Illinois fishing licenses for the 2026 season are now on sale, offering some of the most affordable rates in the country. Anglers can purchase their 2026 fishing licenses and stamps online or at department-authorized vendors across the state.
A standard, non-discounted resident fishing license costs just $15. Licenses for the 2025 season remain valid through March 31st. All anglers aged 16 and older are required to have a valid Illinois fishing license, with exemptions offered for active-duty military personnel and individuals with disabilities.
Purchasing a fishing license does more than just grant access to Illinois’ lakes and rivers. License sales directly support conservation, outdoor education, and economic activity statewide, helping to maintain and improve fishing opportunities for current and future generations.
Funding for IDNR’s Division of Fisheries comes primarily from fishing license and stamp sales. These revenues support vital programs such as research, fisheries management, hatchery operations, invasive species prevention, outdoor education, and other important initiatives.
Additional funding is provided by the Sport Fish Restoration Program, established in 1950 and administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The program allocates funds to states based on land area and fishing license sales, utilizing federal excise taxes on fishing equipment, motorboat fuel, and related outdoor accessories.
For more information about fishing in Illinois, including regulations and a full list of license and stamp fees, visit ifishillinois.org or the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website. The current Illinois fishing regulations guide is also available online.