Are you a fishing enthusiast? If you plan to cast your line into Missouri waters, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations. A fishing license is essential to allow you to fish in the waters of Missouri. This article will give you a complete guide to Missouri fishing licenses, including what they are, how to obtain them, and the fees.
What is a fishing license?
Let’s first define what a license for fishing is. A fishing license is an official permit that allows anglers the legal right to fish in state or country waters. This document is required to be carried at all times by the angler while fishing. Fishing regulations differ from state to state and country to country. It’s important that you follow the law before you start fishing.
How to get a fishing license in Missouri
Let’s discuss the process to obtain a Missouri fishing license now that you know what it is. You can get a fishing permit online, in person, or via mail. The Missouri Department of Conservation offers an easy-to-use system for obtaining your fishing license online.
You can purchase a license by visiting the MDC website. Just follow the prompts. You will be asked to enter personal information such as your date of birth, name, and address. After you’ve completed the required fields, a prompt will appear asking you to choose which type of fishing licence you want to buy.
Types of fishing licenses
Missouri offers several types of fishing permits, including:
- Annual Fishing License – This license is valid for a period of 12 months after the date of purchase, and allows you to fish on Missouri’s waters.
- Daily Fishing Licence: If you are not a frequent fisher, you can purchase a license that allows you to fish one day.
- Trout Permit. If you plan to fish in designated trout water, you will need to purchase both a fishing license and a trout permit.
- Lifetime Licenses. If you are a serious fisherman, a lifetime license is the best option. This type of license is good for the lifetime of the angler and eliminates the requirement to renew the license annually.
Fishing license fees
The cost of a Missouri fishing license varies depending on what type of license you are purchasing. Here are the fees for 2021.
- Annual Fishing Licence: $12 for residents and $42 for nonresidents
- Daily Fishing Licence: $7 for residents and $8 for non-residents
- Trout Permits: $7 for residents and $14 for non-residents
- Lifetime Licenses: $400 per resident, $1,000 for non residents
The fees listed above may change. It is best to check MDC’s website for the latest fees.
Fishing Regulations Missouri
To avoid legal consequences, it is important to understand the Missouri fishing regulations. Here are the most important rules you should know:
- Catch and Release: It’s important to immediately release a fish if it is not within the legal weight or size limit.
- Bag Limit: The bag limits refer to the maximum number of fish that an angler may harvest in a single day or trip. It varies by species, so you should know the bag limit for the fish that you are targeting.
- Size Limit: The size limits refer to the maximum and minimum sizes allowed for each species. This is to prevent the fish population from being depleted.
- Fishing Season: Certain species of fish can only be legally caught during a certain season. It is important to know when the fishing season is for the species that you wish to catch.
Fishing Etiquette
It’s important not only to follow the fishing regulations but also to have good fishing etiquette. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Respect other anglers. If you are fishing in a crowded place, it is important to allow other anglers to cast their line.
- Leave no trace. When fishing, be sure to clean up your mess and leave the area better than when you arrived.
- Release fish you don’t want: If you catch too many fish to eat, it’s better to release them.
- Keep wildlife in mind: Be careful not to harm wildlife, such as birds or other animals.
Conclusion
Fishing can be a rewarding and fun hobby for people of any age. It’s important that you follow the rules to ensure that your fishing is legal and responsible. Online, you can easily obtain a Missouri fishing license. Remember to follow the fishing regulations and practice good fishing etiquette. Enjoy your time on the waters.