Is a License Required to Do Catch-and-release Fishing?

November 13, 2008

Question: I am interested in fishing both freshwater and saltwater but plan to do only catch-and-release fishing. Will I still need a license if I’m fishing only for fun and not keeping any of the fish I catch? Thanks! (Josh)

Answer: The answer is YES! You will need to buy a license even for catch-and-release fishing. You must have a fishing license to engage in the act of fishing regardless of whether you intend to keep fish or not. “Take” is defined in the regulations as even the “attempt to pursue or take” a fish or animal.