Ohio fishing is always different because of the various fish species its waters hold. However, you cannot fish in Ohio if you do not have a license from the Ohio Division of Wildlife. So, are you ready to procure the fishing license in Ohio? Below is what you need to know.
Fishing License In Ohio
In Ohio, the primary aim has always been to conserve and improve fish resources by the Ohio Division of Wildlife for sustainability. To ensure proper protection, anglers are required to purchase a fishing license. Therefore, you cannot fish if you do not have one.
Only individuals who are 16 years and above are permitted to buy. The fishing license allows you to fish in Ohio water. Furthermore, anglers who fish in privately owned ponds, lakes, and reservoirs must get a fishing license. Finally, an Ohio fishing license allows you to take species such as turtles and frogs from private or public property. Please remember that you must always have an up-to-date Ohio fishing license, especially when you are challenged to provide one. The permit is displayed through a mobile device.
Exemptions In Ohio Fishing License
Some individuals may not provide Ohio State Fishing License under certain conditions. Individuals that fall under exemptions:
- Anglers fish in privately owned waters (lakes, ponds, etc.) where fish do not migrate.
- People who assist anglers who are physically impaired or blind do not need to apply as long as they are helping and are holding just one line.
- Individuals who fish take frogs or turtles on land and water where they or their parents parent to where they live and derive their daily income from agricultural production on the land except the state-owned lake.
- Anglers who fish on free fishing days.
- Active members of the Armed Forces during leave or furlough.
Once you fall into any of these categories, you are exempted. However, size and bag limits still apply.
Categories of Fishing License
You will find the type of fishing license you need when purchasing an Ohio Fishing License. It does not matter whether you are a resident or not:
For Residents:
- One-day Fishing License (there is an upgrade option)
- One-year Fishing License
- Three-year Fishing License
- Five-year Fishing License
- Ten-year Fishing License
- Lifetime Fishing License
For Non-Residents:
- One-day Fishing License (including an upgrade option)
- Three-day Fishing License
- One-year Fishing License
- Lake Erie Fishing Permit
Please note that you must have lived in Ohio for the past six months before you are qualified as a resident.
Ohio Fishing License Fees
Ohio fishing license fees can change each year, but for 2021, the rates are as follows:
Residents:
- One-Day Fishing License ($14)
- One Year Upgraded from a 1-Day Fishing License: ($12)
- One-Year Fishing License: ($25) ($10 for seniors)
- Three-Year Fishing License: ($54.08) ($28.60 for seniors)
- Five-Year Fishing License: ($90.22) ($47.58 for seniors)
- Ten-Year Fishing License: ($180.44)
- Lifetime Fishing License: ($46) ($430.56 for youth below 16 and $84.24 for seniors)
Non-residents:
- One-Day Fishing License: ($14)
- One-Year License Upgraded from a 1-Day Fishing License: ($37.44)
- Three-Day Fishing License: ($25)
- One-Year Fishing License: ($50.96)
- Lake Erie Fishing Permit: ($11)
Buying Ohio Fishing License All you need to do is log on to the Division of Wildlife Website (wildohio.gov), or you can purchase through a state sales agent. Once you purchase, it will be emailed to you quickly; there is no need to print it. All you need to do is display it on your mobile device when asked to show it. You must show proof of age and residency whenever you want to buy.