Do I need a fishing license?

A fisheries officer checks an angler's fishing credentials, helping ensure compliance with New York's licensing requirements and conservation regulations. Before fishing on Long Island, anglers should make sure they have the appropriate freshwater license or saltwater registration for the waters they plan to fish. File photo: David Herraez Calzada, licensed. — A fisheries officer checks an angler’s fishing credentials, helping ensure compliance with New York’s licensing requirements and conservation regulations. Before fishing on Long Island, anglers should make sure they have the appropriate freshwater license or saltwater registration for the waters they plan to fish. File photo: David Herraez Calzada, licensed.

Yes, a fishing license is required for many types of fishing on Long Island, although the specific license depends on whether you plan to fish in freshwater or saltwater. New York offers separate licensing requirements for each, and some exemptions may apply.

In Short

Anyone age 16 or older who fishes in New York’s freshwater generally needs a New York State Freshwater Fishing License. Saltwater anglers fishing along Long Island’s ocean, bays, and tidal waters must register with the free New York Recreational Marine Fishing Registry. Before heading out, it’s also a good idea to explore our Long Island Fishing guide for popular fishing locations and tips.

Do I Need a Fishing License?

The answer depends on where you plan to fish. If you’re fishing in freshwater lakes, ponds, streams, or rivers on Long Island, most anglers age 16 and older are required to have a valid New York State Freshwater Fishing License.

If you’re fishing in the Atlantic Ocean, Long Island Sound, Great South Bay, Peconic Bay, or other tidal waters, you generally do not need to purchase a traditional fishing license. However, anglers age 16 and older are typically required to enroll in the free New York Recreational Marine Fishing Registry before fishing in saltwater.

Fishing regulations, size limits, catch limits, and seasonal restrictions vary depending on the species and body of water. Before your trip, be sure to review the current regulations and obtain any required licenses or registrations.

Whether you’re casting from a beach, pier, charter boat, lake, or river, having the proper license or registration helps support conservation efforts and ensures you’re fishing legally while enjoying Long Island’s outstanding freshwater and saltwater opportunities.

Quick Facts

Fishing Type	Requirement
Freshwater Fishing	A New York State Freshwater Fishing License is generally required for anglers age 16 and older.
Saltwater Fishing	Registration with the free New York Recreational Marine Fishing Registry is generally required for anglers age 16 and older.
Popular Saltwater Areas	The Atlantic Ocean, Long Island Sound, Great South Bay, and the Peconic Bays.
Popular Freshwater Areas	Lakes, ponds, streams, reservoirs, and rivers throughout Long Island.
Before You Fish	Always review current regulations, seasons, and catch limits before heading out.

Long Island offers outstanding fishing opportunities throughout the year, from freshwater ponds to world-class saltwater fisheries. Before your trip, make sure you have the appropriate license or registration, review the latest regulations, and visit our Long Island Fishing guide to discover some of the island’s best places to fish.