Illinois License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Illinois?
An Illinois resident annual fishing license costs $15.00. Non-residents pay $31.50 for the same annual license.
Illinois requires two separate water-specific stamps on top of the base license: a Lake Michigan Salmon Stamp for salmon or trout from Lake Michigan, and a distinct Inland Trout Stamp for trout everywhere else — and both expire March 31 each year, regardless of when the base license was bought. (Illinois Compiled Statutes)
Illinois Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $15.00 | $31.50 | Resident annual |
| 24-Hour (Non-Res) | N/A | $10.50 | Short-term option |
| Trout/Salmon Stamp | $6.50 | $6.50 | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
Illinois Has Two Separate Senior Discount Tiers
Most states use one senior cutoff age. Illinois uses two: residents 65-74 pay $7.75, and residents 75 and older pay just $1.50 — a much steeper discount than the standard $15.00 rate that most other states only offer a single reduced tier for.
The Trout/Salmon Stamp Applies on Both Sides of the State
Illinois requires a $6.50 stamp for either the Inland Trout program or Lake Michigan salmon fishing — the same price whether you're fishing a small stocked inland trout stream or Lake Michigan's salmon run, and required for residents and non-residents alike.
Illinois Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Illinois'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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bass (Largemouth/Smallmouth) | Year-round, statewide default | No statewide min. | 6/day |
| Walleye | Year-round, statewide default | 14" min. (except Mississippi & Wabash Rivers) | 6/day |
| Crappie | Year-round, statewide default | No statewide min. (some waters 9") | No statewide limit (some waters reduced) |
Where to Buy a Illinois Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Illinois 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.
Illinois Fishing License — FAQs
How much is an Illinois fishing license?
A resident annual sport fishing license costs $15.00. Non-residents pay $31.50 for the annual license.
Is there a senior discount in Illinois?
Yes, in two tiers: residents 65-74 pay $7.75, and residents 75+ pay just $1.50.
Do I need a stamp for trout or salmon in Illinois?
Yes. The Inland Trout Stamp and Lake Michigan Salmon Stamp both cost $6.50 and are required in addition to the base license.
When does the Illinois license year start?
March 1. Licenses bought before that date belong to the prior license year and expire March 31.
Where can I buy an Illinois fishing license?
Online through ExploreMoreIL, or at license vendors statewide.