Sporting Licenses
Fishing, Hunting and Trapping
The Department issues sporting licenses for fishing, hunting and trapping and a registry for marine fishing. Sporting licenses are citizens' authorization to use the state's resources, as well as DEC's principal tool for managing the state's fish and wildlife populations.
How to Purchase a Sporting License or Register for Marine Fishing
Review detailed and important information on purchasing licenses and registering for recreational sporting activities.
License Types and Fees
Review a quick reference to all available sporting licenses and fees.
For detailed information pertaining to each sporting license or registry, click on the appropriate link to the left.
Valid Dates of Licenses, Registration and Permits
- 2010-11 Licenses for Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping are valid until September 30, 2011.
- 2011 Recreational Marine Fishing Registration is valid until December 31, 2011.
Other Licenses and Permits
The Department also issues:
- Special licenses and permits, such as licenses for wildlife rehabilitators and outdoor guides.
- Commercial marine licenses and permits, such as for shellfish harvesting.
More about Sporting Licenses :
- How to Purchase a Sporting License - You may purchase sporting licenses and permits via DECALS at all license issuing outlets, via the internet, by phone at 1-86-NY-DECALS (1-866-933-2257), or by mail.
- Sporting License Fees - A list of sporting licenses and their associated fees for hunting, fishing and trapping.
- Fishing Licenses - New York State fishing license information.
- Recreational Marine Fishing Registry - Information for anglers on the recreational marine fishing registry
- Hunting Licenses - Information about hunting licenses and hunter education.
- Trapping Licenses - Information about trapping licenses.
- Lifetime Sporting Licenses - Information about New York State resident lifetime sporting licenses.
- Sporting Licenses Under the Patriot Plan - NYS Residents who are active service members of either the New York State Organized Militia, U.S. Reserve Forces, or certain members of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for free sporting licenses.
- Sporting License Sales Summary - Summary of sales for sporting licenses from 2002/2003 through the current license year.
- Sporting License Privilege Holders Summary - Summary of holders of sporting licenses from 2002/2003 through the current license year.
- Habitat/Access Stamp - Please consider purchasing a Habitat/Access Stamp to help conserve habitat and increase public access for fish and wildlife recreational activities.
- Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact - Effective March 1, 2006, NYS joined the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact (IWVC). The IWVC is a compact under which member states reciprocate regarding the suspension or revocation of licenses and permits.
