What a Washington Youth Fishing License Covers
A youth fishing license in Washington is a reduced-cost permit that lets young anglers fish for most freshwater and saltwater species without a full adult license. The license covers the same waters and species as a standard license — salmon, trout, steelhead, bass, walleye, and others — but costs less and is designed for people under a certain age threshold.
Washington issues youth licenses to anglers ages 15 and under. Once you turn 16, you need a standard adult license. The youth license is valid for one year from the date of purchase and covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing, though some species and waters have additional restrictions that apply to all anglers regardless of license type.
You do not need a separate license for each type of water or species. One youth license covers everything within the state's general fishing rules. However, certain fisheries — like some salmon seasons or specific trout streams — may require an additional catch record card or special permit, which you would purchase separately.
Key Takeaways
- Washington youth licenses are for anglers 15 and under and cost significantly less than adult licenses.
- One youth license covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing across the entire state for one year.
- You can purchase a youth license online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website, by phone, or at licensed retailers.
- Youth anglers must still follow all state fishing regulations, including season dates, catch limits, and size restrictions.
- At age 16, you must switch to an adult license to continue fishing legally.
How to Purchase a Youth License
The fastest way to get a youth license is through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) website at wdfw.wa.gov. You can buy online immediately and print a temporary license to use right away while your permanent license arrives by mail. The online purchase takes about five minutes and requires the young angler's name, date of birth, and a valid payment method.
If you prefer not to buy online, you can call the WDFW licensing office or visit a licensed retailer in person. Retailers include sporting goods stores, outdoor shops, and some grocery stores throughout Washington. Call ahead to confirm they have youth licenses in stock, since smaller retailers may not carry them regularly.
You will need the young angler's full legal name and date of birth to complete any purchase. If buying in person, bring a photo ID or birth certificate to verify age. The license is non-transferable — it must be purchased in the name of the person who will be fishing.
Cost and Validity Period
Youth licenses cost less than half the price of an adult license. The exact cost varies slightly depending on how you purchase it — online purchases may include a small processing fee — but the base license fee is set by the state. Check the current price on the WDFW website before you buy, since fees can change annually.
Once purchased, a youth license is valid for one year from the date of issue. You do not have to use it immediately; you can buy it in advance and use it whenever you are ready to fish. When the license expires, you will need to purchase a new one if you want to continue fishing.
What Regulations Still Apply to Youth Anglers
Having a youth license does not exempt you from any fishing rules. You must still follow all state regulations on catch limits, size restrictions, and season dates. If a stream is closed to fishing, it is closed to youth anglers too. If a species has a two-fish daily limit, that limit applies whether you hold a youth or adult license.
Some waters have special rules for young anglers — for example, certain lakes may have youth-only fishing days or reduced size requirements to encourage participation. Check the WDFW fishing rules pamphlet or website for your specific area to see if any youth-specific opportunities exist where you plan to fish.
You must carry your license with you while fishing. If you purchased online and printed a temporary license, that temporary version is valid and legal to carry. When your permanent license arrives, carry that instead. A game warden can ask to see your license at any time, so always have it on hand.
Where Youth Can Fish in Washington
A youth license is valid statewide — you can fish any public water in Washington that is open to fishing. This includes rivers, streams, lakes, and saltwater areas managed by the state. Private property requires the owner's permission regardless of your license type.
Some of the most popular youth fishing spots are the lakes and streams in the Cascade foothills, the Columbia River system, and Puget Sound. Many of these areas have good populations of trout, bass, and salmon that are accessible to young anglers. The WDFW website lists specific fishing opportunities by region and species, which can help you find water near you.
Before heading out, check whether the specific water you want to fish is open during the season you plan to visit. Seasons vary by species and location — some trout streams open in late April, while others open later in spring or summer. The WDFW fishing rules pamphlet lists all current seasons and is updated annually.
Transitioning to an Adult License at Age 16
When a young angler turns 16, the youth license is no longer valid. You must purchase an adult license before fishing again. There is no grace period or overlap — once you reach 16, you need the adult license immediately if you want to fish legally.
An adult license covers the same waters and species as a youth license but costs more. It is also valid for one year from purchase. You can buy an adult license through the same channels as a youth license: online through the WDFW website, by phone, or at a licensed retailer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate saltwater license if I have a youth license?
No. One youth license covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing throughout Washington. You do not need to purchase separate licenses for different water types or regions.
Can I fish with a youth license if I am 16 but have not had a birthday yet this year?
No. Once you turn 16, you must have an adult license, regardless of whether your birthday falls early or late in the calendar year. Purchase an adult license before your 16th birthday so you can fish legally on that date.
What happens if I lose my youth license?
Contact the WDFW licensing office or visit a retailer to request a replacement. You will need to provide your name and date of birth. There may be a small replacement fee. In the meantime, if you have your temporary printed license from your original purchase, that is still valid to carry while you wait for a replacement permanent license.
Can I buy a youth license as a gift for someone else?
Yes, but the license must be purchased in the name of the young angler who will use it. You cannot buy it in your own name and transfer it. When you purchase, provide the recipient's full legal name and date of birth so the license is issued correctly.
Do I need a catch record card or special permit in addition to my youth license?
For most fishing, the youth license is all you need. However, some specific fisheries — particularly certain salmon seasons or special trout areas — require an additional catch record card or permit. Check the WDFW rules for the specific water and species you plan to fish to see if anything extra is required.