Maryland License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Maryland?
A Maryland resident annual fishing license costs $32.00. Non-residents pay $55.00 for the same annual license.
Anglers fishing the Chesapeake Bay or tidal Potomac who don't need Maryland's paid Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing license can instead get a free Maryland Saltwater Angler Registration, which also satisfies their federal registration requirement so they don't have to separately register with NOAA. (Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources)
Maryland Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $32.00 | $55.00 | Non-tidal (freshwater) annual |
| 3-Day (Non-Res, Non-Tidal) | N/A | $35.00 | Short-term option |
| Tidal (Chesapeake) Annual | $15.00 | $22.50 | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
Non-Tidal and Tidal Licenses Are Priced Differently
Maryland's non-tidal (freshwater) license runs $32 resident / $55 non-resident, while the tidal license covering the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters is cheaper at $15 resident / $22.50 non-resident. Anglers who only fish the Bay can skip the pricier non-tidal license entirely.
The Trout Stamp Is a Substantial Add-On
A Maryland trout stamp costs $20 for residents and $30 for non-residents — a significant add-on relative to the base non-tidal license price, required for anyone targeting trout in Maryland's freshwater fisheries.
Maryland Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Maryland'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, combined) | Closed March 1 – June 15 (catch-and-release permitted); open rest of year | 12" min. (illegal to possess 11–15" at any time) | 5/day, 10 possession |
| Brook Trout | Catch-and-release only, statewide, year-round | N/A — no harvest allowed | 0/day (release only) |
| Striped Bass (ocean, coastwide) | Year-round, slot limit | 28–31" slot | 1/day |
Where to Buy a Maryland Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Maryland 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.
Maryland Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Maryland fishing license?
A resident non-tidal (freshwater) annual license costs $32.00. Non-residents pay $55.00. Tidal (Chesapeake Bay) licenses are cheaper at $15/$22.50.
What's the difference between tidal and non-tidal licenses in Maryland?
Non-tidal covers freshwater lakes and rivers; tidal covers the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters. They're priced and sold separately.
Do I need a trout stamp in Maryland?
Yes, if targeting trout: $20 for residents, $30 for non-residents, in addition to the non-tidal license.
When did Maryland's non-tidal fees change?
Fees increased in 2025 for the first time in nearly 20 years, and those rates carry through 2026.
Where can I buy a Maryland fishing license?
Online through Maryland OneStop, or wherever fishing licenses are sold statewide.