Missouri License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Missouri?
A Missouri resident annual fishing license costs $14.00 (Fishing permit, expires end of Feb). Non-residents pay $57.00 for the same annual license. Missouri calls it a fishing "permit," not a license, but it works the same way — and at $14 for residents, it's one of the cheapest in the Midwest.
Missouri Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $14.00 | $57.00 | Fishing permit, expires end of Feb |
| 1-Day | $9.00 | $9.00 | Single-day fishing |
| Trout Permit | $12.00 | $24.00 | See notes above |
| Youth Trout (0-15) | $6.00 | $6.00 | See notes above |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
New for 2026: A Separate Non-Resident Trout Permit
Missouri introduced a brand-new Nonresident Trout Permit ($24) for 2026, required in addition to the standard nonresident fishing permit for anyone targeting trout outside the state's trout parks. Residents still pay just $12 for the same trout privileges. Inside the four trout parks (Bennett Spring, Montauk, Roaring River, Maramec Spring), a separate daily trout tag is sold at the gate instead.
Residents 65+ Are Exempt From the Base Permit
Missouri residents aged 65 and older don't need to buy the standard $14 fishing permit at all. They still need a trout permit if they want to fish for or possess trout outside the trout parks, but the base fishing permit requirement is waived entirely.
Missouri's Four Trout Parks Run on Their Own Tag System
Bennett Spring, Montauk, Roaring River, and Maramec Spring state parks operate outside the regular trout-permit structure entirely — anglers buy a daily trout tag at the gate instead of the annual $12/$24 trout permit. It's a different product for a different use case: the annual permit is for anyone targeting trout across the state's streams and lakes over a season, while the park daily tag is a one-and-done option for a single day trip to one of the four parks.
Missouri Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Missouri'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/Spotted, combined) | Year-round, statewide default | No statewide min. | 6/day (12 possession) |
| Catfish (Channel) | Year-round, statewide default | No statewide min. | 10/day |
| Catfish (Blue & Flathead) | Year-round, statewide default | No statewide min. | 5/day each |
| Trout (permit required to keep) | Varies by trout park/area | Check current regs | Check current regs |
Where to Buy a Missouri Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Missouri 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.
Missouri Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Missouri fishing permit?
A Missouri resident annual fishing permit costs $14.00. Non-residents pay $57.00. A daily permit costs $9.00 for both residents and non-residents.
Do I need a separate trout permit in Missouri?
Yes, to fish for or possess trout outside Missouri's trout parks. It costs $12.00 for residents and $24.00 for non-residents (a new permit category as of 2026).
Are Missouri residents 65 and older exempt from fishing permits?
Yes. Residents 65+ are exempt from the standard fishing permit, though they still need a trout permit for trout outside the trout parks.
When does a Missouri fishing permit expire?
Annual fishing permits expire at the end of February each year, regardless of when during the year you purchased them.
Are there free fishing days in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri's Free Fishing Days are typically the Saturday and Sunday following the first Monday in June (June 6-7, 2026), when no permit is required.
Where can I buy a Missouri fishing permit?
Buy online through the MDC permit sales system, through the free MO Fishing mobile app, or at vendors like Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, and bait shops statewide.