Your Guide to Fishing in the USA
Find fishing locations, understand state regulations, and check license information before you head out on the water.
Plan Your Fishing Trip With Confidence
Fishing rules and license requirements can vary widely from one state to another. Use the resources below to find the information you need before your next fishing trip. Start by exploring locations, then check the regulations and confirm the license requirements for your destination.
USA Fishing Locations
Explore fishing destinations across the United States and discover places where anglers can plan their next trip.
- Explore fishing destinations
- Find popular fishing areas
- Discover species and seasonal opportunities
Fishing Regulations by State
Check state-specific fishing regulations and use the official resources provided for each state before fishing.
- Review state fishing rules
- Check seasons and restrictions
- Follow official state resources
Fishing Licenses by State
Find official fishing license resources for all 50 states and learn where to check current license requirements and purchasing options.
- Find your state’s license information
- Check resident and nonresident options
- Visit official licensing resources
How to Use These Fishing Resources
Use the three resources together when planning a fishing trip. This simple process can help you find a destination, understand the rules and make sure you check the correct license information.
Choose Your Destination
Start with the USA fishing map to explore locations and identify the state or area where you want to fish.
Check the Regulations
Once you know your destination, use the regulations map to find the relevant state fishing rules and official resources.
Confirm Your License
Finally, use the 50-state license guide to find the appropriate official licensing information before you go fishing.
Before You Go Fishing
1. Know where you are fishing. Fishing rules can differ between states and sometimes between different waters within the same state.
2. Check the current regulations. Look for information about seasons, size limits, bag limits, permitted methods, protected species and other restrictions that may apply to your trip.
3. Confirm your license. License requirements can depend on factors such as residency, age, fishing location and the type of fishing you plan to do.
4. Use official sources. When a resource provides a link to a state agency, always verify the current requirements directly with that official agency before fishing.