What You Need to Know About Nonresident Freshwater Licenses in Mississippi

A nonresident freshwater fishing license in Mississippi allows you to fish in freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams if you do not live in the state. You can buy one for a single day, three days, or a full year, depending on how long you plan to stay. The license is issued by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) and is required for anyone 16 and older who wants to fish legally in freshwater.

The license does not cover saltwater fishing — if you plan to fish in coastal waters or the Gulf of Mexico, you will need a separate saltwater license. Freshwater licenses are valid only for species like bass, catfish, bream, and crappie in inland waters.

Key Takeaways

  • Nonresident freshwater licenses are sold for one day, three days, or one year, with prices varying by duration.
  • You can buy a license online through the MDWFP website, by phone, or at authorized vendors like sporting goods stores and bait shops.
  • You must carry your license with you while fishing and show it to a game warden if asked.
  • Certain people — including children under 16 and residents over 69 — do not need a freshwater license in Mississippi.

License Types and Pricing

Mississippi offers three nonresident freshwater license options. A one-day license is the shortest commitment and costs less than a multi-day option. A three-day license gives you more time to fish without buying a full year. A one-year license is the best value if you plan to return to Mississippi regularly or stay for an extended period.

Prices change periodically and vary by license type. The MDWFP website lists current prices for each option. If you are unsure which length suits your trip, consider how many days you actually plan to fish — buying a one-year license for a weekend trip is unnecessary, but a three-day license for a week-long visit may not cover your entire stay.

Where and How to Buy Your License

You have three main ways to get a nonresident freshwater license. The fastest is online through the official MDWFP website, where you can buy and print your license immediately. You will need a valid form of identification and a payment method (credit or debit card). Your printed license is valid as soon as you receive it.

You can also call the MDWFP directly to purchase over the phone. A staff member will process your order and mail the license to you, which takes several business days. If you prefer in-person service, authorized vendors throughout Mississippi — including Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, local bait and tackle shops, and sporting goods stores — sell licenses at the counter. Bring your ID and be ready to pay in cash or card.

What Information You Will Need

When you buy a license, have your driver's license or state ID ready. You will need to provide your full name, date of birth, and address. If you are buying online, you will also need a valid email address to receive your license confirmation.

Some vendors may ask additional questions about where you plan to fish or what species you are targeting, but this is optional information. The core requirement is proof of identity and your personal details so the MDWFP can issue the license in your name.

Rules for Carrying and Using Your License

Once you have your license, you must carry it with you every time you fish in Mississippi freshwater. If a game warden stops you, you are required to show it on demand. If you bought your license online and printed it, bring the printed copy. If you received a physical license in the mail, bring that card.

Your license is valid only for you — it cannot be transferred to another person or used by someone else. If you lose your license, contact the MDWFP to request a replacement. Some vendors can issue a duplicate on the spot, while others may require you to order through the main office.

Who Does Not Need a Nonresident Freshwater License

Children under 16 can fish in Mississippi freshwater without a license, regardless of residency. Residents of Mississippi who are 70 years old or older also do not need a license. If you fall into either category, you still must follow all other fishing regulations — including catch limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures — but you skip the license purchase.

Active-duty military members stationed outside Mississippi may have different rules. Check the MDWFP website or call their office to confirm your status before fishing.

Fishing Regulations You Must Follow

Having a license does not mean you can fish anywhere or catch anything. Mississippi has specific rules about where you can fish, what species you can keep, and how many of each species you are allowed to take home. These rules vary by location and season — some waters are closed during certain months, and some species have minimum size limits or daily catch limits.

Before you fish, check the current Mississippi Fishing Guide on the MDWFP website. It lists all open seasons, catch limits, and size restrictions by species and region. Violating these rules can result in fines or confiscation of your catch, even if you have a valid license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish the day I buy my license?

Yes, if you buy online and print your license immediately, you can fish the same day. If you buy in person at a vendor, your license is valid right away. If you order by phone and have it mailed, you must wait until you receive it before fishing legally.

Do I need a separate license for each type of fish?

No. One nonresident freshwater license covers all freshwater species in Mississippi — bass, catfish, bream, crappie, and others. The license type depends only on how long you want it to last, not what you plan to catch.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Mississippi law. Game wardens can issue citations, which result in fines. The amount varies depending on the specific violation, but penalties can be substantial. It is not worth the risk.

Can I buy a nonresident license if I own property in Mississippi?

Owning property in Mississippi does not make you a resident for fishing license purposes. Residency is based on where you live, not where you own land. If you do not live in Mississippi, you need a nonresident license.

Is my license valid in all of Mississippi?

Your nonresident freshwater license is valid statewide in all freshwater waters open to public fishing. However, some private waters and specific areas have their own rules or require permission from the landowner. Always check local regulations for the specific lake or river where you plan to fish.