A small jewel located in the northeast, Vermont offers freshwater anglers an abundant choice of beautiful rivers, lakes, and streams. For Trout fishing enthusiasts, Vermont is one destination you can’t afford not to visit.
While you’re planning your fishing adventure in the beautiful state of Vermont, there’s one crucial thing you’ll need, a Vermont fishing license. Regardless of where you plan on fishing, Lake Champlain or the streams of the magnificent Green Mountains, a valid permit is the first step.
In the following guide to Vermont fishing licenses, we’ll cover:
If you are considering a destination Trout fishing trip to Vermont, be sure to read our Trout of North America: The Complete Guide. It’s packed with helpful information to help you plan the perfect Trout fishing vacation.
The premium Fishing Forecasting App, Fishbox, allows you to track weather, tide, and atmospheric conditions to accurately predict the best times to hit the water, significantly increasing your chances of catching fish. It even has helpful information about local hotspots and secret fishing locations in Vermont contributed by users.
Types of VT Fishing Licenses
To make fishing as accessible and affordable as possible, Vermont offers several different license types for residents and non-residents.
Vermont Resident Fishing Licenses
- 3-Day License;
- Annual Fishing License;
- Annual Youth License (15-17);
- 5-Year License;
- Permanent License (66+).
Vermont Non-Resident Fishing Licenses
- 1-Day License;
- 3-Day License;
- 7-Day License;
- Annual License;
- Annual Youth (15-17);
- 5-Year License.
Cost of Vermont Fishing Licenses
Below, we have a full breakdown of the different resident and non-resident fishing license types and costs for the state of Vermont. For a complete list of licenses and to check any updated prices, please visit the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department website.
To make fishing as accessible and as affordable as possible, the state of Vermont offers several different license types for both residents and non-residents. These include:
Vermont Resident Fishing Licenses
- 3-Day License – $11.00;
- Annual Fishing License – $28.00;
- Annual Youth License (15-17) – $8.00;
- 5-Year License – $134.00;
- Permanent License (66+) – $60.00.
Vermont Non-Resident Fishing Licenses
- 1-Day License – $21.00;
- 3-Day License – $23.00;
- 7-Day License – $31.00;
- Annual License – $54.00;
- Annual Youth (15-17) – $15.00;
- 5-Year License – $264.00.
Age Requirements for VT Fishing License
To help promote and grow the sport of angling in Vermont, anyone under the age of 15 can fish in Vermont without a fishing license.
In another way to get people, old or young, into fishing, Vermont also has two free fishing days where anyone can fish without a license. All other fishing regulations still apply. Vermont’s two free fishing days are the second Saturday of June and the last Saturday of January, giving anglers a taste of summer and winter fishing action.
There are also some license exemptions for anglers with disabilities. These include:
- Legally-Blind Residents – Can apply for a free, permanent license.
- Permanent-Mobility Disability – Can apply for a free, permanent fishing license.
- Certain Non-Residents with Disabilities – You can apply for a one-year fishing or combination license.
- Veteran Residents with Service-Connected Disability of 60% or Greater – Can apply for a free, permanent license.
Please visit the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department website for more information on fishing license exemptions.
Where to Obtain a VT Fishing License
Getting a Vermont fishing license is easy, and there are three different ways to do it:
- Online – If you visit the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department website to purchase your license online.
- In-Person – If you’d prefer to purchase your license in person, you can do so at one of the many authorized license agents located throughout the state of Vermont. Visit this link for a complete list of licensed agents.
- In-Person Montpellier Office – You can also visit the main VFWD office that’s located in Montpelier and purchase your fishing license in person if you prefer.
Please note that all licenses, once purchased, are non refundable and non transferable. If you want to give someone a Vermont fishing license, the best way to do it is by buying a gift certificate from the VFWD.
Complete Guide to Vermont Fishing Licenses | Conclusion
There you go! Everything that you need to know about Vermont fishing licenses and permits, including what types of licenses are available, how much they cost, where to purchase one, and any age exemptions.
While brushing up on the Vermont season, size, and bag limits, check for any season closures or updates. When you’re fishing, consider being a responsible angler, keeping only the fish you need and safely returning any excess fish to the water for future generations of anglers to enjoy.
The Fishbox allows anglers to accurately track weather conditions and predict the best time to go fishing. Fishbox App utilizes in-depth analysis of weather patterns, fish behavior, and tidal and lunar conditions to predict the best times to go angling and when you’re better off relaxing at home.
If you have any questions about Vermont fishing licenses or would like to learn more about Vermont permits, please don’t hesitate to drop a comment below, and if you found it helpful, give it a share. We love to read feedback from our valued users and supporters.