Virginia License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in Virginia?
A Virginia resident annual fishing license costs $23.00 (Freshwater annual). Non-residents pay $47.00 for the same annual license. Virginia splits freshwater and saltwater licensing between two different agencies — DWR handles freshwater, VMRC handles saltwater — so anglers fishing both need two separate licenses.
Virginia Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $23.00 | $47.00 | Freshwater annual |
| 1-Day | N/A | $8.00 | Single-day fishing |
| Saltwater Annual | $17.50 | $25.00 | See notes above |
| Senior (65+) | $9.00 | N/A | See notes above |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
Freshwater (DWR) and Saltwater (VMRC) Are Separate Agencies
A standard Virginia freshwater license from DWR doesn't cover tidal or saltwater fishing. Anglers fishing the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia Beach, or the Atlantic Ocean need a separate Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) saltwater license — $17.50 for residents, $25.00 for non-residents. Fish both, and you'll need both licenses.
A Discounted Senior Rate, Not a Free License
Virginia residents 65 and older qualify for a discounted freshwater fishing license at $9.00 — well below the standard $23.00 resident rate, though not free. Residents 65+ are exempt from needing a saltwater license entirely, though Fisherman Identification Program (FIP) registration is still required.
The Trout License Is Flat-Rate — and Seasonal
Unlike most add-on permits, Virginia's trout license costs the same $23.00 whether you're a resident or non-resident, and it's only required from October 1 through June 15 in designated stocked trout waters. Fishing those same waters in summer (June 16–September 30) doesn't require the trout add-on, so timing your trip can save you the fee entirely if trout aren't the target.
Virginia Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are Virginia'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 (stocked waters) | October 1 – June 15 in designated stocked waters | 7" min. (some waters 9") | 6/day |
| Bass (Largemouth/Smallmouth) | Year-round | 12" min. | 5/day |
| Striped Bass (coastal) | Jan. 1 – Mar. 31 and May 16 – Dec. 31 | Varies by water | Varies by water |
Where to Buy a Virginia Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, Virginia 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.
Virginia Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a Virginia fishing license?
A Virginia resident freshwater annual license costs $23.00. Non-residents pay $47.00 for the same freshwater license. Saltwater licenses are separate: $17.50 for residents and $25.00 for non-residents.
Do I need separate licenses for freshwater and saltwater in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia DWR issues freshwater licenses and the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) issues saltwater licenses separately — anglers fishing both need both.
Is there a senior discount for Virginia fishing licenses?
Yes. Virginia residents 65 and older can get a discounted freshwater license for just $9.00 (down from the standard $23.00), and are exempt from needing a saltwater license (though FIP registration still applies).
Do I need a trout license in Virginia?
Yes, if fishing designated stocked trout waters between October 1 and June 15. The trout license costs $23.00 for both residents and non-residents as of the 2026 fee update.
When does a Virginia fishing license expire?
Virginia resident and non-resident licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase, unless otherwise noted for short-term options.
Where can I buy a Virginia fishing license?
Buy online through Go Outdoors Virginia at HuntFishVA.com, by phone at (804) 367-1000, or through license agents and some circuit court clerks statewide.