Guides8 min read
US Fishing License Guide 2026: State-by-State
Everything you need to know about fishing licenses in the US for 2026. State-by-state costs, how to buy online, exemptions, federal waters, and who needs one.
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US Fishing Guides, Tips & News
Tips, guides and news for American anglers, from beginner setups and tackle to species, seasons and fishing records.
80 articles
- Guides10 min read
Bass Fishing for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know
Complete bass fishing guide for beginners. Largemouth vs smallmouth, gear under $250, lure selection, techniques like Texas rig and Carolina rig, and tips for your first trip.
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Best Bass Lures: 10 Lures Every Angler Needs
The 10 best bass lures every angler should own. Soft plastics, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, topwater, jigs, and more, with specific product recommendations and how to fish each one.
Read article - Seasons10 min read
US Fishing Season Calendar: When to Fish for What
Complete US fishing season calendar for 2026. Month-by-month guide covering bass, trout, walleye, ice fishing, and saltwater seasons by region. State-specific dates and regulations.
Read article - Gear12 min read
6 Best Fishing Apps of 2026 (We Tested Every One)
The best fishing app of 2026 isn't the biggest one. We tested Fishbrain, GilledIt, FishAngler, Anglr, Navionics & Pro Angler, what's worth installing.
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Ice Fishing for Beginners: Your Complete Guide
Complete ice fishing guide for beginners. Ice safety, essential gear including auger and shelter, target species, techniques, and the best states for ice fishing in America.
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Fly Fishing for Beginners: Getting Started Guide
Complete fly fishing guide for beginners. Gear setup for $200-400, casting basics, fly selection, trout fishing techniques, and top US destinations including Montana, Colorado, and Oregon.
Read article - Species8 min read
US Fishing Records: The Biggest Fish Ever Caught in America
The biggest fish ever caught in the US. IGFA world records, state records, and the stories behind legendary catches including the 22lb 4oz largemouth bass and 1496lb bluefin tuna.
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Best Fishing Vacations in the US for 2026
The best fishing vacations in America for 2026. Florida Keys, Alaska, Montana, Lake Erie, Outer Banks, and more, with options for families, budget trips, and luxury experiences.
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Best Bass Bait 2026: What Catches More Largemouth
The best bass bait depends on water clarity and season. Here's what actually catches more largemouth in 2026, live bait and proven plastics.
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Best Catfish Bait 2026: Channel, Blue & Flathead Picks
The best catfish bait depends on the species. Stinkbait for channels, cut shad for blues, live bait for flatheads, here's the full 2026 breakdown.
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Best Crappie Bait 2026: Live Bait, Jigs & Soft Plastics
Crappie eat minnows, marabou jigs and small soft plastics, but timing changes everything. Here's the 2026 bait breakdown by season and location.
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Alabama Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Alabama fishing licenses start at $14.10 (resident freshwater) in 2026. Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Alaska Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Alaska resident fishing license costs $29 in 2026 ($145 nonresident annual). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Arizona Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Arizona fishing license costs $37 for residents in 2026 ($55 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Arkansas Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Arkansas fishing license costs just $10.50 for residents in 2026. Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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California Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
California fishing license costs $64.54 for residents in 2026 ($174.14 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Colorado Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Colorado fishing license costs $46.91 for residents in 2026, plus $11.45 Habitat Stamp. Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Connecticut Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
Connecticut inland fishing license costs $32 for residents in 2026 ($35 all-waters). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Delaware Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Delaware fishing license costs $8.50 for residents in 2026 and covers all waters. Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Florida Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Florida fishing license costs $17 for residents in 2026 (freshwater or saltwater). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Georgia Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Georgia fishing license costs $15 for residents in 2026 ($10 trout add-on). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Hawaii Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
No license needed for saltwater in Hawaii; freshwater costs $6 for residents in 2026. Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Idaho Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Idaho fishing license costs $30.50 for residents in 2026 ($13.75 senior or junior). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Illinois Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Illinois fishing license costs $15 for residents in 2026 ($31.50 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Indiana Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Indiana fishing license costs $17 for residents in 2026 ($35 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Iowa Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Iowa fishing license costs $22 for residents in 2026 ($48 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Kansas Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Kansas fishing license costs $27.50 for residents in 2026 ($52.50 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Kentucky Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Kentucky fishing license costs $23 for residents in 2026 ($55 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Louisiana Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Louisiana fishing license costs $17 for residents in 2026 ($15 saltwater add-on). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Maine Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Maine fishing license costs $26 for residents in 2026 ($66 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Maryland Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Maryland non-tidal fishing license costs $20.50 for residents in 2026 ($15 Bay & Coastal). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Massachusetts Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
Massachusetts fishing license costs $27.50 for residents in 2026 ($37.50 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Michigan Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Michigan fishing license costs $26 for residents in 2026 ($76 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Minnesota Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Minnesota fishing license costs $25 for residents in 2026 ($51 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Mississippi Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
Mississippi fishing license costs $10 for residents in 2026 ($14 all-water). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Missouri Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Missouri fishing license costs $12 for residents in 2026 ($51 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Montana Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Montana fishing license costs $21 for residents in 2026, plus $8 Conservation License. Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Nebraska Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Nebraska fishing license costs $38 for residents in 2026, plus $15 habitat stamp. Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Nevada Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Nevada fishing license costs $40 for residents in 2026 ($80 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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New Hampshire Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
New Hampshire fishing license costs $45 for residents in 2026 ($63 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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New Jersey Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
New Jersey fishing license costs $22.50 for residents in 2026 ($34 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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New Mexico Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
New Mexico fishing license costs $25 for residents in 2026 ($8 senior, $5 junior). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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New York Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
New York fishing license costs $25 for residents in 2026 ($5 seniors 70+). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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North Carolina Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
North Carolina inland fishing license costs $25 for residents in 2026 ($16 coastal). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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North Dakota Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
North Dakota fishing license costs $18 for residents in 2026 ($32 with required add-ons). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Ohio Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Ohio fishing license costs $25 for residents in 2026 ($14 one-day, $10 senior). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Oklahoma Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Oklahoma fishing license costs $25 for residents in 2026 ($15 one-day). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Oregon Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Oregon fishing license costs $50 for residents in 2026 ($29 one-day). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Pennsylvania Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
Pennsylvania fishing license costs $27.97 for residents in 2026 ($14.47 senior). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Rhode Island Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
Rhode Island freshwater fishing license costs $18 for residents in 2026 ($5.50 trout stamp). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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South Carolina Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
South Carolina fishing license costs $10 for residents in 2026 ($15 saltwater). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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South Dakota Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
South Dakota fishing license costs $28 for residents in 2026 ($67 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Tennessee Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Tennessee fishing license costs $33 for residents (Combo Hunt/Fish) plus a $21 trout supplement, valid 365 days from purchase. Where to buy and key rules. Updated 2026.
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Texas Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Texas freshwater fishing license costs $30 for residents in 2026 ($40 all-water). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Utah Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Utah fishing license costs $40 for residents in 2026 ($90 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Vermont Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Vermont fishing license costs $28 for residents in 2026 ($54 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Virginia Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Virginia freshwater fishing license costs $23 for residents in 2026 ($17.50 saltwater). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Washington Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Washington fishing license costs $32.40 for residents in 2026 ($58.75 combo). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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West Virginia Fishing License 2026: Cost, Buy & Rules
West Virginia fishing license costs $19 for residents in 2026 ($10 trout stamp). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Wisconsin Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Wisconsin fishing license costs $20 for residents in 2026 ($55 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Wyoming Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
Wyoming fishing license costs $27 for residents in 2026 ($102 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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DC Fishing License 2026: Cost, Where to Buy & Rules
DC fishing license costs $10 for residents in 2026 ($13 nonresident). Where to buy, free fishing days & key rules. Updated 2026.
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Lake Okeechobee Fishing 2026: Bass, Reports & Spots
Lake Okeechobee fishing guide for 2026: best largemouth bass spots, crappie tactics, marina access and the Big O's latest reports. Plan your trip now.
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Sam Rayburn Fishing 2026: Bass, Crappie & Reports
Sam Rayburn Reservoir fishing guide: best bass spots, crappie hotspots, marina access and 2026 tournament-tested tactics for Texas's premier lake.
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Lake Fork Fishing 2026: Trophy Bass & ShareLunkers
Lake Fork Texas fishing guide: trophy largemouth tactics, ShareLunker hotspots, marina access and seasonal patterns for the state's premier bass lake.
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Kentucky Lake Fishing 2026: Crappie, Bass & Catfish
Kentucky Lake fishing guide: crappie hotspots, ledge bass tactics, blue catfish and 2026 reports for one of America's top reservoirs. Plan your trip.
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Clear Lake CA Fishing 2026: Bass, Crappie & Catfish
Clear Lake California fishing guide: trophy largemouth, crappie, catfish tactics and access for the West Coast's top bass lake. Plan your 2026 trip.
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Lake Mead Fishing 2026: Stripers, Bass & Tactics
Lake Mead fishing guide: striped bass, smallmouth, largemouth, and catfish tactics, marina access and 2026 water-level reports for Nevada's biggest lake.
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Lake Powell Fishing 2026: Stripers, Smallmouth & Walleye
Lake Powell fishing guide: striper boils, smallmouth, walleye, and largemouth tactics with marina access and 2026 reports for Utah-Arizona's red rock lake.
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Mille Lacs Fishing 2026: Walleye, Smallmouth & Pike
Mille Lacs Minnesota fishing guide: trophy walleye, smallmouth, pike, and muskie tactics, launch access and the 2026 regulations every angler must know.
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Lake Guntersville Fishing 2026: Bass Capital of Alabama
Lake Guntersville fishing guide: trophy largemouth, crappie, marina access and 2026 tournament-tested tactics for Alabama's premier bass lake.
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Lake Norman Fishing 2026: Bass, Stripers & Crappie
Lake Norman North Carolina fishing guide: largemouth, spotted bass, hybrid stripers and crappie tactics with marina access and 2026 reports.
Read article - Guides13 min read
10 Fishing Knots Every Angler Needs to Know in 2026
The 10 fishing knots every angler needs in 2026. Step-by-step instructions for the palomar, uni, snell, FG knot and more, plus which knot to use when.
Read article - Gear9 min read
Fishbrain Alternatives: 6 Apps Worth Switching To (2026)
Fishbrain moved catch locations, forecasts and depth maps behind its $9.99/mo Pro tier. Here are six Fishbrain alternatives that keep the essentials free, with an honest note on each.
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Best Free Fishing App 2026: What Free Actually Means
Most "free" fishing apps only mean free to download. Here is the best free fishing app in 2026, the genuinely free ones, and how to spot the apps that paywall the basics.
Read article - Gear6 min read
Barometer App for Fishing: Log the Pressure, Not Just Read It
Most barometer apps for fishing just show a number. GilledIt logs the barometric pressure and its trend on every catch, so you learn which pressure your fish actually come on.
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Weather App for Fishing: Log the Conditions on Every Catch
A weather app for fishing should do more than forecast. GilledIt logs the wind, temperature and pressure on every catch, so you learn which conditions catch you fish.
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Fishing Log App: Record Every Catch and Its Conditions
A fishing log app should capture more than species and weight. GilledIt logs your catch with photo, GPS, weather and pressure automatically, and the core is free.
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App for Fishing Spots: Find Waters, Map Your Own, Save the GPS
An app for fishing spots should help you find waters and remember your own. GilledIt has a venue directory, an interactive catch map and GPS logging, free to use.
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