Fishing With a Youth Angler

July 5, 2018

Question: My 15-year-old wants to go fishing. I want to take him, but I cannot afford a fishing license for myself. Do I have to have one for my boy to fish? (Traci)

Answer: We thank you for taking the time to take your son fishing. We think it is one of the best activities families can do together – it’s great bonding time and generates lasting memories. Any child or young adult 15 years of age or younger does not need a fishing license to fish. All other regulations still apply, such as bag and possession limits. If fishing for sturgeon, abalone, lobster or steelhead (which all need additional report cards), then they will have to purchase those.

To answer your question, you may assist your son with things like setting up gear and teaching how to use the rod and reel but you must be careful to distinguish that you are not actively fishing by avoiding acts like reeling in fish (for that, you would need a fishing license yourself). If you would like to try your hand at fishing alongside your son, you might consider a one-day sport fishing license, which is a less-expensive alternative to an annual license. A one-day license is $15.69, while an annual license is $48.34. You could also fish with him from a public pier (where you do not need a license) or take him out on one of CDFW’s two Free Fishing Days (July 7 and Sept. 1 this year). Read more about this below. Enjoy your fishing trip and good luck to you and your son!