Ohio Fishing Licenses: A Comprehensive Guide to Permits and Regulations

If we want to protect the fantastic fishing in Ohio, it’s vital that we all do our part as responsible anglers and a key  component of that is purchasing a fishing license. Funds from licenses and permits contribute directly to ensuring that future generations of anglers get to enjoy the same fantastic angling that we do.

In the following guide to buying a fishing permit in Ohio, we’ll cover everything you need
to know, including:

● Types of Fishing Licenses
● Cost of Fishing Licenses
● Age Requirements for Fishing License
● Where to Obtain a Fishing License

Even the best angler will need some assistance finding the best fishing spots, especially if you’re on a destination fishing  holiday. Thanks to the premium Fishbox App, you’ll know the perfect time to go fishing or when you’re better off sleeping  in and enjoying an excellent hot breakfast with the family. 

Types of Fishing Licenses

In Ohio, there are several different options regarding the fishing licenses available to anglers. These include both resident and non-resident licenses.

Ohio Resident Permits

● 1 Day (Includes an upgrade option if you wish to upgrade to an annual license).
● 1 Year (Annual).
● 3 Years.
● 5 Years.
● 10 Years.
● Lifetime.

To qualify as a resident and purchase a resident fishing license, you must have lived in the state of Ohio for the past six  consecutive months.

Ohio Non-Resident Permits

● 1 Day (Includes an upgrade option if you wish to upgrade to an annual license).
● 3 Days.
● 1 Year (Annual).

For more information about Ohio fishing licenses, you can visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.

Cost of Fishing Licenses

In Ohio, there are several different options when it comes to the fishing licenses
available to anglers. These include both resident and non-resident licenses.

Ohio Resident Permits

● $14 – 1 Day (Includes an upgrade option if you wish to upgrade to an annual
license).
● $25 – 1 Year (Annual).
● $72.11 – 3 Years.
● $120.18 – 5 Years.
● $240.36 – 10 Years.
● $599.04 – Lifetime.

In order to qualify as a resident and purchase a resident fishing license, you must have lived in the state of Ohio for the  past six consecutive months.

Resident Senior Licenses

● Resident 1 Year – $10.00.
● Resident 3 Year – $27.04.
● Resident 5 Year – $45.07.
● Resident Lifetime – $84.24.

Ohio Non-Resident Permits

● $14 – 1 Day (Includes an upgrade option if you wish to upgrade to an annual license).
● $25 – 3 Days. ● $50.96 – 1 Year (Annual).

For more information about Ohio fishing licenses, you can visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.

Age Requirements for Fishing License

Ohio offers several exemptions to fishing license requirements, including:

● Anglers under the age of 16 are not required to purchase a license.
● Anyone fishing in private ponds, lakes, dams, or reservoirs which do not have
any fish migration.
● Anyone assisting a disabled or impaired angler as long as both anglers are using
only one rod between them.
● Anglers fish on land and water where they or their parents are tenants on which
they live and from which they derive most of their income from agricultural
production on that land (except state-owned lakes).
● Members of the Armed Forces on active duty while on leave or furlough
Ohio also offers several free fishing days each year. On June 15 th and 16 th , 2024, all
Ohio residents are invited to experience the fantastic public fishing opportunities
available to them without purchasing a license. Please note that all sizes and daily limits
still apply during these two days.
Where to Obtain a Fishing License
Ohio offers several convenient ways for anglers to purchase a fishing license, including:
● Online via the Ohio Division of Wildlife website. A copy of your license will be
emailed to you after purchase. You can either print a copy of this license or carry
a digital copy on your smartphone.
● In person at various authorized license sales agents located conveniently
throughout the state.

If you’re trying to purchase a lifetime or multi-year license, you can purchase it online, but you will need to have your Ohio  river’s license or state ID. You also have the option of going to the Division of Wildlife office or mail in a paper  application. Proof of age and residency are both required at the time of purchase..A multi-year permit can also be purchased at an agent location, but some restrictions may apply.

Complete Guide to Ohio Fishing Licenses – Conclusion

There you go! Everything you ever wanted to know about fishing licenses in Ohio, including the different types, age  requirements, how to purchase, and where to purchase them from. By following size limits, bag limits, and season limits  and purchasing the appropriate licenses, we’re all ensuring the ongoing health and wellness of the fishing habitat for  future generations of anglers.

Fishbox utilizes premium forecasting technology that allows anglers to accurately track weather conditions and predict  the best time to go fishing. It uses in-depth analysis of weather patterns, fish behavior, and tidal and lunar conditions to  tell you the best time to go fishing.

If you have any questions about fishing licenses or permits in Ohio, including how to buy one or the different types  available, drop a comment below.