Who Can Get a Nevada Junior Fishing License and What It Costs

Nevada offers a junior fishing license for anglers aged 12 to 17. The license costs $20 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. You do not need to pass a test or complete a hunter safety course to get one — you simply buy it and fish.

The junior license lets you fish in all Nevada waters where fishing is allowed, using the same methods and during the same seasons as adult anglers. The main difference is the price: an adult annual license costs $48, so the junior rate saves you $28 per year.

If you are under 12, you can fish for free without a license as long as you are supervised by a licensed angler who is at least 18 years old. That licensed adult does not need to be a parent or guardian — any adult with a valid Nevada fishing license can supervise.

Key Takeaways

  • Junior licenses are for ages 12 to 17 and cost $20 for one year, with no test or safety course required.
  • Children under 12 can fish free when supervised by any licensed adult angler aged 18 or older.
  • You can buy a junior license online through the Nevada Department of Wildlife website, by phone, or at vendor locations throughout the state.
  • The license covers all Nevada waters and all legal fishing methods during open seasons, the same as an adult license.
  • Junior licenses do not carry over to the next year — you must purchase a new one annually before the expiration date.

Where and How to Buy a Nevada Junior Fishing License

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) sells junior licenses through three main channels. The fastest route is online at the NDOW website, where you can purchase and print your license immediately. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and a valid mailing address in Nevada or out of state.

You can also buy a license by phone by calling the NDOW regional office that covers your area. The department has offices in Reno, Las Vegas, and Elko. Staff can process your order over the phone and mail the physical license to you, though this takes longer than the online option.

Retail vendors throughout Nevada also sell junior licenses, including sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart locations. Call ahead to confirm the vendor carries junior licenses, since not all locations stock them. Buying in person means you walk out with your license the same day.

What Waters You Can Fish and When

Your junior license is valid on all public waters in Nevada where the state allows fishing. This includes reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and streams managed by NDOW. The license does not cover private property — you need the landowner's permission to fish on private land, whether you have a license or not.

Fishing seasons and daily catch limits vary by water body and species. Trout, bass, catfish, and panfish each have their own rules. Before you fish a specific lake or river, check the current regulations on the NDOW website or in the Nevada Fishing Guide, which lists seasons, limits, and size restrictions for each major water body.

Some waters have special rules — catch-and-release only, fly fishing only, or restricted hours. Your license does not override these rules. The NDOW website has detailed maps and regulation summaries for popular fishing areas, and you can also call a regional office to ask about a specific location.

Fishing Methods and Gear Allowed Under a Junior License

A junior license covers all legal fishing methods in Nevada: rod and reel, fly fishing, hand lines, and nets (where permitted). You can use live bait, artificial lures, or flies. There are no restrictions on tackle type or technique based on your age — the same gear that works for an adult angler works for you.

Some waters do restrict method — for example, a lake might allow only fly fishing, or only artificial lures. These restrictions apply to everyone, not just junior license holders. Check the specific water's rules before you go, because using a prohibited method can result in a citation even if you have a valid license.

Renewing Your License Before It Expires

Your junior license expires one year from the purchase date. You must renew it before that date if you want to keep fishing legally. The renewal process is the same as the initial purchase: buy online, by phone, or at a retail vendor.

NDOW does not send renewal reminders, so mark your expiration date on a calendar. If your license expires and you fish without a valid one, you can be cited for fishing without a license. The fine varies but typically starts at $100 or more, plus potential court costs.

If you turn 18 before your junior license expires, you can continue using it until the expiration date. After that, you will need to buy an adult license if you want to keep fishing.

What Happens If You Fish Without a Valid License

Fishing without a valid license in Nevada is a violation of state law. A game warden can stop you at any time to check your license. If you do not have one, you will receive a citation. Penalties include fines starting around $100, and repeat violations carry higher fines and possible court appearance requirements.

The citation goes on your record and can affect your ability to get a license in the future. If you lose your license or it is damaged, contact NDOW to request a replacement. Replacements are usually free or low-cost and can be issued quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish out of state with a Nevada junior license?

No. A Nevada junior license is valid only in Nevada waters. If you want to fish in another state, you need that state's fishing license. Each state sets its own license requirements and fees. Contact the fish and wildlife agency in the state where you plan to fish to learn what you need.

Do I need a separate license for different types of fish?

No. One junior license covers all freshwater fish species in Nevada — trout, bass, catfish, panfish, and others. There is no separate license for saltwater fishing because Nevada has no ocean coastline. The license is the same regardless of what species you target.

What if I lose my license before it expires?

Contact the Nevada Department of Wildlife to request a replacement. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and the original purchase date. Replacements are usually issued quickly, either by mail or in person at an NDOW office. There may be a small fee, but it is less than buying a new license.

Can I buy a junior license if I do not live in Nevada?

Yes. You do not have to be a Nevada resident to buy a junior license. You will need a valid mailing address (in Nevada or out of state) and proof of your age. Out-of-state junior anglers pay the same $20 fee as Nevada residents.

What if I turn 18 before my license expires?

You can continue using your junior license until it expires. After the expiration date, you will need to buy an adult license if you want to keep fishing. There is no automatic upgrade — you must purchase a new license.