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Getting Your Fishing License in Sault Ste. Marie
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Michigan requires an "All-Species" license for ages 17+. Residents pay $26 annually, while 24-hour passes are $10 for everyone. Buy online or via the DNR app before your Sault Ste. Marie tr
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Getting Your Fishing License in Sault Ste. Marie
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Getting Your Fishing License in Sault Ste. Marie
Getting Your Fishing License in Sault Ste. Marie
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Michigan Fishing Licenses: A Guide for St. Marys River Anglers
Navigating license requirements is a vital part of preparing for your time on the water. Whether you are joining Gone Phishing for a day of walleye fishing or exploring the St. Marys River system on your own, staying compliant with Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulations ensures that our local fisheries remain vibrant for years to come. Below is everything you need to know about securing your credentials for the Sault Ste. Marie region.
Who Needs a License?
In the state of Michigan, any adult age 17 or older is required to purchase a fishing license to fish in all state waters, including the St. Marys River from Paradise to DeTour.
- Freshwater vs. Saltwater: Since Michigan is entirely landlocked, all regulations apply to freshwater. There are no separate saltwater requirements, though specific Great Lakes and connecting water rules (like those for the St. Marys River) may apply to catch limits.
- The "All-Species" Rule: Michigan simplified its system to an "All-Species" license. This means your single license covers everything from yellow perch to Atlantic salmon and lake sturgeon.
2026 License Pricing & Options
Michigan offers several tiers of licensing depending on your residency status and how long you plan to fish.
License Type Resident Fee Non-Resident Fee
Annual All-Species $26.00 $76.00
24-Hour All-Species $10.00 $10.00
72-Hour All-Species $30.00 $30.00
Senior (65+ / Res. Only) $11.00 N/A
Note: All fishing licenses are valid from March 1 of the current year through March 31 of the following year.
Special Exemptions and Youth Rules
Michigan is a very accessible state for young anglers and those with specific needs:
- Youth (Under 17): Children under the age of 17 can fish for free without a license. However, they must still observe all fishing size and bag limit regulations.
- Legally Blind: Michigan residents who are legally blind may purchase a senior license.
- Veterans: Residents who are 100% disabled veterans or active-duty military may be eligible for free or discounted licenses.
Where to Get Your License
You have several convenient options to secure your license before your trip with Gone Phishing:
- Online: The fastest way is via the Michigan DNR eLicense website. You can save a digital copy to your smartphone.
- Mobile App: Download the "Michigan DNR Hunt Fish" app to purchase and store your license directly on your phone.
- Local Retailers: Several bait shops and sporting goods stores in Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding Upper Peninsula areas act as licensed agents.
A Note on the St. Marys River Boundary
Because the St. Marys River serves as the international border between Michigan and Ontario, it is critical to stay within U.S. waters if you only possess a Michigan license. Captain Harold is an expert at navigating these boundaries, ensuring your Sault Ste. Marie fishing charter stays fully compliant with all jurisdictional laws.
Sault Ste Marie Fishing and License Highlights
While you prepare for your time on the water, our gallery offers a visual preview of the vibrant ecosystem waiting for you in the Eastern Upper Peninsula. You will see the crisp, clear currents of the St. Marys River and the specialized setup of the Gone Phishing 21’ Ranger boat as it navigates the historic waters of Sault Ste. Marie. From the gleaming silver scales of a freshly caught Atlantic salmon to the deep bronze of a trophy smallmouth bass, these images capture the rewarding results of a properly licensed and well-planned outing. You might even spot the towering silhouette of a Great Lakes freighter passing through the Soo Locks or the peaceful, glass-like surface of the river during a sunrise departure.
Beyond the catch, these photos highlight the rugged beauty of the northern Michigan landscape that makes every trip memorable. Take a look at the local wildlife often spotted from the deck, the cozy nearby cabins tucked into the treeline, and the spectacular orange and purple hues that settle over the horizon during our evening sessions. We want you to feel the cool river mist and the excitement of the first strike before you even step foot in the boat. Gone Phishing is dedicated to providing a professional experience that is as scenic as it is productive.
Scroll through the images below to see the sights and species that make this region a premier destination for anglers!
