What the Resident Combination License Includes
Washington's Resident Combination Fishing License is a single license that lets you fish in freshwater and saltwater, and hunt certain game animals, all under one permit. You do not need separate licenses for each activity — one combination license covers freshwater species like trout and bass, saltwater species like salmon and halibut, and small game hunting like waterfowl and upland birds.
The license is issued by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. It is the broadest option if you plan to do multiple types of fishing or want to add hunting to your year. If you fish only in freshwater or only in saltwater, or if you do not hunt, a single-purpose license may cost less.
The combination license does not include big game hunting (deer, elk, moose) or shellfish harvesting — those require separate tags or licenses purchased through WDFW. Trout endorsements, salmon endorsements, and other specialty stamps are also sold separately if you want them.
Key Takeaways
- The Resident Combination License covers freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, and small game hunting all in one permit, valid for one year.
- You can purchase the license online through the WDFW website, by phone, or at authorized retailers across Washington.
- The license is only for Washington residents — you must have lived in the state for at least three months and have a Washington address.
- Big game hunting tags and shellfish licenses are sold separately and do not come with the combination license.
- The price varies slightly depending on where and how you purchase, but the WDFW website shows the current cost.
Who Can Buy a Resident Combination License
You must be a Washington resident to purchase this license. The state defines a resident as someone who has lived in Washington for at least three consecutive months immediately before buying the license and who has a current Washington address. A Washington driver's license or state ID is the standard proof, though WDFW also accepts other documents showing residency.
If you have recently moved to Washington or are unsure whether you meet the three-month requirement, contact WDFW directly before purchasing. Buying a license you are not may have access to to can result in fines and confiscation of any fish or game you have taken.
Non-residents can purchase a separate non-resident combination license, which costs more and is valid for a shorter period (usually 10 days or one year, depending on the type chosen).
Where and How to Purchase
The easiest route is the WDFW website at wdfw.wa.gov, where you can buy and print your license instantly. You will need a valid email address and a payment method (credit or debit card). The printed license is valid immediately and is what you carry with you while fishing or hunting.
You can also purchase by phone by calling the WDFW licensing office during business hours. The phone number and hours are listed on the WDFW website. Processing by phone takes a few business days, and the license will be mailed to you.
Authorized retailers throughout Washington — sporting goods stores, outdoor shops, and some grocery stores — sell licenses over the counter. Retailers can print your license on the spot, though some may charge a small transaction fee in addition to the license cost. Call ahead to confirm the retailer has combination licenses in stock.
Cost and Renewal
The price of a Resident Combination License changes annually and varies slightly depending on whether you purchase online, by phone, or at a retailer. Check the WDFW website for the current year's price before you buy. Online purchases sometimes cost less than over-the-counter sales because there is no retailer fee.
Your license expires one year from the date of purchase. You do not have to wait until it expires to renew — you can purchase a new license at any time, and both will be valid during their respective periods. Many people renew online a few weeks before expiration to avoid any gap in coverage.
If your license is lost or damaged, WDFW can issue a replacement. Contact them through the website or by phone to request a duplicate.
What You Need to Carry While Fishing
You must have your license with you at all times while fishing or hunting in Washington. A printed copy from the WDFW website is sufficient — you do not need a physical card, though some retailers offer printed cards for a small additional fee. Many anglers photograph their license on their phone as a backup.
In addition to your license, you may need other documents depending on what you are fishing for. If you are fishing for salmon in saltwater, you need a current salmon endorsement. If you are fishing for certain trout species, you may need a trout endorsement. These are purchased separately through WDFW and are printed on the same document as your license or issued as separate stamps.
Check the WDFW website or the current fishing regulations pamphlet for the specific endorsements required for the species and water you plan to fish. Regulations change annually, so verify before you go.
Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing Rules Under the License
The Resident Combination License gives you the right to fish, but it does not override catch limits, season dates, or gear restrictions. Washington has different seasons and daily limits for different species and different regions of the state. Trout season in one river may be closed while another is open. Salmon seasons vary by water and by whether you are fishing from a boat or the shore.
The WDFW publishes an annual fishing pamphlet that lists all current seasons, limits, and gear rules by region and species. You can download it free from the WDFW website or pick up a printed copy at any retailer that sells licenses. Many anglers keep a copy in their tackle bag or vehicle.
Saltwater fishing has its own set of rules. Certain species require additional endorsements (like the salmon endorsement mentioned above). Halibut, lingcod, and rockfish have specific seasons and bag limits that change year to year. Check the saltwater fishing guide on the WDFW website before you head to the coast.
Small Game Hunting Included in the License
The combination license includes the right to hunt small game — waterfowl, upland birds like pheasant and quail, and other small game species defined by WDFW. Like fishing, hunting is governed by seasons and bag limits that change annually. Waterfowl hunting requires a federal duck stamp in addition to your state license.
Big game hunting (deer, elk, moose, bear) is not included and requires a separate tag purchased through a drawing system. Shellfish harvesting (clams, oysters, crab) also requires a separate license. If you are interested in either, contact WDFW for details on how to purchase those permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish in another state with my Washington resident license?
No. Your Washington license is valid only in Washington waters. If you plan to fish in another state, you will need to purchase that state's license. Some states offer short-term non-resident licenses (daily or weekly) that are less expensive than annual licenses.
What happens if I fish without a valid license?
Fishing without a license in Washington is a violation that can result in fines, confiscation of your catch and gear, and in some cases criminal charges. The penalties increase if you have prior violations. It is not worth the risk — the license is inexpensive compared to the cost of a violation.
Do I need a separate license if I want to fish only saltwater or only freshwater?
No, but you may save money by purchasing a single-purpose license if you fish only one type of water. WDFW offers freshwater-only and saltwater-only licenses at lower prices than the combination license. Compare the prices on the WDFW website to see which option is cheaper for your situation.
Can I buy a license as a gift for someone else?
Yes. You can purchase a license online or at a retailer and give it to someone else, as long as they are a Washington resident. The person receiving the license will need to sign it or write their name on it before using it. Some retailers also sell gift certificates that the recipient can redeem for a license of their choice.
What if I move out of Washington during the year?
Your license remains valid for the full year from the date of purchase, even if you move. However, you can only use it to fish in Washington. If you move to another state and want to fish there, you will need to purchase that state's license.