You will need to apply for a fishing permit or boat registration if you plan to fish or boat in Mississippi. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is responsible for the regulation of fishing and boating in the state. This guide will provide all the information you need about the Mississippi fishing license as well as the state’s boating regulations.
Types of Mississippi Fishing Licenses
A valid fishing permit or license is required before you can legally fish in Mississippi. These are the types of fishing licenses that Mississippi offers:
Resident Fishing Licence
Only Mississippi residents can apply for a Resident Fishing Licence. The license is valid for a year from the date of purchase. It can be purchased at any vendor that sells Mississippi fishing and hunting licenses. A Resident Fishing License costs $17.00
Non-Resident Fishing Licence
A Non-Resident Fishing License can be purchased for individuals who don’t reside in Mississippi. This license is valid for a year from the date of purchase. It can be purchased at any vendor that sells Mississippi fishing and hunting licenses. Non-Resident Fishing Licenses are available at $47.00
Youth Fishing License
A youth fishing license is for those under 16 years of age. The license is valid for one-year from the date of purchase. It can be purchased at any Mississippi fishing and hunting license seller. A youth fishing license costs $5.00
Lifetime Fishing License
For individuals who wish to fish in Mississippi their entire lives, a Lifetime Fishing License can be obtained. This license is only available through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. The price of a Lifetime Fishing License is dependent on the age of the buyer.
Mississippi Boat Registration Requirements
Before a boat can be used on Mississippi’s waterways, it must be registered with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. These are the types of boats that must register in Mississippi:
Motorboats
The MDWFP must register any boat propelled by a motor. Motorboat registration fees are based on the boat’s length. The current fee schedule can be found here:
– Boats less 16 feet in length: $5.00
$15.00 – Boats from 16 to 26 feet in length
Boats 26 feet and longer: $25.00
Sailboats
The MDWFP must register sailboats that are only used for recreational purposes and not docked in a harbor or marina. A $5.00 registration fee is required for a sailboat.
Houseboats
The MDWFP must register any boat that is used as a dwelling, residence, or equipped with sleeping quarters and cooking facilities. The length of the boat determines the registration fee. The current fee schedule can be found here:
Boats less than 31ft in length: $25.00
Boats 31 feet and longer: $50.00
Mississippi Fishing Seasons & Limits
Mississippi is home to many fish species that can all be caught throughout the year. To ensure the sustainability and viability of the state’s fishing resources, however, there are certain seasons and limits that each species must be caught.
The Mississippi fishing season runs from April through September. Most species of fish can be caught during this period. Certain species may have specific seasons that must be observed.
Each species has its own fishing limit in Mississippi. For example, the daily limit for crappie fishing is 15 g per day while that for catfish is 10 g per day. For the most current information on fishing seasons and limits, anglers should visit the MDWFP’s website.
Mississippi Boating Regulations
The state has established a variety of boating regulations to ensure safety for all who use Mississippi’s waterways. These are some of the most important regulations you should be aware of:
Life Jackets
Each person on board a boat must have at the very least one U.S. Coast Guard-approved, properly fitting life jacket. Children under 12 years old must always wear a lifejacket while aboard any vessel less than 26 feet long.
Navigation lights
Proper navigation lights are required for all boats operating between sunsets and sunrises, or during periods of reduced visibility.
Boating while intoxicated (BWI).
Mississippi makes it illegal to operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Anyone found boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol can face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
Conclusion
The Mississippi fishing license and boat registration requirements for Mississippi are simple and easy to understand. Anglers and boaters will have a great time on the water if they follow the state’s regulations. This will allow them to enjoy the outdoors while protecting the state’s natural resources. Remember to get your fishing license and boat registration. Also, remember to observe fishing seasons and limits. Always practice safe and responsible boating.
