Several States Reduce Non-Resident Fishing License Fees

Last Year New York seemed to get the ball rolling when the DEC announced a reduction of $20 for a nonresident fishing license. Not only was that a sweet move, they also changed the license year renewal and instead made fishing licenses good for 365 days. In other words, no matter what date you buy your fishing license, it's good for 365 days.

Now I just read where Michigan has reduced their nonresident fishing license cost. Their fishing license went from $76 to $68. These states mention increased tourism as their motive for reducing the fees. I'm not so certain that a $20 or less savings is going to alter anyone's fishing vacation plans, but it is a good gesture and if nothing else, it gives these states another reason to highlight their excellent fisheries.

Pennsylvania also announced this past fall that they too are lowering the nonresident fishing license fee. They dropped it a buck. That's right $1. Not even enough to get a dollar coffee when you add in the states six cents tax. I do realize that a dollar is a dollar, I'm not a wealthy man with excess cash to throw around, but there are times when a dollar becomes a joke, as in an insult. $52.70 down to $51.70. What was the Pennsylvania Fish Commission even thinking?