Missouri Fishing License

Missouri Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers

Visitors fishing with Eric Massey Fish Co on Truman Reservoir, Pomme de Terre Lake, or Stockton Lake should purchase the correct Missouri fishing permit before arriving. Missouri calls its fishing licenses “permits,” and anglers must carry proof of a valid permit while fishing. These trips take place on freshwater lakes, so there is no separate Missouri saltwater license. Regulations, limits, and legal fishing methods can vary by species, season, and location.

Who Needs a Missouri Fishing License?

Missouri residents ages 16 through 64 generally need a valid fishing permit unless they qualify for an exemption. Nonresidents age 16 and older also need a fishing permit. Anglers age 15 and younger may fish without a general permit, while Missouri residents age 65 and older are exempt from the standard fishing permit requirement. Certain fishing methods, waters, or species may still require additional permits or tags.

Missouri Fishing License Prices

For 2026, the annual Missouri fishing permit costs:

• Missouri resident: $14
• Nonresident: $57
• Daily permit: $9 per day for residents or nonresidents

A daily permit can be purchased for multiple days, making it a practical option for travelers booking a six-hour or eight-hour fishing trip. Prices may change, so guests should confirm current fees through the Missouri Department of Conservation before purchasing.

Freshwater and Saltwater License Rules

Missouri is a landlocked state, so anglers do not need a Missouri saltwater license. A standard Missouri fishing permit covers freshwater fishing for species such as Crappie, Catfish, and Walleye. Special permits may apply when fishing for or possessing Trout, but Trout are not among the primary species targeted on trips with Eric Massey Fish Co.

How to Get a Fishing License in Missouri

Guests can purchase a Missouri fishing license online through the Missouri Department of Conservation, through the free MO Fishing mobile app, or from many sporting goods stores and approved permit vendors throughout the state. Buying in advance is recommended so your fishing time is not delayed on the day of the trip.

Fishing License Exemptions

Common exemptions include:

• Residents and nonresidents age 15 and younger
• Missouri residents age 65 and older
• Other qualifying individuals listed under Missouri permit exemptions

An exemption from the general permit does not automatically waive every special permit, tag, or location-specific requirement. Review current Missouri Department of Conservation regulations before fishing.

Before Your Eric Massey Fish Co Trip

Each guest is responsible for purchasing the required Missouri fishing permit before joining Eric Massey Fish Co in the Missouri Ozarks. Keep a digital or printed copy available during the trip, and review current limits for Crappie, Catfish, and Walleye on Truman Reservoir, Pomme de Terre Lake, or Stockton Lake. Preparing your license in advance helps ensure a smooth start to your private guided fishing trip.