Understanding Your Fishing License for

Mississippi

Fishing in Mississippi is not just a hobby; it’s a way of life. With its abundant freshwater lakes, rivers, and the vast expanse of the Gulf of Mexico, Mississippi offers anglers diverse opportunities to reel in the big catch. However, before embarking on your fishing expedition, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of Mississippi’s fishing license requirements.

Resident vs. Non-Resident Licenses

For residents of Mississippi aged 16-64, fishing in the state’s fresh or marine waters requires the purchase of a fishing license. It’s important to note that this includes fishing in lakes and reservoirs but excludes privately owned ponds and streams. Depending on the type of water body, residents may need either a freshwater or saltwater fishing license.

• Freshwater Fishing License: Required for fishing in all public waters north of Interstate 10.
• Saltwater Fishing License: Required for fishing in all public waters south of U.S. Highway 90.

Residents fishing in the area between Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 90 can use either a freshwater or saltwater fishing license.

Non-residents, with the exception of minors under 16, are also required to obtain a fishing license when fishing in Mississippi’s freshwater or marine waters. Louisiana residents fishing in Mississippi’s marine waters must purchase both freshwater and saltwater licenses.

Convenient Auto Renewal Option

Renewing your fishing license has never been easier with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks’ (MDWFP) Auto Renew option. By enrolling through the MDWFP’s New Customer Dashboard on their website, anglers can renew their licenses hassle-free, bypassing the lines and getting back to enjoying the great outdoors faster than ever before.

Lifetime License Fees

For those who plan to spend a lifetime enjoying Mississippi’s fishing opportunities, lifetime license options are available:

• Lifetime License (birth through 12): $500.00 (Includes Sportsman, WMA User Permit, and Saltwater privileges)
• Lifetime License (13 and over): $1000.00 (Includes Sportsman, WMA User Permit, and Saltwater privileges)
• Non-Resident Native Lifetime License: $1500.00 (Includes All Game, Archery/Primitive Weapon/Crossbow, Deer Permit, Spring Turkey Permit, WMA User Permit, and Saltwater privileges)

Applications for lifetime licenses are processed exclusively at the Jackson Office.

Conclusion

Fishing in Mississippi offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. By understanding the state’s fishing license requirements and taking advantage of convenient renewal options, anglers can spend less time worrying about paperwork and more time enjoying the thrill of the catch. So, whether you’re casting your line in a freshwater lake or angling for saltwater species in the Gulf, make sure you have the proper license and get ready for an unforgettable fishing experience in the Magnolia State.

Mississippi fishing licenses can be purchased online or via the app provided by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. You can also visit any one of the Department’s sales offices or a valid fishing license vendor. Most vendors outside of the government offices are fishing stores or Walmarts.

Can You Buy a Mississippi Fishing License from Walmart?

A fishing license here can be bought from any Walmart store which has a dedicated outdoor and sporting goods department. In Mississippi, there are a total of 68 Walmart stores that should be equipped to sell Mississippi fishing licenses.

Mississippi Saltwater Fishing License

For residents of the state ages sixteen to sixty-four, an annual Mississippi saltwater license costs $10. For senior residents older than sixty-four, you can purchase a lifetime Mississippi saltwater license for $5.

Next, non-residents can purchase an annual saltwater fishing license for $30 or a three-day saltwater fishing license for $15. All saltwater fishing licenses also come with agent and processing fees not included in the prices listed above.