Vermont License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Vermont?
A Vermont resident annual fishing license costs $28.00. Non-residents pay $54.00 for the same annual license.
A single Vermont license covers most of Lake Champlain, including the New York side of the Main Lake and South Lake, under a reciprocal agreement (a New York license works the Vermont side too, aside from four bays that lie wholly within one state). A similar arrangement covers the Connecticut River shared with New Hampshire. (Vermont Statutes (10 V.S.A. §4609))
Vermont Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $28.00 | $54.00 | Resident annual (ages 18-65) |
| Youth (15-17) | N/A | N/A | Short-term option |
| Youth (15-17) | $8.00 | $15.00 | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
Nobody Under 15 Needs a License At All
Vermont doesn't require any fishing license for anglers under 15 — not even a free youth license, just no requirement whatsoever. The youth license ($8 resident / $15 non-resident) only applies starting at age 15.
The Combined Hunt & Fish License Is a Quiet Bargain
A Vermont resident combination hunting and fishing license costs $47 — barely more than the $28 standalone fishing license would suggest, effectively bundling in hunting access for not much extra. Worth considering if you might hunt even occasionally.
Vermont Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Vermont'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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brook Trout | Most waters, general season | 12" min. | 5/day |
| Lake Trout | Most waters, general season | 24" min. | 1/day |
| Bass (Largemouth/Smallmouth) | Most waters, general season (Lake Champlain has separate slot limits) | 10–12" min. (varies by water) | 5/day |
| Panfish (combined) | Year-round | No min. | 50/day (no more than 25 crappie) |
Where to Buy a Vermont Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Vermont 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.
Vermont Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Vermont fishing license?
A resident annual license (ages 18-65) costs about $28.00. Non-residents pay about $54.00.
Do young anglers need a license in Vermont?
No, anyone under 15 fishes free with no license required. Ages 15-17 need a youth license ($8 resident / $15 non-resident).
Is there a combined hunting and fishing license in Vermont?
Yes. A resident combo license costs about $47.00; non-resident combo is about $143.00.
How long is a Vermont resident license valid?
Vermont also offers a 5-year resident license option covering multiple seasons from one purchase.
Where can I buy a Vermont fishing license?
Through the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department's online licensing system, or at town clerk offices.