Planning a fishing trip to Indiana’s lakes and rivers means understanding the state’s licensing rules before you cast your line. Anyone 18 years or older needs a valid fishing license to fish in Indiana’s public waters, whether you’re a resident or visitor. The only exceptions are Indiana residents born before April 1, 1943, who can fish without a license.
Getting your license doesn’t have to be complicated. You can purchase licenses online, in person, or by mail, with several options designed for different fishing plans and budgets. Understanding which license type fits your needs and how much it costs will help you stay legal and avoid penalties.
This guide walks you through everything about fishing license requirements in Indiana. You’ll learn about the different license types available, who qualifies for exemptions, where to buy your license, and what you’ll pay based on your residency status and fishing plans.
Types of Fishing Licenses Available in Indiana
Indiana offers several fishing license options to match different needs and situations. You can choose between annual licenses that last for one year or lifetime licenses that never expire.
Annual License Options
The most common choice is the annual resident fishing license for Indiana residents. If you live out of state, you’ll need a non-resident annual fishing license instead. Both options let you fish in public waters throughout Indiana for one year from the date of purchase.
Lifetime License Programs
Indiana provides lifetime fishing licenses for those who want permanent coverage. You can purchase a lifetime fishing license at various age brackets, with prices that increase as you get older. The senior fish for life license gives residents born before April 1, 1943, the option to support conservation efforts even though they qualify for an exemption.
Specialized Licenses
A one-day fishing license works well if you only plan to fish occasionally. You might also need additional stamps or permits depending on what species you’re targeting. The Sport License Finder tool helps identify which specific licenses and stamps you need based on your fishing plans.
Age-Based Options
Young anglers under 18 don’t need a license to fish in Indiana. Seniors born before April 1, 1943, can fish without buying a license, though they may choose to purchase a voluntary senior fishing license to support conservation programs.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Indiana
If you’re 18 years old or older, you need a valid fishing license to fish in Indiana‘s public waters. This applies to both residents and non-residents.
The age requirement is straightforward. Anyone under 18 can fish without a license, which helps encourage young people to participate in outdoor activities.
License Requirements by Age:
| Age Group | License Required? |
|---|---|
| Under 18 | No |
| 18 and older | Yes |
| 64 and older (residents born after March 31, 1943) | Senior license required |
Indiana residents who are at least 64 years old and were born after March 31, 1943 need to purchase a senior fishing license instead of a regular annual license. If you were born on or before March 31, 1943, you’re exempt from needing any fishing license.
Your Indiana fishing license is required when you fish in public lakes, streams, rivers, tributaries, and boundary waters throughout the state. The requirement applies regardless of whether you catch anything or what type of fishing method you use.
Non-residents visiting Indiana must also obtain a valid fishing license before casting a line. The state offers different licensing options based on how long you plan to fish, from single-day permits to annual licenses.
All licenses issued by the DNR are non-transferable and non-refundable. You cannot share your license with someone else or get your money back if your plans change.
How to Obtain a Fishing License in Indiana
You can purchase an Indiana fishing license through three convenient methods. The easiest option is buying online through the Activity Hub, which charges a $3 tech fee plus a credit card processing fee.
If you prefer in-person purchases, you have several options. Visit authorized license retailers throughout the state, most Indiana Department of Natural Resources properties, or the DNR Customer Service Center in Indianapolis. The Customer Service Center is located at 402 W.
Washington St., Room W160, and operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET on weekdays (closed on state holidays). Cash is not accepted at the Customer Service Center—you must pay with debit, credit, check, or money order.
You can also order by mail if neither online nor in-person works for you. Send your information to the DNR Customer Service Center along with payment. You’ll need to include:
- Your name and date of birth
- Complete address and phone number
- Height, weight, hair color, and eye color
- The last four digits of your Social Security number (mandatory)
- $1 tech fee for each license
Make checks or money orders payable to Indiana DNR. If using a credit card, include the number, CVV, and expiration date. Allow two weeks for delivery.
Remember that all licenses issued by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources are non-transferable and non-refundable. If you have questions, call the Customer Service Center at 317-232-4200.
Fishing License Costs and Validity Periods in Indiana
Indiana residents need to understand both the cost and time limits of their fishing licenses before heading to the water. Annual fishing licenses are valid from April 1 through March 31 of the following year, not based on the calendar year.
Resident License Options:
- Annual Fishing License – $17
- One-Day Fishing License – $9
- Senior Fish-for-Life License – $23 (one-time purchase for lifetime privileges)
Residents who are at least 64 years old and were born after March 31, 1943 need to purchase a senior fishing license. Both the Annual Senior Fishing and the Senior Fish-for-Life include the trout/salmon stamp. If you were born before April 1, 1943, you are exempt from needing a fishing license when fishing in Indiana waters.
Non-Resident License Options:
Non-residents pay higher fees than Indiana residents. Youth who are 17 or younger are exempt from needing a fishing license in Indiana.
Additional Fees to Consider:
When you purchase a license online, expect a $3 tech fee per license plus a credit card processing fee. If you buy at a DNR property or through regular mail, the tech fee drops to $1. These fees are subject to change, and credit card processing fees are non-refundable.
You can reprint your license online for free up to five days after purchase. After that period, duplicate licenses cost $3 each when purchased at a retailer.
