Washington D.C., the vibrant capital of the United States, is located on the Potomac River and Anacostia River. This unique location offers residents and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy urban fishing within a historical and bustling environment. If you’re planning to cast a line in the District’s waters, understanding the local fishing license requirements is essential. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information about obtaining a fishing license in Washington D.C., ensuring you comply with regulations and make the most of your fishing experience in this iconic city.
Understanding Washington DC Fishing License Fees
The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) manages fishing licenses in Washington D.C. and offers them on a calendar year basis. Licenses are valid from the date of purchase until December 31st of the same year, with all sales being final and non-refundable.
For those looking to purchase a license, the fees are structured as follows:
- District Resident: $10.00 – Purchase Here
- Non-Resident: $13.00 – Purchase Here
An angler enjoys fishing in Washington DC, highlighting the recreational opportunities available in the capital.
Important Notice: As of January 1, 2022, 14-Day Fishing Licenses are no longer available. Currently, fishing licenses are exclusively sold online for your convenience.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Washington DC?
While Washington D.C. encourages fishing as a recreational activity, it’s important to know who is required to have a license. You are not required to have a fishing license if you fall into either of these categories:
- Individuals under 16 years of age.
- Individuals 65 years of age or older.
For all other individuals aged 16 to 64, a valid Washington D.C. fishing license is mandatory to fish in any of the District’s waters, including popular spots like Rock Creek Park and all other fishable areas within D.C. This requirement applies regardless of whether you are fishing from the Virginia shoreline or from National Park lands within the District.
How to Access Your Fishing License
Upon purchasing your fishing license online, an electronic copy will be sent to the email address you provided during the transaction. It’s crucial to retain either a physical or electronic copy of your license on your person while fishing as proof of compliance.
If you do not immediately see your license in your inbox, please check your junk or spam folder for an email from ‘[email protected]‘ with the subject line ‘DOEE Customer Acknowledgement Email’. Should you still be unable to locate your license, reach out to DOEE Headquarters at 202-535-2260 or contact the Fishing License Coordinator via email at [email protected].
Scientific Research Permits for Aquatic Collection
For those involved in scientific research requiring the collection of fish or other aquatic organisms from District waters, a Scientific Research Permit is necessary.
The fee structure for these permits is:
- Nonprofit or Public Institution: No charge
- For-Profit Research Organization: $50.00
To apply for a scientific collection permit, please contact Rese Cloyd at [email protected].
DC Fishing Regulations: Stay Informed
To ensure responsible and sustainable fishing practices, it’s important to be aware of all fishing regulations in Washington D.C. A comprehensive guide to these regulations is available in the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Chapter 19-15. Familiarizing yourself with these rules will help protect aquatic resources and ensure a positive fishing experience for everyone.
By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, you can enjoy fishing in Washington D.C. responsibly and legally, appreciating the natural resources within this remarkable urban setting.
