The combination senior fishing license in Washington State is a comprehensive permit for residents aged 65 and older. It allows fishing in freshwater and saltwater, as well as harvesting shellfish and seaweed. This license costs $19.05 and includes a Vehicle Access Pass for WDFW lands and boat launches. Seniors must be Washington residents for at least 90 days and provide proof of residency. The license can be purchased online, by phone, or in person at authorized dealers.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for a Combination Senior Fishing License in Washington State?
To obtain a combination senior fishing license in Washington State, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: 65 years or older
- Residency: Washington state resident for at least 90 days
- Proof of residency:
- Valid Washington state driver’s license or identification card
- Military ID with orders showing Washington as current duty station (for military personnel)
- Not licensed to hunt or fish as a resident in another state or country
How Much Does the Combination Senior Fishing License Cost?
The combination senior fishing license in Washington State is priced at $19.05. This fee covers:
- Freshwater fishing
- Saltwater fishing
- Shellfish harvesting
- Seaweed collection
While the base license is affordable, seniors should be aware of potential additional costs:
| Endorsement | Purpose | Additional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Two-Pole Endorsement | Allows use of two fishing poles | Varies |
| Puget Sound Crab Endorsement | Required for crabbing in Puget Sound | Varies |
It’s important to note that these endorsements are optional and only necessary for specific activities.
Where and How Can Seniors Apply for the Combination Fishing License?
Seniors have multiple options for obtaining their combination fishing license in Washington State:
- Online:
- Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) online licensing system
- Create an account or log in to an existing one
- Select the combination senior fishing license
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Complete the application and payment process
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By Phone:
- Call 360-902-2464
- Provide necessary information to the representative
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Pay with a credit card
-
In-Person:
- Visit a local license dealer or WDFW office
- Bring proof of age and residency
- Complete the application and pay on-site
Processing times vary depending on the method chosen:
- Online and phone purchases: Up to 10 days for physical license delivery
- In-person purchases: Immediate issuance of license
For online and phone purchases, a temporary license is emailed if the applicant’s WILD ID has an associated email address.
What Benefits Come with the Combination Senior Fishing License?
The combination senior fishing license in Washington State offers several advantages:
- Comprehensive Coverage:
- Freshwater fishing
- Saltwater fishing
- Shellfish harvesting
-
Seaweed collection
-
Vehicle Access Pass:
-
Free access to WDFW lands and boat launches
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Cost-Effective:
- Single fee covers multiple fishing activities
-
No need for separate licenses for different water bodies or species
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Convenience:
- One license for various fishing pursuits
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Reduced paperwork and administrative hassle
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Extended Validity:
- License is valid for the entire license year (April 1 – March 31)
It’s important to note that while the combination license is comprehensive, seniors still need to comply with catch record card requirements for certain species like salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and Puget Sound Dungeness crab.
Are There Any Restrictions or Special Regulations for Senior License Holders?
While the combination senior fishing license provides extensive privileges, there are some important considerations:
- Catch Record Cards:
- Required for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and Puget Sound Dungeness crab
-
Must be obtained and filled out accurately
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Fishing Regulations:
- Senior license holders must adhere to all general fishing regulations
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This includes bag limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures
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Additional Endorsements:
- May be required for specific activities (e.g., Two-Pole Endorsement)
-
Not included in the base license fee
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Area-Specific Rules:
- Some water bodies may have special regulations
-
Seniors should check local rules before fishing in a new area
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License Renewal:
- The combination senior license must be renewed annually
- Renewal can be done through the same channels as the initial purchase
How Can Seniors Make the Most of Their Combination Fishing License?
To maximize the benefits of the combination senior fishing license in Washington State, consider the following tips:
- Explore Diverse Fishing Opportunities:
- Try both freshwater and saltwater fishing
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Experiment with shellfish harvesting and seaweed collection
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Utilize the Vehicle Access Pass:
- Visit various WDFW lands and boat launches
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Discover new fishing spots across the state
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Stay Informed:
- Regularly check WDFW website for updates on regulations and fishing reports
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Attend local fishing clinics or workshops for seniors
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Join Fishing Groups:
- Connect with other senior anglers
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Share experiences and learn new techniques
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Practice Conservation:
- Follow catch and release guidelines when appropriate
- Report any observed violations to help preserve fish populations
By taking advantage of these opportunities, seniors can enjoy a rich and varied fishing experience throughout Washington State.