What a Utah Resident Fishing License Is and Who Needs One
A Utah resident fishing license is a permit issued by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources that allows you to fish in Utah's public waters. If you are a Utah resident and want to fish anywhere in the state — whether in rivers, streams, lakes, or reservoirs — you need a current license. The only exceptions are children under 12 (who can fish without a license if supervised by a licensed adult) and certain disabled individuals who may have access to for a free permit.
The license itself does not grant you access to private land; it only covers public waters and waters open to public fishing. You still need permission from landowners to cross private property to reach those waters. The license is valid for one calendar year, running from January 1 through December 31.
Key Takeaways
- Utah resident fishing licenses cost $35 for an annual permit and are valid January 1 through December 31 of the same year.
- You can purchase a license online through the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website, by phone, or at authorized vendors across the state.
- Children under 12 do not need a license if they fish under the direct supervision of a licensed adult.
- You must carry your license with you while fishing and show it to a wildlife officer if asked.
- Utah offers a three-day tourist license for non-residents and a separate license for certain disabled anglers at no cost.
How Much a Resident License Costs and What It Covers
An annual resident fishing license costs $35. This single license covers all species of fish in all public waters throughout Utah for the full calendar year. You do not need separate licenses for different waters or different fish species.
The $35 license does not include special permits for certain activities. If you want to fish for walleye in specific waters, or if you plan to use certain methods like netting or trapping, you may need an additional permit. Check the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website or contact a regional office to confirm what your intended fishing method requires.
Where and How to Buy Your License
You can purchase a resident fishing license through three main channels: online, by phone, or in person at an authorized vendor.
Online purchase is the fastest option. Visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website (wildlife.utah.gov), navigate to the licensing section, and complete the purchase. You will receive your license immediately by email as a PDF that you can print or display on your phone. No waiting period applies.
By phone, call the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources at their main office. They can process your license over the phone and email it to you the same day.
In-person vendors include sporting goods stores, outdoor retailers, and some convenience stores throughout Utah. A list of authorized vendors is available on the wildlife.utah.gov website. Vendors can issue your license on the spot, though some may charge a small processing fee in addition to the $35 license cost.
What Information You Need to Provide
When you purchase a license, you will need to provide your full name, date of birth, Utah address, and phone number. If you are purchasing online, you will also need a valid payment method (credit card or debit card).
You do not need to prove residency at the time of purchase, but the Division of Wildlife Resources defines a resident as someone who has lived in Utah for at least six months. If you are new to the state, you may be asked to verify your residency later. Keep documentation of your move (a lease, utility bill, or driver's license with a Utah address) in case the Division requests proof.
Rules You Must Follow While Fishing
Carrying your license is mandatory. You must have your physical license or a digital copy on your phone at all times while fishing. A wildlife officer can ask to see it, and failure to produce it can result in a citation.
Utah has specific rules about which fish species you can keep, how many you can keep (daily bag limits), and the minimum size for each species. These rules vary by water and by season. Before you fish a new location, check the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website or pick up a current fishing guidebook at a vendor to learn the rules for that specific water.
Some waters are catch-and-release only, meaning you must return all fish to the water immediately. Others allow you to keep a certain number of fish per day. Violating these rules can result in fines and loss of your fishing privileges.
Renewing Your License and Staying Current
Your license expires on December 31 each year. You can renew it at any time during the year you want to fish — there is no penalty for renewing early. Most anglers renew in late December or early January to ensure they have a current license for the new year.
Renewal follows the same process as your initial purchase: online, by phone, or at a vendor. If you purchased online before, the website may remember your information and make renewal faster. You will receive your new license immediately upon purchase.
Special Licenses and Exemptions
Utah offers a three-day tourist license for non-residents who want to fish temporarily. This license is cheaper than an annual resident license and is useful if you are visiting from out of state.
Certain disabled individuals may may have access to for a free disabled angler permit. To learn whether you may have access to, contact the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources directly. may be able to access is based on specific disabilities and requires documentation.
Children under 12 do not need a license if they fish under the direct supervision of a licensed adult. The adult must be present and actively supervising the child. This exemption does not apply if the child is fishing alone or with other children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish with my license in other states?
No. Your Utah resident license is valid only in Utah. If you travel to another state to fish, you will need to purchase a license in that state. Most states offer short-term licenses for visitors.
What happens if I lose my license or it gets damaged?
Contact the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and request a replacement. If you purchased online, you can usually download a new copy immediately from your account. If you purchased in person, you may need to repurchase the license or contact the vendor where you bought it.
Do I need a separate license to fish on tribal lands?
Tribal lands in Utah have their own fishing regulations and licensing requirements. You will need a separate permit from the tribe. Contact the specific tribe's fish and wildlife office before fishing on their lands.
Can I transfer my license to someone else?
No. A fishing license is non-transferable and is valid only for the person whose name appears on it. Each person who wants to fish must have their own current license.
What is the penalty for fishing without a license?
Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Utah wildlife law. Penalties include fines and possible loss of fishing privileges. The exact penalty depends on the circumstances and whether it is a first offense. A wildlife officer can cite you on the spot.