Fishing is a popular outdoor activity in Illinois, attracting thousands of anglers every year. To legally fish in the state, you need to obtain an Illinois fishing license. In this article, we’ll cover all the essential information you need to know about the Illinois fishing license.
Types of Illinois Fishing Licenses
Illinois offers several types of fishing licenses, including:
- Resident sport fishing license
- Non-resident sport fishing license
- Senior resident sport fishing license
- Disability sport fishing license
- One-day sport fishing license
- Three-year sport fishing license
The fees for each type of license vary depending on the age and residency status of the applicant. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) issues fishing licenses through their website, local vendors, and IDNR offices.
Resident Sport Fishing License
The Resident Sport Fishing License is available to Illinois residents who have lived in the state for at least 30 days. The license is valid for one year from the date of purchase. The fee for a resident sport fishing license is $15.
Non-Resident Sport Fishing License
Non-residents can also obtain a sport fishing license to fish in Illinois. The non-resident sport fishing license is valid for one year from the date of purchase and costs $31.50.
Senior Resident Sport Fishing License
The Senior Resident Sport Fishing License is available to Illinois residents aged 65 and older. The license is valid for one year from the date of purchase and costs $7.75.
Disability Sport Fishing License
Illinois residents with disabilities are eligible to apply for a disability sport fishing license. The license is valid for one year from the date of purchase and costs $1.
One-Day Sport Fishing License
Anglers who are not regular fishers can obtain a one-day sport fishing license. The one-day license allows the angler to fish on the day of purchase only and costs $5.50.
Three-Year Sport Fishing License
The Three-Year Sport Fishing License is available to Illinois residents only and is valid for three years from the date of purchase. The license costs $45.
Where to Buy an Illinois Fishing License
Illinois fishing licenses can be purchased in three ways:
- Online through the IDNR website
- At a local vendor such as a sporting goods store or fishing outfitter
- At an IDNR office
When purchasing a fishing license online, the angler will receive an electronic copy of the license that can be printed or stored on their smartphone. If purchasing a license in person, the angler will receive a paper copy of their license.
Regulations and Restrictions
Illinois has specific regulations and restrictions for fishing, such as bag limits and size limits on certain fish species. Anglers should familiarize themselves with these regulations before heading out onto the water. Violating regulations can result in fines and other penalties.
Conclusion
Obtaining an Illinois fishing license is a simple process that can be done online or in person. The type of license an angler needs will depend on their residency status, age, and other factors. Understanding the regulations and restrictions for fishing in Illinois is essential for a successful and legal fishing trip. So, if you’re planning a fishing trip in Illinois, make sure to obtain the right license and follow all the regulations. Happy fishing!
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