If you are 15 years of age or older, you need a license to fish. Licenses are FREE for Massachusetts residents 15-17 years of age, and those 70 and over. You can get your license online using MassFishHunt.
You need to carry your license when fishing
You must carry your license with you when fishing, either as a paper copy or on your smartphone. If asked, anglers have to display a true, complete, and legible image of a valid license.
Licenses expire each year on Dec. 31. You can renew your license online at MassFishHunt or print a duplicate copy if you’ve lost it.
Residents with disabilities
If you are blind, have an intellectual disability, or have paraplegia and are applying for a license for the first time, you must:
- Fill out an application for the free license.
- Submit a copy of a Certificate of Blindness issued by the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, or have your doctor sign a form certifying that you have an intellectual disability or paraplegia.
- Mail the documents to:
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
ATTN: Licensing
251 Causeway St.
Suite 400
Boston, MA 02114
Your license will be mailed to you. After you've applied the first time, you’ll be able to renew and print your license online without submitting another form.