Georgia License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Georgia?
A Georgia resident annual fishing license costs $15.00 (365 days from purchase). Non-residents pay $50.00 for the same annual license. Georgia keeps its base license cheap, but two things aren't included by default: mountain trout fishing and saltwater fishing each need their own add-on, so check both before you head out.
Georgia Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $15.00 | $50.00 | 365 days from purchase |
| 1-Day | $5.00 | $10.00 | Single-day fishing |
| Trout Add-On | $10.00 | $25.00 | See notes above |
| Extra Day (Non-Res) | N/A | $3.50 | See notes above |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
Trout Needs an Add-On, Saltwater Needs a Free Permit
Fishing for trout in North Georgia's mountain streams requires a separate trout license — $10 for residents, $25 for non-residents — on top of the base fishing license. Saltwater anglers along the Georgia coast need the free Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit in addition to the basic license; it's free, but it's not optional if you're fishing coastal waters.
One of the Cheapest Annual Licenses in the Country
At $15 for residents, Georgia's annual license is among the least expensive in the Southeast — cheaper than Tennessee, South Carolina's saltwater rate, and well below the national average. Non-residents at $50 still get a fair deal, especially with the flexible $10 one-day option plus $3.50 for each additional consecutive day.
Visiting for a Week? Do the Math on Extra Days
For a non-resident on a multi-day trip, the $10 one-day-plus-$3.50-per-additional-day structure beats buying separate day licenses. A 5-day trip works out to $10 + (4 × $3.50) = $24 — less than half of what five separate one-day licenses at $10 each would cost ($50). It only pays off if the days are consecutive, though; the extra-day rate is priced as an add-on to a single continuous license, not a standalone product.
Georgia Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Georgia's default statewide season windows and bag/size limits for the most commonly targeted species. Many individual lakes, rivers, and reservoirs carry their own special regulations that override these defaults — always confirm the rules for your specific water before you fish.
| Species | Season | Min. Size | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trout (delayed harvest waters) | Closed to harvest November – last Saturday in March (artificial lures, catch-and-release only) | N/A during closure | 0/day during closure |
| Trout (catch-and-release streams) | Year-round, artificial lures only | N/A — no harvest allowed | 0/day (release only) |
| Bass (most reservoirs) | Year-round, general season | Varies by reservoir | Varies by reservoir |
Where to Buy a Georgia Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Georgia fishing licenses are typically available at Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and Dick's Sporting Goods locations statewide, along with independent bait & tackle shops. Call ahead if you need a specific license type (combination, lifetime, or trout stamp) since not every retail counter carries every product.
Georgia Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Georgia fishing license?
A Georgia resident annual fishing license costs $15.00 and is valid for 365 days from purchase. Non-residents pay $50.00 for the annual license or $10.00 for a single day, with additional days at $3.50 each.
Do I need a trout license in Georgia?
Yes, in addition to the base fishing license. Mountain trout fishing requires a $10 trout license for residents or $25 for non-residents.
Do I need a permit for saltwater fishing in Georgia?
Yes — the free Saltwater Information Program (SIP) permit is required in addition to your basic fishing license for Georgia coastal saltwater fishing.
Is there a senior discount for Georgia fishing licenses?
Yes. Georgia residents 65 and older qualify for a discounted Senior Sportsman's license, and residents born before July 1, 1952 are eligible for a free lifetime license.
When does a Georgia fishing license expire?
Georgia annual licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, not a fixed calendar date.
Where can I buy a Georgia fishing license?
Buy online at GoOutdoorsGeorgia.com, by phone at 800-366-2661, or through local license agents statewide.