South Dakota · Fishing license · Age
What age do you need a fishing license in South Dakota?
From 18 on, with no upper limit.
The ages that matter
Under 18
No license needed
Children can fish without one. Everything else still applies though — limits, sizes and seasons do not change with age.
18 and up
License required
Carry it with you while fishing.
65 and up
Cheaper, not free
South Dakota has no age exemption. Residents get a reduced rate instead: Senior fishing (65 and older) at $17.
How SDGFP words it
SDGFP exempts youth under 18 from the resident fishing licence, and sells visiting youngsters under 18 a free youth licence — so a licence first costs money at 18.
Quoted rather than paraphrased. With rules that carry a fine, the exact wording is the point.
Optional licenses for children
- Youth fishing (under 18) — Free. Free for visiting youngsters.
Other ways to be exempt
Age is one route. SDGFP lists these as well.
