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Lake Ontario Licensing: What You Need Before You Cast
- Published Date: January 7, 2026
- Fishing
- Lake Ontario
- $125 - $1,500 price range
- Updated Date: January 7, 2026
Summary
Anglers 16+ need a NY freshwater license for Lake Ontario. 1-day, 7-day, and annual options are available online. Kids under 16 fish free! Get licensed before your Dry Creek Charters trip.
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Lake Ontario Licensing: What You Need Before You Cast
Big Coho Salmon on Lake Ontario
Lake Ontario Salmon and Trout Charter
Chinook Salmon Battles Lake Ontario
Meet your Captain Christopher Denmon
- Expert Lake Ontario Fishing Charter Experience
New York Fishing License Information for Travelers and Anglers
Navigating the licensing requirements for a world-class fishery like Lake Ontario doesn’t have to be complicated. At Dry Creek Charters, we want to ensure your focus remains on the king salmon and steelhead, not the paperwork. In New York, a valid freshwater fishing license is required for all anglers aged 16 and older. Whether you are a local resident or visiting from out of state, having your license ready before we leave the dock ensures a smooth start to your adventure. For our specific charters out of Sodus Bay, a standard New York State freshwater license is all you need—no separate saltwater registration is required for Lake Ontario.
Quick Guide to 2026 License Fees and Options
New York offers several flexible options tailored to the length of your stay. Licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, or for the specific duration of a short-term permit.
License Type NY Resident Fee Non-Resident Fee
Annual (Ages 16–69) $25 $50
7-Day License $12 $28
1-Day License $5 $10
Seniors (Ages 70+) $5 $50 (Annual)
- Youth Anglers: Children under the age of 16 do not require a fishing license in New York, making it easy to bring the whole family along.
- Military & Veterans: Reduced-fee licenses ($5) are available for resident veterans with a 40% or greater service-related disability. Active-duty NYS residents stationed outside the state may even qualify for a free license while home on leave.
- Free Fishing Weekends: New York occasionally hosts free fishing days (typically in February and June) where no license is required for anyone, though all other harvest limits still apply.
Where to Purchase Your License
The most convenient way to secure your license is online through the NYSDEC official website, where you can print it immediately or save a digital copy to your phone. If you prefer to buy one in person, many local sporting goods stores, bait shops, and town clerk offices in the Sodus Bay area serve as authorized issuing agents. Regardless of the method you choose, please ensure you have your license (digital or paper) on your person during our trip.
Lake Ontario Photo Gallery
Get a front-row seat to the premier angling experience with Dry Creek Charters in Sodus Bay. Our gallery showcases the raw excitement of Lake Ontario, from the gleaming silver scales of a fresh-run Steelhead to the massive, arm-stretching girth of a trophy Chinook Salmon. You’ll see our fully-equipped Sport-Craft cutting through the morning mist, surrounded by the vibrant blues of the Great Lakes and the golden hues of a world-class Sodus Point sunset. These images capture the true essence of the hunt—the bent rods, the focused teamwork on deck, and the pure joy that comes with every successful net.
Beyond the boat, explore the scenic charm and local landmarks that make this region a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Browse through snapshots of the historic Sodus Point Lighthouse, peaceful lakeside cabins nestled along the shore, and the diverse wildlife that calls the bay home. Whether it’s a quiet moment watching the sun dip below the horizon or the high-energy chaos of a triple-header hookup, our collection offers a vivid preview of your next adventure. Scroll down to explore the gallery and visualize your own legendary day on the water with us!
