Fishing is a popular recreational activity in Virginia, with abundant freshwater and saltwater opportunities across the state. Anglers age 16 and older are required to have a current Virginia fishing license before casting a line in public waterways, with few exceptions. Thankfully, buying a license is now easier than ever through the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources’ (DWR) website and mobile app, Go Outdoors Virginia.
The platform allows you to purchase annual or short-term fishing licenses entirely online and checkout securely using PayPal. This article covers everything you need to know, from license types and exemptions to costs and the step-by-step process for buying your license with PayPal.
Overview of Virginia Fishing Licenses
Virginia offers both freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses valid for different durations. Key things to note:
- All anglers age 16 and older require a license to fish in public waters in Virginia. This includes both residents and non-residents.
- Separate licenses cover freshwater and saltwater fishing. A saltwater license allows fishing in tidal waters and tributaries up to the fall line.
- Short-term 1-day, 5-day, and 10-day licenses are available for non-residents.
- Lifetime licenses are available for avid resident and non-resident anglers.
Exemptions exist for:
- Children under 16
- Residents over 65 (saltwater license still required)
- Fishing on own private property
- Holders of certain other permits
See the DWR website for full exemptions.
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Buying Your License Online
The DWR recommends purchasing licenses online through the Go Outdoors Virginia website or mobile app. It allows 24/7 access and instant proof of licensing through electronic copies.
Follow these steps for easy online purchase:
- Visit GoOutdoorsVirginia.com or download app
- Create an account or log-in to existing account
- Select license type based on residency and fishing location
- Checkout with PayPal for quick, secure payment
- Print/save license to phone
PayPal Payment
PayPal is accepted when buying licenses through Go Outdoors Virginia. At checkout, you can conveniently pay using your PayPal account or debit/credit card without creating an account.
License Types & Fees
License costs vary based on residency, duration, and fishing location. They can only be used by the person named on the license.
Virginia Residents
| License | Fee | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Freshwater | $23 | 1 Year |
| Freshwater | $44 | 2 Years |
| Freshwater | $65 | 3 Years |
| Freshwater | $125 | 5 Years |
Non-Residents
| License | Fee | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Freshwater | $31 | 1 Year |
| Freshwater | $21 | 5 Days |
| Freshwater | $6 | 1 Day |
Separate saltwater licenses are also available. See the DWR license fees page for a full breakdown.
Buying In-Person
Besides online purchases, licenses can also be bought in-person from hundreds of license agents, clerks, and some DWR offices across Virginia. Visit the license agent locator to find a seller near you.
In-person purchases generally only accept cash or check payments. PayPal is only available when buying online through Go Outdoors Virginia.
Key Reminders
Remember these crucial points when fishing in Virginia:
- Carry license while fishing: Digital or paper copy.
- Saltwater has separate license: Covers below the fall line.
- Get required stamps: For National Forest and special trout waters.
- Know your exemptions: Resident 65+ don’t need a saltwater license.
So don’t let licensing be a barrier to casting your line in Virginia’s abundant waters. Follow the guidance above to get a license with PayPal in just minutes from home. Then you can focus on the fishing!