Sporting Licenses
Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Licenses
2008-09 Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Licenses may be purchased beginning August 18, 2008.
Sporting licenses are citizens' authorization to use the state's resources,as well as DEC's principal tool for managing the state's fish and wildlife populations. The Department issues licenses for fishing, hunting, trapping, commercial shellfish harvesting. The Department also issues special licenses and permits, such as licenses for wildlife rehabilitators and outdoor guides.
More about Sporting Licenses:
- Purchasing a Sporting License - You may purchase sporting licenses and permits via DECALS at all license issuing outlets, via the internet, by phone at 1-86-NY-DECALS (1-866-933-2257), or by mail.
- Sporting Licenses Fees - The NYS legislature approved a hunting, fishing and trapping license fee increase package in 2002. These new sporting license fees went into effect October 1, 2002.
- Fishing Licenses - New York State freshwater fishing license information.
- Hunting Licenses - Information about hunting licenses and hunter education.
- Trapping Licenses - Information about trapping licenses.
- Lifetime Sporting Licenses - Information about New York State resident lifetime sporting licenses.
- Sporting Licenses Under the Patriot Plan - NYS Residents who are active service members of either the New York State Organized Militia, U.S. Reserve Forces, or certain members of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for free sporting licenses.
- Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact - Effective March 1, 2006, NYS joined the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact (IWVC). The IWVC is a compact under which member states reciprocate regarding the suspension or revocation of licenses and permits.
- Sporting License Sales Summary - Summary of sales for sporting licenses from 2002/2003 through the current license year.
- Sporting License Privilege Holders Summary - Summary of holders of sporting licenses from 2002/2003 through the current license year.
- Purchase a Habitat/Access Stamp - DEC is requesting proposals for grants that will fund projects aimed at improving fish and wildlife habitat and public access for hunting, fishing, trapping and other fish and wildlife related recreation and study.
