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Virginia Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers
- Published Date: December 16, 2025
- Fishing
- $400 - $1,000 price range
Summary
Get your Virginia fishing license for Chesapeake Bay trips with Botangles Fly Fishing. Learn rules, pricing, exemptions, and where to buy for a legal, hassle-free angling experience.
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Virginia Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers
Skilled Anglers caught big redfish
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Meet your Captain Denny Seabright
- Chesapeake Bay Fly Fishing Charters
Virginia Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers
If you’re planning to fish in the Chesapeake Bay with Botangles Fly Fishing, it’s important to understand Virginia’s fishing license requirements. Most anglers 16 years and older need a valid Virginia fishing license, whether you’re fishing in freshwater or saltwater. Licenses are required for both residents and non-residents, with options varying depending on the duration of your stay.
Who Needs a License
All anglers aged 16 and older must have a Virginia fishing license. Special exemptions apply for children under 16, seniors 65 and older, and certain disabled veterans. Always carry your license while fishing, as enforcement officers may request proof.
Where to Get a Fishing License
You can purchase a Virginia fishing license online through the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website, at local tackle shops, or at authorized vendors near Chesapeake Bay. Options include one-day, multi-day, annual, and lifetime licenses.
Pricing for Residents vs. Non-Residents
- Resident Licenses: One-day licenses start around $10, annual licenses approximately $20–$30.
- Non-Resident Licenses: One-day licenses start around $15–$20, annual licenses $45–$60. Prices vary by saltwater or freshwater fishing.
Saltwater vs. Freshwater Rules
Virginia requires a separate saltwater license for fishing in tidal waters, like the Chesapeake Bay. Freshwater licenses cover lakes, rivers, and ponds. Make sure your license matches the waterbody where you plan to fish.
Tips for Travelers
If you’re joining a guided trip with Botangles Fly Fishing, check if the license is included—many charters provide it for guests. For self-guided anglers, purchasing your license ahead of time ensures a hassle-free experience.
How to Get a Fishing License in Virginia
Visit the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources to quickly buy your Virginia fishing license online. Print or save a digital copy to keep with you while fishing.
With the proper license in hand, you’re ready to enjoy a safe, legal, and rewarding fishing experience in the Chesapeake Bay. Book your guided trip with Botangles Fly Fishing today and make the most of Virginia’s prime angling waters!
Virginia Fishing License Insights | Botangles Fly Fishing
Explore our Virginia Fishing License gallery for Botangles Fly Fishing and see what makes Chesapeake Bay angling seamless and enjoyable. View photos of license kiosks, local waterways, anglers in action, and the equipment used for inshore trips targeting redfish, sea trout, and snook. Get a real sense of the Bay’s scenic beauty, from tidal creeks to peaceful flats, while learning about the licensing process firsthand.
See how travelers and anglers prepare for a legal and stress-free fishing experience with Botangles Fly Fishing. Scroll through the gallery to visualize your next Chesapeake Bay adventure, and gain tips on obtaining your Virginia fishing license, making your trip smooth and unforgettable.
