Connecticut Youth Fishing License for Ages 16 and 17

Connecticut issues a separate youth fishing license for anglers aged 16 and 17. This license costs less than an adult license and covers freshwater and saltwater fishing in state waters. You can buy it online through the Connecticut DEEP (Department of Energy and Environmental Protection) website, by phone, or in person at a license agent. The license is valid for one year from the date of purchase and does not require a hunter safety course or written exam.

The youth license gives you the same fishing rights as an adult license — you can fish any public water open to the public and keep the same daily catch limits. The main difference is the lower cost and the age restriction. Once you turn 18, you will need to switch to an adult license.

Key Takeaways

  • A Connecticut youth fishing license costs less than an adult license and is valid for one year from purchase.
  • You can buy the license online at ct.gov/deep, by phone at the DEEP licensing office, or through a licensed agent in your town.
  • The license covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing and requires no written exam or safety course.
  • You must carry your license with you whenever you fish, and it is valid only for ages 16 and 17.

Where to Buy a Youth License

The fastest way to buy a youth license is online through the Connecticut DEEP website. Go to ct.gov/deep, find the licensing section, and select the youth freshwater or youth saltwater option depending on where you plan to fish. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and address. Payment is by credit or debit card, and you receive a digital license immediately that you can print or show on your phone.

If you prefer to buy in person, visit any licensed agent in your town — usually a bait and tackle shop, sporting goods store, or town clerk's office. Call ahead to confirm they sell fishing licenses and have youth licenses in stock. You can also call the DEEP licensing office directly during business hours to purchase over the phone.

Cost and License Types

Connecticut offers two youth license options: youth freshwater and youth saltwater. The freshwater license covers lakes, ponds, and rivers. The saltwater license covers ocean and tidal waters. Each costs less than the equivalent adult license, though the exact price varies by year. Check ct.gov/deep for current pricing before you buy.

If you plan to fish both freshwater and saltwater, you will need both licenses. Some anglers buy a freshwater license first and add saltwater later in the year if they decide to fish the coast. There is no discount for buying both at once.

What You Need to Carry While Fishing

Connecticut law requires you to carry your fishing license with you at all times while you are fishing. If you bought a digital license online, you can show it on your phone or print a copy and keep it in your wallet. If you bought a physical license from an agent, keep the card or paper with you. A conservation officer can ask to see your license at any time, and fishing without one or without it on your person is a violation.

In addition to your license, bring a photo ID if you are fishing in a location where you might encounter a state officer. This is not required by law, but it makes the check faster and easier.

Fishing Seasons and Regulations

Connecticut has different open seasons for different species and different waters. Trout season typically opens in April and runs through September, but some waters have year-round trout fishing. Bass season opens in June. Saltwater species like striped bass and bluefish have their own seasons. Before you fish, check the current Connecticut fishing regulations on ct.gov/deep to confirm the season is open for the species and water you plan to fish.

Daily catch limits also vary by species. For example, you might be allowed to keep five trout per day in one water and three in another. The regulations booklet lists these limits by species and by specific lakes and rivers. Download it from the DEEP website or pick up a printed copy at a license agent.

Renewing Your License When You Turn 18

Your youth license is valid only while you are 16 or 17. Once you turn 18, you must buy an adult license to continue fishing. You can buy an adult license online, by phone, or in person using the same methods as the youth license. The adult license costs more but covers the same waters and species and is valid for one year.

There is no automatic renewal or upgrade from youth to adult. You have to purchase the adult license separately. If you fish after your 18th birthday without an adult license, you will be in violation even if your youth license has not yet expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish with someone else's license?

No. Connecticut requires each angler to have their own valid license. You cannot fish under someone else's name or share a license. If you are caught fishing without your own license, you will face a fine.

What happens if I lose my license?

Contact the DEEP licensing office or visit ct.gov/deep to request a replacement. You will need to provide your name and date of birth. A replacement license usually costs a small fee and can be issued as a digital license immediately or mailed to you as a physical card.

Do I need a license to fish in private ponds?

No. Connecticut does not require a license to fish in private ponds if you have the owner's permission. You do need a license to fish in public waters, including state-owned ponds and all rivers and streams open to the public.

Can I buy a license for just one day?

Connecticut does not offer daily or short-term youth licenses. The youth license is valid for one year from the date of purchase. If you fish only once or twice a year, you still need to buy the full annual license.

What if I turn 18 before my license expires?

Your youth license becomes invalid on your 18th birthday, even if the one-year period has not ended. You must buy an adult license before you fish again. There is no refund or credit for the unused portion of your youth license.