Bluebank Branch

Fishing in Kentucky requires a valid state fishing license for anglers. Options include resident and non-resident, annual, short-term, and combination permits, purchasable online or at licensed vendors.

In Kentucky, no fishing license is required for anglers under 16 or residents 65 and older. A few other exceptions worth knowing:

• Free fishing days — most states designate 1–2 weekends a year where anyone can fish without a license

• Tribal waters — tribal members fishing on tribal land operate under separate tribal regulations

• Private ponds — landowners fishing their own water typically don't need a license

Non-residents usually pay more for a license than residents. Some species also require an extra stamp or endorsement on top of your base license.