Massachusetts License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Massachusetts?
A Massachusetts resident annual fishing license costs $40.00. Non-residents pay $50.00 for the same annual license.
Massachusetts has no combined license — MassWildlife issues the freshwater license while the separate Division of Marine Fisheries issues the saltwater permit, so anglers fishing both need to buy both. Residents 70+, ages 15–17, and anglers who are blind or paraplegic qualify for a free freshwater license. (Commonwealth of Massachusetts)
Massachusetts Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $40.00 | $50.00 | Freshwater resident annual |
| 1-Day | N/A | N/A | Short-term option |
| Wildlands Conservation Stamp | $5.00 | $5.00 | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
A Conservation Stamp Rides Along With Your First License
Massachusetts adds a $5 Wildlands Conservation Stamp to the first resident license you buy each calendar year, and to every non-resident license. It's not optional, so the effective first-purchase cost is a few dollars higher than the sticker price.
The Saltwater Age Break Runs the Opposite Direction
Most states give seniors a break on the freshwater license. Massachusetts's saltwater permit flips that: it's free for anglers 60 and older, and $10 for everyone younger — a rare setup where the age discount applies specifically to saltwater, not freshwater.
Massachusetts Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Massachusetts'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 (combined species) | April 1 – September 10 (higher limit); September 11 – March 31 (reduced limit) | No statewide min. | 8/day (only 3 from lakes/ponds/major rivers) Apr–Sep; 3/day Sep–Mar |
| Panfish (crappie, bluegill, perch, pumpkinseed) | Year-round | No min. | No statewide limit |
| Striped Bass (saltwater) | Year-round, slot limit | 28–31" slot | 1/day |
Where to Buy a Massachusetts Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Massachusetts 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.
Massachusetts Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Massachusetts fishing license?
A resident freshwater annual license costs $40.00. Non-residents pay $50.00.
What is the Wildlands Conservation Stamp?
A required $5 add-on charged on your first resident license purchase each year, and on every non-resident license.
Is saltwater fishing free in Massachusetts?
It's free for anglers 60 and older. Anglers under 60 pay a $10 saltwater permit.
When do Massachusetts fishing licenses expire?
December 31 of each year.
Where can I buy a Massachusetts fishing license?
Through the MassFishHunt portal online, by phone, or at authorized agent locations.