Fishing on Private Property

May 17, 2012

Question: Do I need a fishing license when fishing a private lake on a ranch behind a locked gate? There is no public access. The lake is fed by a year round creek that originates on federal land. The fish in it were planted by a private party, but the fish do run up the creek to spawn. Thanks for the clarification. (Ken, Alturas).

Answer: Yes, you need a fishing license. Even though this lake is on private property, a fishing license is required because the lake is fed by a permanent stream. A license would not be required if this lake is being maintained and operated as a licensed Aquaculture Facility.