What You Need to Fish in Nevada as a Nonresident

If you live outside Nevada and want to fish in the state's waters, you need a nonresident fishing license. Nevada issues these licenses through the Department of Wildlife, and you can buy one before you arrive or once you're in the state. The license covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing and is valid for the calendar year in which you purchase it — so a license bought in November expires December 31 of that same year.

You do not need a separate license for each type of fish or each body of water. One nonresident license covers all public fishing in Nevada, though some species and locations have additional tag or permit requirements that are separate from the base license.

Key Takeaways

  • Nonresident licenses are sold by the Nevada Department of Wildlife online, by phone, and at authorized vendors throughout the state.
  • A one-year nonresident license costs a set amount and covers all freshwater and saltwater fishing for the calendar year.
  • You must carry your physical license or a printed confirmation while fishing, and show it to a wildlife officer if asked.
  • Some fish species and waters require additional tags or permits beyond the base nonresident license.
  • Nonresidents under 16 and over 70 may have different licensing requirements; check current rules before you fish.

Where and How to Buy a Nonresident License

The Nevada Department of Wildlife sells nonresident licenses through three main channels. You can purchase online at the department's website before your trip, which is the fastest option and gives you an instant confirmation you can print or save to your phone. You can also call the department directly during business hours to buy over the phone, or visit any authorized vendor in Nevada — these include sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some marinas and resorts.

Online purchases let you start fishing immediately after you complete the transaction. If you buy in person at a vendor, the process is the same day. Phone purchases also complete on the call. Bring or provide your driver's license or state ID number when you buy, along with your date of birth.

License Cost and What It Covers

The cost of a one-year nonresident license varies and is set by Nevada's wildlife agency. The license covers fishing in all public waters across the state — lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and streams — for the full calendar year. This means a license purchased in January and one purchased in December both expire on December 31 of that year, so timing your purchase matters if you fish late in the year.

The license does not cover private property or private ponds without the owner's written permission. It also does not include special tags or permits for species like trout, walleye, or bass in certain waters, which may be required in addition to your base license depending on where and what you plan to fish.

Species Tags and Additional Permits

Some fish in Nevada require a separate tag or permit beyond your nonresident license. Trout fishing in certain lakes and streams, for example, may require a trout tag. Bass and walleye in specific waters may also have tag requirements. These tags are purchased separately from your license and are usually available from the same vendors and online sources where you buy your license.

Check the Nevada Department of Wildlife's current fishing regulations before your trip to see which species and waters you plan to fish. The regulations guide lists every tag requirement by location and species. If you are unsure whether a tag applies to your planned fishing, call the department or ask the vendor when you buy your license.

What to Carry While Fishing

You must have your nonresident license with you at all times while you are fishing. This can be your physical license card, a printed confirmation from an online purchase, or a digital copy on your phone — Nevada accepts all three forms. A wildlife officer can ask to see your license at any time, and you are required to show it.

If you cannot produce your license when asked, you may be cited for fishing without one, even if you purchased it. Keep your confirmation email or receipt easily accessible, especially if you bought online. If you lose your physical card, contact the Nevada Department of Wildlife to request a replacement or print a new confirmation from your online account.

Age Exceptions and Special Rules

Nevada has different licensing rules for certain age groups. Residents under 16 and over 70 have their own license categories with different costs. Nonresidents under 16 may also have a reduced rate or different requirements — check with the Nevada Department of Wildlife for current rules, as these can change year to year.

If you are bringing children to fish in Nevada, confirm their age-based licensing status before your trip. Some youth may be exempt from licensing altogether under certain conditions, though this varies by state residency and age.

Fishing Seasons and Regulations

Nevada has year-round fishing in many waters, but some lakes, streams, and species have specific open and closed seasons. Trout season, for example, typically opens in early spring and runs through fall, but dates vary by water body. Bass and other warm-water species have their own seasons that differ from trout.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife publishes a detailed fishing guide each year that lists every water body, its season dates, species present, and any special rules or closures. Download this guide before you fish or pick one up at a vendor. Fishing outside the open season for a species or water is a violation, even with a valid license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a nonresident license for just a few days?

Nevada does not sell daily or short-term nonresident licenses. You must purchase a full one-year license, which runs from January 1 to December 31 of the year you buy it. If you fish late in the year, the license is still valid only through December 31, so plan accordingly.

Do I need a license if I fish on private property?

No, you do not need a state license to fish on private property if you have the owner's written permission. However, you still must follow Nevada's fishing regulations — seasons, size limits, and catch limits apply even on private land.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Nevada law. A wildlife officer can cite you and impose fines. Always carry your license or a printed confirmation while fishing, and show it if an officer asks.

Can I use my nonresident license in other states?

No, your Nevada nonresident license is valid only in Nevada. Each state issues its own licenses. If you plan to fish in other states, you will need to purchase a separate nonresident license for each state.

Where do I find the current fishing regulations?

The Nevada Department of Wildlife publishes an annual fishing guide with all current seasons, size limits, and catch limits by water body. You can download it from the department's website or pick up a printed copy at any authorized vendor or wildlife office.