Mississippi Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers

Mississippi Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers (Biloxi)

If you’re planning a trip on the water with Aquiline Charters in Biloxi, Mississippi, one of the most common questions visitors ask is whether they need to buy a fishing license. The rules are actually simple once you know the difference between saltwater and freshwater fishing along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Below is a clear breakdown so you can prepare before your trip and avoid any surprises.

Do You Need a Mississippi Fishing License?

In Mississippi, a fishing license is generally required for anyone 16 years of age or older who plans to fish in public waters.

However, there is an important exception for most charter guests:

If you are fishing aboard a licensed charter boat (like Aquiline Charters), you typically do NOT need to purchase your own saltwater fishing license.

Mississippi charter captains carry a for-hire license that covers passengers while they are actively fishing on the guided trip.

You will need your own license if:

• You plan to fish from shore, a pier, or a jetty before/after your trip
• You rent your own boat
• You fish in freshwater locations such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs

Saltwater vs. Freshwater Rules in Mississippi

Understanding the difference is very important.

Mississippi Saltwater License

Required when fishing in:

• The Gulf of Mexico
• Biloxi Bay
• Back bays and coastal marshes
• Barrier island waters (Ship Island, Horn Island, Cat Island)

Charter guests: Covered under the captain’s for-hire license while on the boat.

Mississippi Freshwater License

Required when fishing in:

• Rivers
• Lakes
• Ponds
• Reservoirs (example: fishing inland away from the coast)

Freshwater fishing is not covered by a charter’s saltwater license.

Who Is Exempt From a License?

Mississippi offers several special exemptions:

You do not need a fishing license if you are:

• Under 16 years old
• A resident 65 years or older (with proof of age)
• A resident fishing on private property you own
• Fishing during Mississippi’s designated Free Fishing Days (usually in early summer)

Keep in mind: these exemptions mainly apply to Mississippi residents. Visiting anglers generally must follow non-resident rules unless fishing aboard a licensed charter.

Mississippi Fishing License Prices

(Prices may change slightly each year, but these are the typical ranges.)

Residents

• Freshwater license: about $10–$15
• Saltwater endorsement: about $10
• Combination license: about $20–$30

Non-Residents (Visitors)

• 3-day freshwater license: about $15–$20
• 7-day freshwater license: about $30–$35
• Annual freshwater license: about $60+
• Saltwater license: usually $30–$40 annually

For many visitors staying a week in Biloxi, the 3-day or 7-day license is the most common choice if they plan to fish from shore.

How to Get a Fishing License in Mississippi

Getting a Mississippi fishing license is quick and only takes a few minutes.

You can purchase one:

1. Online through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP)
2. At Walmart sporting goods counters
3. Local bait and tackle shops around Biloxi
4. Some marinas and coastal convenience stores

You will need:

• A valid ID
• Basic personal information
• A printer or mobile copy of your license

What Aquiline Charters Guests Should Know

When you book a guided trip with Aquiline Charters in Biloxi, your fishing license is handled for you during the charter. The captain’s federal and state permits allow passengers to legally fish for Gulf species such as snapper, king mackerel, and other coastal fish while on the trip.

The only time you need to worry about how to get a fishing license in Mississippi is if you plan extra fishing on your own before or after your charter.

Helpful Travel Tip

Even though the charter covers your license, always bring:

• A photo ID
• Sunscreen
• Appropriate clothing
• A small cooler if you plan to take home your catch

Mississippi regulations can change seasonally (especially red snapper), and your captain will always make sure you’re fishing legally and within current rules.

Having the correct Mississippi fishing license — or knowing when you don’t need one — helps make your Biloxi fishing trip smooth and stress-free. If you ever aren’t sure, your charter captain is the best local resource and will guide you before you leave the dock.