To obtain a fishing license, the general requirements and steps include:
- Personal Identification : You often need to provide personal details such as your date of birth and sometimes a National Insurance number (UK) or Social Security number (US) for verification purposes.
- Age Considerations : Children under a certain age (e.g., under 13 in England and Wales) usually do not need a license. Junior licenses may be available for free or at a reduced cost for children aged 13 to 16.
- Payment : You must pay the applicable fee for the license, which varies by region and license type (e.g., 1-year, 3-year, or lifetime licenses). Payment is typically made by debit or credit card if applying online.
- Permission from Land or Fishery Owner : Besides the fishing license, you need permission or a permit from the landowner or fishery owner where you intend to fish.
- Application Methods : Licenses can often be applied for online, by phone, or in person at designated offices or service centers.
- Additional Permits : In some cases, additional permits or endorsements may be required for specific types of fishing or locations (e.g., lock and weir fishing permits on the River Thames).
- License Presentation : You must carry your fishing license (physical or electronic) and present it when requested by authorities or landowners.
For example, in England and Wales, you need a rod fishing license plus permission from the landowner or fishery owner, and junior licenses are free for children aged 13 to 16
. In the US state of Washington, everyone aged 15 and older needs a license and must provide their Social Security number when purchasing it
. In New South Wales, Australia, a recreational fishing license is required if you are 18 or over and want to fish in state waters; you need to provide the start date, duration, and payment when applying
. In summary, to get a fishing license you typically need:
- Proof of identity and age
- Payment for the license fee
- Permission from the landowner or fishery owner
- To apply via an approved method (online, phone, or in-person)
- To carry the license while fishing
Specific requirements and exemptions vary by country and region, so it is advisable to check local regulations before fishing
