fish Washington fishing license is valid from April 1 to March 31 of the following year. This means:
- You can purchase the license at any time during the year
- The license will expire on March 31, regardless of when you bought it
- It’s recommended to renew your license before April 1 to ensure continuous coverage
What Fishing Regulations Should I Be Aware Of?
While the Annual Fish Washington fishing license grants you access to various fishing activities, it’s crucial to be aware of and follow all fishing regulations:
- Size Limits: Many fish species have minimum and/or maximum size restrictions.
- Bag Limits: There are daily and possession limits for different species.
- Seasonal Restrictions: Some fisheries are only open during specific times of the year.
- Area-Specific Rules: Regulations can vary depending on the body of water or region.
Always check the current Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet or the Department of Fish and Wildlife website for the most up-to-date regulations before fishing.
How Do I Renew My Annual Fish Washington Fishing License?
Renewing your Annual Fish Washington fishing license is a straightforward process:
- Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website (fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov)
- Log in to your account or create a new one if you haven’t before
- Select the ‘Fish Washington’ license package
- Verify your personal information
- Make the payment
- Print your license or save it on your mobile device
Remember, you can renew your license up to 90 days before it expires, ensuring you’re ready for the new fishing season.
Are There Any Exemptions from Needing an Annual Fish Washington Fishing License?
Yes, there are some exemptions from needing a fishing license in Washington:
- Children under 15 years old
- Seniors over 70 who have lived in Washington for at least one year (for freshwater fishing only)
- Disabled veterans with a service-connected disability of 30% or more
- Residents with developmental disabilities or blindness
However, even exempt anglers must follow all fishing regulations, including size and bag limits.
What Additional Endorsements Might I Need with My Annual Fish Washington Fishing License?
While the Annual Fish Washington fishing license includes many endorsements, there are some additional ones you might need:
- Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement: Required for fishing for salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River and its tributaries.
- Coastal Salmon Punch Card: Needed for salmon fishing in coastal waters.
- Halibut Catch Record Card: Required for halibut fishing.
These endorsements can be purchased separately or added to your license at the time of purchase.
By understanding the details of the Annual Fish Washington fishing license, you can ensure you’re properly licensed and prepared for a great year of fishing in Washington’s diverse waters.