ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will implement new fees for nontidal fishing licenses and trout stamps starting June 1, 2025, marking the first adjustment in nearly two decades. The changes, addressing a 56% rise in nontidal fishing program costs over 18 years and a 129% increase in trout program expenses over 33 years, aim to sustain conservation efforts and angler resources amid inflation.
The updated fee structure, recommended by a workgroup from the Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission, Black Bass Advisory Committee, and Coldwater Fisheries Advisory Committee, was passed by the Maryland legislature and signed into law by Governor Wes Moore in 2025.
The rates reflect inflation based on the Bureau of Statistics Consumer Price Index, comparisons with neighboring states, and national averages. DNR’s Fishing and Boating Services Director Lynn Fegley said, “Fisheries management and conservation contribute to Maryland’s natural beauty and bolster our outdoor recreation economy. We approach fee adjustments deliberately because we know anglers make our work possible. Every nontidal fishing license purchased represents a direct investment in the future of Maryland’s aquatic resources and recreational opportunities.”
New fees include: Resident Nontidal License, $32; Resident 7-Day Nontidal, $16; Resident Trout Stamp, $20; Non-Resident Nontidal, $55; Non-Resident 7-Day, $45; Non-Resident 3-Day, $35; Non-Resident Trout Stamp, $30; and Senior Consolidated, $12 (trout stamp additional). Non-resident fees may vary based on reciprocal charges by their home states. The adjustments will fund hatchery operations, trout stocking, waterway access improvements, invasive species control, and sustainable fisheries management.
Maryland’s freshwater fishing programs operate on a user-pay, public-benefit model, with 95% of the Freshwater Fisheries and Hatcheries Division’s funding from angling activities. License sales contribute 65%, federal excise taxes on fishing equipment provide 30%, and state taxes cover 5%. The division monitors, manages, and stocks freshwater species while promoting public access. Fegley emphasized that license revenue directly supports fish population assessments and conservation, critical for Maryland’s 600,000 annual anglers.
Licenses can be purchased online, at DNR service centers, or through sport license agent retailers. They are valid for 365 days from purchase, with renewals available up to 90 days before expiration, extending validity for another year. Current license holders are encouraged to renew early to lock in existing rates before June 1.
Maryland, with over 7,000 miles of freshwater streams and rivers, supports a robust fishing economy, generating millions in revenue. The fee changes ensure the DNR can maintain hatcheries, combat invasive species like northern snakehead, and enhance fishing access points. Anglers can stay informed.