You will need a fishing permit if you plan to fish in Indiana. All anglers who want to fish in Indiana must have a fishing license. These licenses are issued by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. This article will walk you through the process to obtain a fishing license, explain the rules you should be aware of before fishing in Indiana and answer any questions you may still have.
Where to get a fishing license in Indiana
You must obtain a fishing permit before you can go fishing in Indiana. Indiana DNR can issue licenses by phone, online or in person. You can purchase your fishing license at a licensed retailer, or on the Indiana DNR’s website. You can also purchase your license over the phone by calling Indiana DNR’s customer service line. On the Indiana DNR’s website, you can find a list licensed retailers.
Types of fishing licenses in Indiana
Indiana offers different fishing licenses for anglers. These include annual, 3-year and 7-day licenses. Residents of Indiana can also get lifetime licenses. The type of fishing license you require will depend on the length of your trip, your age, and your residency status. Here are the different types of fishing licenses that are available in Indiana.
Annual Fishing License
An annual fishing permit is valid for a calendar year starting on the date of purchase. Residents and non-residents can both purchase this type of license.
Fishing License for 3 Years
A 3-year fishing permit may be the best option for you if you plan to fish for more than a year in Indiana. This license is available to Indiana residents and is valid for 3 consecutive calendar years.
7-Day Fishing Licence
A 7-day fishing permit may be the best option if you plan to fish in Indiana only for a short period of time. This license is available to residents and non-residents in Indiana. It is valid for 7 consecutive days.
Lifetime Fishing License
Indiana residents are eligible to apply for a lifetime fishing license. Non-residents cannot apply for these licenses. The licenses are purchased once and allow the holder to continue fishing in Indiana throughout their life.
Indiana Fishing Regulations
Regulations are in place in Indiana to protect wildlife and to ensure sustainable fishing. You should familiarize yourself before you go fishing with the following regulations.
Fishing Hours and Seasons
Indiana has different fishing seasons and hours depending on the fish species. For example, the trout season runs from April 27 until October 31 and the hours of fishing are from dawn till dusk. You can find the specific regulations on the Indiana DNR’s website for the species that you want to catch.
Bag Limits
Indiana has bag limits on certain fish species. These limits define the number of fish that an angler may catch and keep of a specific species in a day. You can find the specific regulations on the Indiana DNR’s website for the species that you want to catch.
Size Limits
Indiana also has size restrictions for certain fish species. These limits specify a fish’s minimum or maximum size that an angler may catch and keep. You can find the specific regulations on the Indiana DNR’s website for the species that you want to catch.
Catch and Release
Indiana encourages catch and release. Anglers are encouraged to use barbless hooks, and to handle fish gently in order reduce the risk of injury. If you have to remove a hooked fish, do it quickly and with caution.
Frequently Asked Question
Who needs a fishing license in Indiana?
All anglers 18 years and older who wish to fish in Indiana public waters must have a fishing permit. There are some exceptions, including Indiana residents who are younger than 18 and older than 64.
What is the cost of a fishing license in Indiana?
The cost of a Indiana fishing license varies depending on factors like residency status and license duration. A fishing license costs $20 for Indiana residents, and $35 for non-residents. A 3-year Indiana resident license costs $55, while a 7-day Indiana resident license costs $20 and a non-resident license costs $20. The cost of a lifetime license for Indiana residents varies from $500 to $1900 depending on their age.
Can I buy a fishing license for someone else?
You can purchase a fishing licence as a gift. When purchasing the license, you will need to give the person’s full name, address and date of birth.
Do I need a fishing license to fish on private property?
You do not need a license if you are fishing with the owner of the property and the waters are not connected to the public waters or regulated in Indiana. If the private waters are linked to public waters, then you will need a license.
Conclusion
You will need a fishing permit if you plan to fish in Indiana. Indiana offers different types of fishing licenses. The type you need depends on your age, your residency status, and how long your fishing trip will last. You should also familiarize yourselves with Indiana’s regulations on fishing, including the seasons, hours, bag limits and size limits. This article should have answered all your questions about fishing licenses and Indiana.