Fishing Licenses
| Name |
Fee |
Available Online |
| Resident Fishing License |
$15.00 |
Online |
| Resident Initial Commercial Fishing License |
$60.50 |
Online |
| Resident Lifetime Fishing License |
$435.00 |
Online |
| Resident Lifetime Sportsmen’s Combination Hunting/Fishing License |
$765.00 |
Online |
How do I get a free fishing license in Illinois?
The following groups can fish license-free:
- Illinois residents who have a disability.
- Persons on active duty in the Armed Forces.
- Illinois residents who are taking a child under the age of 16 fishing.
- Illinois residents who are owners or tenants of a property where waters flow on or over it can fish license-free.
Who is exempt from fishing license in Illinois?
If you are a Veteran you are exempt from a hunting and fishing license (see above). You are also exempt from purchasing a Habitat stamp. To be exempt you must be able to show proof of disability with a Veteran’s disability card ( at least 10% service connected).
Where can I get my fishing license in Illinois?
The most convenient way to buy an Illinois fishing license is online at the Department of Natural Resources website. Any license purchased online can also be reprinted at no charge.
How much is a fishing license in Illinois? – Related Questions
What license do I need to fish in Illinois?
Types of Illinois Fishing Licenses and Costs
| License Type |
Fee |
| Resident and non-resident sport fishing (24 hours) |
$5.50 |
| Non-resident sport fishing (10 days) |
$20 |
| Non-resident sport fishing (annual) |
$31.50 |
| Sportsmans License (combined hunting and fishing licenses) |
$26.25 |
Does Walmart sell Illinois fishing license?
Yes, you can buy a perfectly legal fishing license from any US-based Walmart by speaking to the staff in the Sports & Outdoors section. Expect to pay between $11 and $40, depending on the state, your age, and how long the license will be valid for.
How much is a lifetime Illinois fishing license?
How much is an Illinois fishing license for seniors?
Does Illinois have a senior citizen fishing license?
Q: Do Seniors get a free fishing license? A: Seniors who are residents of Illinois and are aged 65 and older receive a reduced fee for fishing and sport licenses. When senior residents turn 75, the fee is further reduced through our super senior license, which is only $1 plus . 50 handling fee.
How many rods can you fish with in Illinois?
a) Sport fishermen are permitted only one pole and line device to which can be attached no more than two hooks.
What fishing bait is illegal in Illinois?
Possession of live specimens, progeny thereof, viable eggs, or gametes is prohibited. 6) Collected live bait, including crayfish, shall not be transported between water bodies.
How many hooks are you allowed in Illinois?
Section 810. a) Sport fishermen are permitted only one pole and line device to which can be attached no more than two hooks. On the Mississippi River between Illinois and Iowa, the maximum treble hook size is 5/0; gaffs may not be used to land paddlefish.
Can you fish at night in Illinois?
Illinois. There are no particular laws for or against night fishing in Illinois. Snagging is permitted from March 1- April 15, 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset. It is permitted within a 500 yard downstream limit below locks and dams on the Mississippi River between Illinois and Iowa.
How many bluegill can you keep in Illinois?
There is limit of 25 fish-per day on all bluegills and redears. For more information, call (217) 854-8020.
Can you use live bait in Illinois?
Illinois. The use of shad, minnows and crayfish for live bait is legal in the state of Illinois. All fishermen with a valid license may obtain such fish via the use of cast nets, shad scoops, and minnow seines and use them as bait.
What is the fishing season in Illinois?
SPRINGFIELD – The 2022 Illinois fall trout fishing season will open Saturday, Oct. 15, at 59 ponds, lakes and streams throughout the state. An early opportunity at select trout sites, the fall catch-and-release fishing season, will open Oct. 1.
Can you eat fish you catch in Illinois?
Many anglers enjoy fishing in Illinois waters. They also enjoy eating their catch. Most fish are healthy to eat and provide an excellent source of low-fat protein.
What is the best place to fish in Illinois?
Fishing Spots in Illinois
- Rend Lake. Rend Lake near Mt.
- Crab Orchard Lake. Crab Orchard Lake near Carbondale is a fantastic spot to fish for bass, crappie, bluegill and sunfish.
- Powerton Lake. Powerton Lake is a 1,426-acre lake built on the floodplain of the Illinois River south of Perkin.
- Evergreen Lake.
- Shabbona Lake.
Can you fish in March in Illinois?
March fishing in Illinois: It’s a good time to catch bass, catfish, crappies and more at these waters. The month of March brings the hope and anticipation of spring. Thoughts turn to warmer days, spring flowers, early morning turkey gobbles and of course, awesome spring fishing.
What is the best bait to use in March?
Since March is nearly always windy, spinnerbaits should be considered a top choice. Always fish big laydowns or pole timber in the back of pockets with this bait. If the water is in the bushes, watch out! You could be in for the best fishing of the year with a spinnerbait.