Mississippi License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Mississippi?
A Mississippi resident annual fishing license costs $17.00. Non-residents pay $60.00 for the same annual license.
In Mississippi, whether you need a saltwater or freshwater license depends on which highway you're fishing near, not just how salty the water is: a saltwater license is required south of Highway 90, either license works between Highway 90 and Interstate 10, and only a freshwater license is needed north of I-10. (Mississippi Dept. of Marine Resources)
Mississippi Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $17.00 | $60.00 | Freshwater resident annual |
| 3-Day (Non-Res, Freshwater) | N/A | $30.00 | Short-term option |
| Saltwater Annual (Res) | $10.00 | $30.00 | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
| Senior Freshwater (65+) | Exempt | N/A | No license required at all |
Residents 65+ Are Fully Exempt From a Freshwater License
Mississippi residents 65 and older are exempt from purchasing a freshwater fishing license entirely under state law — no fee required. A voluntary $5 one-time Senior Exempt card is available to carry as proof of the exemption and support conservation funding, but it isn't mandatory. Saltwater fishing still requires a separate one-time lifetime license (around $5–$8.49) for residents 65+.
Freshwater and Saltwater Are Priced Separately
Mississippi's $17 resident license only covers freshwater. Saltwater requires its own $10 resident annual license (or $30 for non-residents), and the $45 Sportsman bundle combines both plus hunting for residents who want everything in one purchase.
Mississippi Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Mississippi'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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | Year-round (most waters) | Varies by lake | 10/day (statewide default; some lakes carry slot limits) |
| Crappie | Year-round | Varies by lake (e.g. 11" at Horseshoe Lake) | Varies by lake (e.g. 20/day at Horseshoe Lake, Lake Mary Crawford, Simpson County Lake) |
Where to Buy a Mississippi Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Mississippi 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.
Mississippi Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Mississippi fishing license?
A resident freshwater annual license costs $17.00. Non-residents pay $60.00.
Do Mississippi seniors get a discount?
Better than a discount — residents 65+ are exempt from purchasing a freshwater fishing license entirely. A voluntary $5 one-time Senior Exempt card is available but not required.
Is saltwater fishing covered by Mississippi's regular license?
No. Saltwater requires a separate $10 resident annual license ($30 for non-residents).
What is the Mississippi Sportsman license?
A $45 resident bundle combining freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, and hunting into one license.
Where can I buy a Mississippi fishing license?
Through MDWFP at mdwfp.com/licenses-permits, their mobile app, or by phone.