Nevada Fishing Licenses

Nevada fishing licenses are a required credential for anglers who plan to remove fish from any of the state’s many bodies of water. Factors that affect the type of license anglers must apply for include the applicant’s age, residency status, the type of fish being caught and the length of time the fishing license is valid for. Each license to fish is issued by the Nevada Department of Wildlife to both residents and visitors. The Department of Wildlife offers two fishing license options to prospective fishermen in the state of Nevada: a general recreational fishing license and the commercial fishing permit for fishing guides. The general recreational fishing license affords anglers the ability to fish for sport in all state-sanctioned bodies of water. Given that Nevada is an inland state, the general recreational fishing license is also considered the equivalent of a freshwater fishing permit in other states. On the other hand, a Nevada commercial guide permit allows anglers to provide guide-related services for hunting and fishing in state-sanctioned waters and wildernesses. Each license to fish has a separate fishing license application process that can be completed online, over the phone, in person or through the postal service. To further familiarize yourself with the processes of buying recreational fishing licenses or commercial fishing permits for both residents and non residents, take a look at the information provided in the sections below:

General Nevada recreational fishing license
Commercial fishing permit for fishing guides

New Nevada Fishing License

Prior to buying a recreational fishing license in Nevada, anglers must first learn about the various options for fishing licenses in the state. The Nevada Department of Wildlife offers both resident fishing licenses to anglers that live in the state and non resident fishing licenses to visitors. The department offers licenses with a wide range of validity periods, from one day to a full year depending on your preference and – in the case of visitors – the amount of time you will be spending in Nevada. Fishing license fees in Nevada vary significantly in price based on the type of license, with the bulk of the price corresponding to the length of the license’s validity. Residential fishing permits are available at a discount to various groups of anglers including seniors 65 years of age or older who have lived in Nevada for at least five years and Nevada residents who are active-duty military members. The Department of Wildlife also offers resident and non resident children between 12 and 15 years of age the junior fishing license.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife offers anglers four options for completing the recreational fishing license application. To buy fishing licenses online, visit the NV Department of Wildlife website and click on the Online License Store. Anglers can also buy fishing licenses by calling the fishing license purchase hotline at 1-866-703-4605. To buy fishing licenses in person, visit a local NV Department of Wildlife office or an authorized licensing agent. Mail fishing license orders require anglers to download and print a NV fishing license application, complete it and mail it to the closes regional Department of Wildlife office (addresses available on the application form).

Nevada Commercial Fishing License

Unlike other states that allow anglers to obtain a license to fish commercially in public waters, Nevada commercial fishing permits are not meant for fishing but rather to guide others who fish for sport. The NV Department of Wildlife offers only one commercial license, known as the commercial fishing guide license. The commercial fishing guide permit allows angling experts to provide guide-related services in both hunting and fishing to residents and non residents of Nevada. To obtain a commercial fishing guide license, applicants must first meet the requirements for experience as a guide. To gain experience, the Department of Wildlife offers two grades for the commercial fishing guide license: Master Guide an Sub-guide. Sub-guides are mentored by Master Guides, shaping them into experts in the field. Once you have the experience, complete a commercial fishing license application form and submit it in person along with the appropriate licensing fees to a local Department of Wildlife office.

To find out more about commercial fishing guides and how to start the commercial fishing license application process, contact the Nevada Department of Wildlife.

Fishing Frequently Asked Questions

Can I obtain a fishing license online?

Oftentimes you can buy a fishing license through your state’s fishing department website. You will most likely need to create an account on the webpage and have a printer nearby to finalize your transaction. Make sure to also have a valid credit card on hand, as no other form of payment is accepted by state departments online. Take note that, as proof of your residency, you may be required to enter your driver’s license number.

What kinds of fishing permits are available for purchase?

In a general sense, a good number of states offer the following types of fishing licenses: a regular fishing license and a commercial fishing license. Depending on where you reside, you may also have the option to get a saltwater license to fish, if you are by coastal waters. In addition to these permits, you may be required to buy a fishing stamp, depending on the specific type of fish species you intend to catch.

How long is a fishing license good for?

A regular fishing permit is often valid for the period of a full year. However, you may also have the option to obtain a license to fish that is good for 24 hours or 72 hours, for example. In some instances, a weekly fishing license or a lifetime license may also be available. Lifetime licenses to fish are the most suitable option for those anglers who intend to fish for the duration of their lives. Keep in mind that if you would like to continue fishing after the expiration date of your current licensure, you will be required to get a new permit to fish.

What are the costs associated with a license to fish?

The fees related to a state fishing license may vary, depending on a few factors. But senior residents and military veterans can usually get a fishing license that is free of charge, as long as they can present official documentation that supports their residency or military service. Resident licenses to fish are often more affordable than nonresident licenses. The most costly licenses are for those who would like to get lifetime credentials.

How can I replace a lost fishing license?

In the event that you have lost your fishing license or it was stolen, the most common way to obtain a duplicate is through your state’s fishing department. You may be required to make an in-person visit to a nearby office or to contact a licensed agent directly. Depending on where you reside, you may also have the option to order a fishing permit replacement online. But, to be sure, it is important that you double check with your state department first, as you may also need to bring in certain documentation, such as your driver’s license or ID card.

Recreational Fishing License