Free and Reduced-Price Fishing and Hunting Licenses in New York

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Before you pay full price, check whether you qualify for a discount!

That’s one of my favorite strategic-shopping habits, and it applies to more than groceries. Here in the North Country, fishing and hunting are part of life for many families. Checking license benefits is another way to make your money go further.

Who May Qualify?

• Children: Ages 15 and younger don’t need a freshwater fishing license. Junior hunting licenses for ages 12–15 cost $5 for residents and nonresidents.
• Seniors: New York residents age 70+ pay $5 each for fishing, hunting, and trapping licenses.
• Veterans: New York residents with a service-related disability of at least 40% pay $5 for their first fishing, hunting, or trapping license purchased in a calendar year; the other two types are free within that year.
• Military members: Certain service members qualify for free licenses or resident rates, depending on residency, service status, and assignment.
• Legally blind New York residents: Qualify for a free fishing license.
• Indigenous Nation members: DEC’s free-license program covers enrolled Shinnecock, Unkechaug, and Haudenosaunee members residing on reservations wholly or partly in New York. Separate provisions recognize Nation sovereignty and tribal identification.
• Full-time nonresident students: Those attending a New York college or university qualify for resident rates.

Eligibility documentation, hunter education, and other applicable rules still apply. Printing or mailing fees may also apply. See DEC’s complete requirements and application instructions.

Check Before You Make the Trip

I like to do a little homework before spending money—or making a trip that could have been avoided.

Find the category that applies to you, read the current instructions, and gather your documents before applying. If something isn’t clear, ask DEC or a license-issuing agent rather than guessing.

This article is a starting point, not a complete guide to hunting and fishing regulations. Always check the current rules for your planned activity.

Small Savings Are Worth Checking

You don’t have to qualify for every discount to benefit from asking. One reduced fee may leave a little more room in your family’s budget.

And if these options don’t apply to you, perhaps they could help a parent, grandparent, veteran, student, or friend.

That’s what I love about sharing savings ideas: sometimes the most useful tip is simply knowing what to ask about.

Check New York License Discounts

Did you know these options were available? Share this post with someone who might find it helpful!