How to Get a Fishing License in Virginia

Fishing is a great pastime, but it is governed through a licensing process that differs in each state. Virginia has a variety of locations at which you can get any type of fishing license. The steps below can guide you through this simple process.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Know what type of fish you want to catch. The State of Virginia has a basic fishing license and a separate trout license.

2. Know where you are going to fish. There are separate fishing licenses for fresh and salt water. An additional license stamp is required to fish in Virginia's national forests.

3. Figure out who will be fishing with you. In Virginia, anyone age 16 or older must have a license to fish.

4. Gather your basic identification information. Some license sites require photo identification or your fishing license from the previous year.

5. Pick your location. Large retail stores like Wal-Mart and K-Mart issue fishing licenses in Virginia. Some convenience markets also offer this service. Licenses can be purchased online as well from the state Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. There is no turn-around time, licenses are issued on site.

6. Decide if this is to be a long-term pastime. Life-time fishing licenses are available in Virginia, but they must be purchased through the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries in Richmond.

Tips & Warnings

• A trout license is required if you plan to fish in trout-stocked areas, even if you do not plan to catch the trout.
• People who are blind can receive a free lifetime fishing license through the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries in Richmond.

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Resources

• Website for the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries