What You Need to Fish Saltwater as a Nonresident in Mississippi

A nonresident saltwater fishing license from Mississippi allows you to fish in the state's coastal waters and bays without being a state resident. The license is issued by the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) and is required for anyone 16 and older who wants to fish for saltwater species in state waters. You can purchase it online, by phone, or in person at authorized vendors.

The license covers saltwater fishing only — it does not include freshwater species like bass or catfish. If you plan to fish both saltwater and freshwater during your trip, you will need separate licenses. Nonresident licenses are available for different time periods, from a single day to a full year, so you can choose the option that fits your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Nonresident saltwater licenses are sold for one day, three days, seven days, or one year, with prices varying by duration.
  • You must be 16 or older to fish without a license; children under 16 may fish free if supervised by a licensed adult.
  • Purchase your license online through the MDMR website, by phone at 1-800-GO-FISH-1, or at tackle shops and sporting goods stores along the coast.
  • The license covers saltwater species only and does not permit freshwater fishing without a separate freshwater license.
  • You must carry your license with you while fishing and show it to any MDMR officer or game warden upon request.

License Types and Pricing for Nonresidents

Mississippi offers four nonresident saltwater license options. A one-day license is the shortest option and costs less than a multi-day pass — this works well if you are visiting for a single fishing trip. A three-day license covers consecutive days and is useful for a weekend getaway. A seven-day license gives you a full week and is often chosen by visitors planning a longer vacation.

A one-year nonresident license is available if you fish in Mississippi waters multiple times throughout the year. Prices for all license types are set by the MDMR and change periodically, so check the official website or call 1-800-GO-FISH-1 for current rates before you purchase. The cost difference between a one-day and a seven-day license is usually modest enough that a seven-day license makes sense if you plan more than one outing.

How to Purchase Your License Online or by Phone

The fastest way to get a nonresident saltwater license is through the MDMR website at dmr.ms.gov. You will need a valid form of identification and a payment method — credit card or debit card. The online system generates your license immediately after purchase, and you can print it or save it to your phone. Many anglers take a photo of the license on their phone so they have it available without printing.

If you prefer to buy by phone, call 1-800-GO-FISH-1 during business hours. A representative will walk you through the purchase and email or mail your license. You can also buy in person at authorized vendors, which include tackle shops, sporting goods stores, and some bait and tackle retailers throughout coastal Mississippi counties. Bring your ID and payment method with you.

Where to Buy from Local Vendors

Licensed vendors are scattered along Mississippi's Gulf Coast and in towns near popular fishing areas. Major sporting goods chains like Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's sell Mississippi licenses at their locations. Local tackle shops in Biloxi, Gulfport, Pass Christian, and other coastal towns stock licenses and can answer questions about current fishing conditions in nearby waters.

If you are renting a boat or booking a guided charter, ask the outfitter or captain where they recommend buying your license — they often have vendor information or can direct you to the nearest shop. Many charter services can also point you toward vendors that are open early in the morning, which is helpful if you want to purchase your license the day you fish.

License Requirements and Exemptions

Anyone 16 years old or older must have a valid saltwater license to fish in Mississippi's coastal waters. Children under 16 may fish without a license if they are directly supervised by a licensed adult — the adult must be present and actively fishing or watching the child. The adult's license does not cover the child; it simply exempts the child from needing their own.

Residents of other states who are visiting Mississippi are required to purchase a nonresident license. Active-duty military personnel stationed in Mississippi may be may be able to access for a resident rate or exemption — contact the MDMR directly to confirm your status. Commercial fishing operations and charter captains have separate licensing requirements and are not covered by recreational saltwater licenses.

What Species You Can Fish For

Your nonresident saltwater license covers saltwater fish species found in Mississippi's bays, sounds, and Gulf waters. These include redfish, spotted seatrout, flounder, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, grouper, snapper, and many others. The license does not restrict which species you can target — you can fish for any saltwater species that is in season and legal to keep.

However, size and bag limits apply to most species, and some species are closed to harvest during certain months. These regulations are separate from the license itself and change by species and season. Before you fish, check the current MDMR regulations for the specific species you want to catch — the MDMR website lists all size limits, bag limits, and seasonal closures. Violating these rules can result in fines even if you have a valid license.

Carrying and Displaying Your License

You must have your license with you at all times while you are fishing. A printed copy, a digital copy on your phone, or the original document issued by the MDMR all count as valid proof. If an MDMR officer, game warden, or law enforcement official asks to see your license, you must show it immediately. Fishing without a license or failing to produce one when asked is a violation and can result in a citation and fine.

If you lose your license or it becomes damaged, contact the MDMR to request a replacement. You may be able to reprint a digital copy if you purchased online, or you can buy a new license. Keep a photo of your license on your phone as a backup — this is not an official replacement, but it can help you remember your license number or purchase date if you need to contact the MDMR.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate license if I want to fish freshwater and saltwater?

Yes. Your nonresident saltwater license covers only saltwater species. If you want to fish for freshwater species like bass or catfish, you must purchase a separate nonresident freshwater license from the MDMR. Some states offer combination licenses, but Mississippi sells them separately.

Can I fish from a charter boat without a license?

No. Even if you are fishing from a charter boat, you must have a valid nonresident saltwater license. The charter captain and crew have their own commercial licenses, but passengers are required to have individual recreational licenses. Ask your charter operator where to purchase your license before your trip.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Mississippi law and can result in a citation, fine, and confiscation of your catch and equipment. The penalty amount varies depending on the circumstances and whether it is a first or repeat offense. It is much cheaper and easier to purchase a license before you fish.

Can I buy a license for someone else?

You can purchase a license online or by phone using another person's information, but the license must be issued in their name. The person fishing must carry their own license. If you are buying for a family member or friend, you will need their identification information and they will need to provide it when you call or purchase online.

Is there a discount for military or seniors?

Mississippi offers some discounts for active-duty military and may have reduced rates for certain groups, but these vary. Contact the MDMR at 1-800-GO-FISH-1 or check their website to confirm current discounts and whether you are may be able to access. Bring proof of your status when you purchase if you think you may may have access to.