North Dakota License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in North Dakota?
A North Dakota resident annual fishing license costs $27.00. Non-residents pay $68.00 for the same annual license.
North Dakota shares a reciprocal agreement with Minnesota on the boundary waters of the Red River and Bois de Sioux River: a license from either state covers fishing from a boat or the ice across the shared border, though anglers fishing from shore need a license from whichever state's bank they're standing on. (North Dakota Game and Fish Dept.)
North Dakota Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $27.00 | $68.00 | Plus $2 required certificate |
| 3-Day (Non-Res) | N/A | N/A | Short-term option |
| Married Couple License | $42.00 | N/A | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
A Separate Certificate Is Required With Every License
North Dakota requires a Fishing, Hunting, Furbearer Certificate alongside every license — $2 for residents, $5 for non-residents — so the real cost is always a couple dollars more than the license price alone suggests.
The Married-Couple License Is a Genuine Discount
North Dakota's married-couple license costs $42 (plus the $2 certificate), covering two anglers for less than two individual resident licenses would cost ($27 × 2 = $54) — a real discount for couples who both fish.
North Dakota Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are North Dakota'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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walleye | Year-round on most waters (2026–28 proclamation) | 14" min. (only 1 of 5 over 20") | 5/day |
| Northern Pike | Year-round on most waters | No statewide min. | 3/day |
Where to Buy a North Dakota Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, North Dakota 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.
North Dakota Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a North Dakota fishing license?
A resident license costs $27.00 plus a required $2 certificate. Non-residents pay $68.00 plus a $5 certificate for the season.
What is North Dakota's required certificate fee?
A Fishing, Hunting, Furbearer Certificate required alongside every license: $2 for residents, $5 for non-residents.
Is there a married-couple fishing license in North Dakota?
Yes, for $42 plus the $2 certificate, covering both spouses for less than two individual licenses.
Is there a senior discount in North Dakota?
Yes. Resident seniors pay $10 plus the $2 certificate, versus the standard $27 resident rate.
Where can I buy a North Dakota fishing license?
Online at gf.nd.gov, via the NDGF mobile app, or at license vendors statewide.