Mississippi Fishing License Regulations Overview

Who Needs a Fishing License?

In Mississippi, anglers aged 16 to 64 must possess a valid fishing license to fish in public waters, including lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and streams. This requirement applies to both residents and non-residents of the state.

Exemptions

However, there are a few exemptions to this rule:

  • Residents aged 65 and older: Mississippi residents aged 65 and above are exempt from purchasing a fishing license but must carry proof of age and residency while fishing.
    • Disabled veterans: Resident veterans with a 100% service-connected disability are exempt from purchasing a fishing license but must carry proof of disability status while fishing.
    • Fishing on private property: If you’re fishing in a privately owned pond or stream, you do not need a fishing license.

Types of Mississippi Fishing Licenses and Fees

Mississippi offers a variety of fishing licenses to accommodate the diverse needs of anglers:

Resident Fishing Licenses

  • Annual Freshwater Fishing License: Allows fishing in all public freshwater areas for residents. The fee is $10.
  • Annual Saltwater Fishing License: Required for fishing in the marine waters south of U.S. Highway 90 for residents. The fee is $10.
  • Lifetime Sportsman’s License: Includes hunting, freshwater fishing, and saltwater fishing privileges for residents. Prices vary based on age, starting at $500 for ages 13 and under, $600 for ages 14-29, $500 for ages 30-39, $400 for ages 40-49, $300 for ages 50-59, and $200 for ages 60-64.

Non-Resident Fishing Licenses

  • Annual Freshwater Fishing License: Allows fishing in all public freshwater areas for non-residents. The fee is $60.
  • Annual Saltwater Fishing License: Required for fishing in the marine waters south of U.S. Highway 90 for non-residents. The fee is $30.
  • 3-Day Freshwater Fishing License: Valid for 72 hours of freshwater fishing for non-residents. The fee is $15.
  • 3-Day Saltwater Fishing License: Valid for 72 hours of saltwater fishing for non-residents. The fee is $15.
  • Non-Resident Mississippi Native Lifetime License: Available for non-residents born in Mississippi or with parents who were Mississippi residents at the time of birth. The fee is $1,500.

Where to Purchase a Mississippi Fishing License

Obtaining your Mississippi fishing license is a simple and convenient process. You have several options:

Online Purchase

Visit the official MDWFP licensing website to purchase your license online using a credit card. You can print your license immediately or save it on your mobile device.

In-Person Purchase

Visit any MDWFP regional office or authorized license vendor, such as sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, or hardware stores, to purchase your license in person.

Telephone Purchase

Call the MDWFP at 1-800-5GO-HUNT (1-800-546-4868) to purchase your license over the phone using a credit card.

Remember to carry your fishing license with you at all times while fishing, either in printed form or as a digital copy on your mobile device.

Additional Licenses and Regulations to Consider

Wildlife Management Area User Permit

If you plan to fish in any of Mississippi’s Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), you’ll need to obtain a WMA User Permit in addition to your fishing license. This permit grants access to these specially managed areas and supports their upkeep and conservation efforts.

Fishing Regulations

To ensure the sustainability of fish populations and promote responsible fishing practices, Mississippi has established various fishing regulations, including:

  • Daily Catch Limits: Be aware of the daily catch limits for each fish species and adhere to them strictly.
    • Size Limits: Certain fish species have minimum and/or maximum size limits. Measure your catch carefully and release any fish that do not meet the size requirements.
    • Seasons: Some fish species may have specific seasons during which they can be legally caught. Stay informed about the current fishing seasons for your target species.

For the most up-to-date fishing regulations, consult the Mississippi Fishing Regulations Guide.

Boating Requirements

If you plan to fish from a boat, make sure to comply with Mississippi’s boating regulations, which include:

  • Registering your boat with the MDWFP
    • Carrying required safety equipment, such as life jackets and fire extinguishers
    • Following navigation rules and speed limits
    • Completing a boating safety course if born after June 30, 1980