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Do You Need a Fishing License in DC?
Yes. Anyone age 16 or older needs a fishing license to fish DC waters. The DC Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), Fisheries and Wildlife Division, issues all licenses for the District.
Anglers under 16 fish free in DC. Seniors 65 and older qualify for free fishing licenses with proof of age and DC residency. Active-duty military stationed in DC fish at resident rates.
A DC fishing license covers the DC portion of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers. Maryland and Virginia have reciprocal agreements covering certain boundary waters, so check before crossing state lines.
How Much Does a DC Fishing License Cost in 2026?
DC resident annual fishing license costs $10. DC senior (65+) license is free with proof of residency.
Nonresident annual fishing license costs $13. Nonresident 14-day tourist license is $6.50. There is no separate trout stamp, but DC stocks trout seasonally in select waters.
DC has some of the lowest license fees in the country. Licenses run on a calendar year and expire December 31 regardless of purchase date.
Where to Buy a DC Fishing License
Buy online through the DOEE licensing portal at doee.dc.gov. Digital licenses are accepted by DC fisheries enforcement officers.
In-person sales happen at the DOEE office at 1200 First Street NE, plus authorized retailers including Fletcher's Cove Boathouse, Hains Point bait shops, and select sporting goods stores in the DC metro area.
Phone orders are available through DOEE at 202-535-2260. Bring valid ID and proof of DC residency for resident rates.
DC Free Fishing Days 2026
DC participates in National Fishing and Boating Week with free fishing days in early June. In 2026, DC free fishing days are Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7. No license is required for residents or nonresidents during these days.
DOEE hosts free family fishing events at Kingman Lake and along the Anacostia River during this week. Loaner gear and free bait are provided.
All bag limits, size limits, and water-specific rules remain in effect during free fishing days.
DC Fishing Regulations You Should Know
DC daily creel limits include 5 largemouth bass (12-inch minimum), 5 channel catfish, and 25 panfish in aggregate. Striped bass on the Potomac is regulated under Potomac River Fisheries Commission rules, with specific size and season restrictions.
The Potomac and Anacostia rivers have consumption advisories due to historic contamination. DOEE publishes a Fish Consumption Advisory guide listing safe species and serving frequencies, especially for children and pregnant women.
Snakehead fish are present in DC waters. Anglers are encouraged to harvest and not release them. DOEE has a snakehead reporting and reward program.
Best Fishing Spots in DC
Fletcher's Cove on the Potomac is the most famous urban fishery in the country, producing trophy striped bass, white perch, herring, and shad in spring runs. The cove sits below Chain Bridge in northwest DC.
The Tidal Basin and Constitution Gardens hold largemouth bass, channel catfish, and panfish. The National Mall offers fishing access in iconic settings.
The Anacostia River has rebounded after decades of restoration and now produces good largemouth bass, catfish, and snakehead. Kingman Lake and Heritage Island offer kayak and bank access.
Frequently Asked Questions
A DC resident annual fishing license costs $10. Nonresidents pay $13 annually or $6.50 for a 14-day tourist license. Senior residents 65+ fish free with proof of residency.
No. Anglers under age 16 fish free in Washington DC year-round. They must still follow all DOEE bag limits, size limits, and consumption advisories.
Free Fishing Days are Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7, 2026, during National Fishing and Boating Week. No license is required to fish DC waters those two days.
Yes, on the DC side of the Potomac. The Potomac River Fisheries Commission and reciprocal agreements with Maryland and Virginia cover most of the river, so a DC license generally covers Potomac waters.
Buy online through the DOEE licensing portal at doee.dc.gov. Digital licenses on your phone are accepted by DC fisheries enforcement officers.
Yes. DOEE publishes a Fish Consumption Advisory for the Potomac and Anacostia rivers. Some species are safe in limited servings; others should not be eaten, especially by children and pregnant women.