Fishing Regulations – What Rules Might Apply

Think that your fishing pole, bait and spare tackle are all you need before you hit the water in search of supper? In almost every fishing hole, there are laws governing who can fish, what can be taken and other aspects of your fishing adventure. Take a look at some of the more common laws required for fishing.

The fishing license is pretty much a uniform requirement across the United States. In general, children (under 16 years of age in most places) don't need a fishing license but adults past that age are required to have a license. That license isn't a free ticket to your fishing expedition, however.

For example, if you cross a state line, you'll likely be required to purchase a fishing license from the fishing authority in that state. In many cases, these "out-of-state" permits are much more expensive than the license a state resident purchases. You can save some money by purchasing only a temporary license, and this could be your best bet if you're planning only to fish for a few days. Keep in mind that the expiration date on that license is the end of your legal fishing in that state until you purchase another. The fines for fishing without a license or having an expired license can be rather expensive.

If you aren't a licensed fisherman but would like to hit the water with some youngsters, beware. As a general rule, if you're holding a pole - you're fishing. If you're going to be helping any of the kids in your fishing party, you're probably going to need a fishing license, just to be safe. Remember that the fines are generally much more costly than the license and can save you the embarrassment of a court date.

Fishing is also highly regulated in some areas. If the water is used as a drinking water source, you'll probably be limited with regard to what you can use for bait. It could be that the requirements include that you use only artificial bait or that you use only live bait. This is usually an effort to limit the amount of blood that's introduced into the water supply.

Other possible regulations include the size of boat or boat motor allowed on a particular waterway, and the size and number of fish you are allowed to take. Just because the state's regulations call for a specific bag limit doesn't mean that a particular waterway can't enforce additional limits or requirements. In some cases, the additional restrictions are an effort to allow the fish population a better chance. Be sure to check with your local fishing authority before you start fishing so that you can be in compliance with applicable laws.