inFOMATION ON BUYING YOUR aLASKA fISHING liCENSE
One very important item all anglers planning on fishing while in Alaska need is a fishing license. Purchasing a fishing license can be a daunting task as some states make this process difficult and confusing.
There is no need to worry, in Alaska, unlike other states, buying a fishing license is very simple. Most states require different licenses for certain areas and varying species but in Alaska all you need is a sport fishing license to fish for all species in fresh and salt water. The only exception is, if you plan to fish for King Salmon you will need a King Salmon stamp.
aLASKA fiSHING lICENSE faq'S
What type of license do I need?
A general sport fishing license is all you need to fish in both the rivers and ocean. The only exception is the King Salmon stamp which is required if targeting King Salmon.
Where can I buy an Alaska Fishing License?
In person:
There are a couple of different options you have to purchase a fishing license here in Alaska. As in most states you can purchase a paper copy anywhere fishing licenses are sold. Below is a list of places in the Soldotna/Kenai area where you can buy your fishing license over the counter.
- Trustworthy Hardware
- Sportsman’s Warehouse
- Walmart
- Ken’s Tackle
Online:
You can also buy your fishing license online. The site is very user friendly, and this can be a great option to buy your fishing license without waiting in line at a sporting goods store or if you need to buy a license outside of store hours. Below is the link to the Alaska Fish and Game online store.
Link to online store below:
Welcome to the ADF&G Store – State of Alaska Department of Fish and Game Online Store
What is a King Salmon Stamp, and do I need one?
You will only need a King Salmon stamp when specifically targeting King Salmon. Residents under 18 years old and non-residents under 16 years old do not need a King Stamp at anytime but will need a harvest card. Most fishing guides carry harvest cards but it’s a good idea to print one out for each kid just to be safe.
Link to print harvest card: sf_harvest_record_card.pdf (alaska.gov)
Do kids need a license in Alaska?
One of the great things about Alaska is that kids get to fish for free. Residents under 18 years of old and non-residents under 16 years old do not need a fishing license or King Salmon stamp but must have a harvest card (free) to document any fish with an annual limit i.e. King Salmon, Halibut.
Link to print harvest card: sf_harvest_record_card.pdf (alaska.gov)
Do I need a paper copy of my license?
You do not need a paper copy of your license as long as you can provide a digital copy of your license on your phone. I still urge anglers to print a copy to serve as a back-up copy as things can happen to your phone i.e. dead battery, drop in river, etc. You don’t want to get caught fishing without a fishing license.
How much does my fishing license cost?
One of the great things about Alaska is the affordability of fishing licenses for non-residents. Non-residents can obtain a 7-day license for only $45. They also offer a 1 – and – 3 day license option for anglers looking to fish less than a week.
Non-Resident Fishing License Prices 2024
Resident Fishing LIcense Prices 2024
Go get that license and get out fishing!
I hope this blog helps you better understand purchasing a fishing license in Alaska. If you are looking to book a fishing charter on the Kenai or Kasilof River give us a call. Tight lines.
907-912-0114
