Fishing/Non-Commercial/Non-Residents
Non-Resident Fishing Licenses
Non-residents must have the required recreational fishing license and follow local regulations.
Overview
Planning to fish in Hawai‘i? Non-residents must obtain a recreational fishing license for saltwater and freshwater fishing. This page provides license types, fees, and how to purchase.
Saltwater Recreational Fishing
Who Needs a License?
Non-residents age 15 and older are required to have a marine recreational fishing license.
License Options & Fees
Age
Duration
Cost*
14 & under
N/A
N/A
15 & up
1 day
7 days
Annual
$20
$40
$70
* Small online processing fee not included
Important Notes
- Covers all legal methods of recreational saltwater fishing where allowed.
- Certain marine areas have restrictions on gear, species, or harvest.
- Some gear types require separate permits or additional conditions.
- Sale of aquatic life under this license is prohibited by law.
Buy or Renew
- Purchase Online at fishing.hawaii.gov
Freshwater Recreational Fishing
Streams and reservoirs across Hawai‘i offer access to species like catfish, bluegill, oscar, and more—great for experienced anglers or family outings.
Who Needs a License?
Non-residents age 9 and older must have a freshwater game fishing license.
License Options & Fees
Age
Duration
Cost*
8 & under
N/A
N/A
9 – 15
Annual
$3
16 – 64
7 days
30 days
Annual
$10
$20
$25
65 & up
Annual
Free (License still required)
* Small online processing fee not included
Additional Info
- License covers fishing for any species of introduced game fish.
- Fishing Lake Wilson requires the free Wahiawā Permit (available with your freshwater license).
- Sale of these fish is prohibited by law.
Buy or Renew
- Purchase Online at freshwater.ehawaii.gov
- In-person: DAR District Offices (Hilo, Kona, Līhu‘e, Wailuku, Honolulu)
Wahiawā Permit
Allows freshwater license holders to access and fish Lake Wilson (O‘ahu).
Cost: Free with license.
Other Permits
Looking for lay net permits or bottomfishing vessel registration?
Visit Licenses & Permis page for details.