Illinois

A nonresident annual fishing license in Illinois costs $31.50. For comparison, Illinois residents pay $15.00. Short-term options: Daily and short-term options available; check site. The license year runs March 1 - March 31 following year.

Purchase your Illinois fishing license online at https://dnr.illinois.gov/lpr/fishinglicensesfees.html. Valid ID; license year begins March 1. Licenses are administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

Under 16 exempt; senior, veteran, and first-time angler discounts available. Always check the official Illinois website for the most current exemption details and any additional categories that may qualify.

Salmon/Trout stamp required for inland trout and salmon; Lake Michigan Sport Fishing stamp. Be sure to purchase any required stamps or endorsements before heading out, as they are often checked during enforcement.

Fishing seasons in Illinois: Year-round for most species; specific trout/salmon seasons. Bag limits: Varies by species and water body; check regulations. Always consult the current Illinois fishing regulations for the most up-to-date season dates and limits, as they can change annually.

Some waters are catch-and-release only; specific size limits vary by location. For the complete set of rules including gear restrictions, size limits, and special waters, visit the official Illinois fish and wildlife website.

Illinois has the following border water or reciprocal agreements: Mississippi River border with Iowa/Missouri; Ohio River border with Kentucky/Indiana; Lake Michigan shared waters. New Hampshire is not directly included in these agreements, so a standard nonresident license is required.

For the most current regulations, license prices, and season dates, visit the official Illinois fishing page at https://dnr.illinois.gov/lpr/fishinglicensesfees.html. To purchase a license online, visit https://dnr.illinois.gov/lpr/fishinglicensesfees.html.