News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 21, 2003

NEW OHIO FISHING AND HUNTING LICENSES NOW ON SALE

COLUMBUS, OH - The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife reminds anglers that a 2003-04 fishing license is required by March 1. Hunters and trappers should also note that the 2003-04 hunting licenses are also now on sale. The 2002-03 hunting and fishing licenses expire on February 28. Hunters, trappers and anglers can obtain new licenses at more than 1,300 license outlets statewide.

Ohio anglers can obtain their 2003-2004 Ohio Fishing Regulations brochure at all license outlets. This brochure provides information on license requirements and exemptions, regulations in effect for the new season, a county-by-county listing of wildlife officers and a listing of aquatic nuisance species. It also contains information on how to obtain Ohio’s fish consumption advisory.

Anglers are advised to consult this brochure before heading out to fish for any site-specific regulation changes.

Ohio's annual resident fishing license costs $15. A one-day fishing license costs $7 and may later be exchanged for credit toward purchase of an annual fishing license. The annual non-resident fishing license costs $24, while a three-day non-resident fishing license costs $15. All anglers age 16 and older must possess a fishing license. Those anglers who are age 66 and older may obtain a free license directly from a license sales vendor.

"Free Fishing Days" will be observed on May 3 and 4 during which Ohio residents are encouraged to experience Ohio fishing without purchasing a license.

The resident annual hunting license costs $15. A discounted resident youth hunting license for persons age 15 and under, costs $8. Non-resident annual hunting licenses cost $91 and a 3-day non-resident small game hunting license costs $25. All first-time hunters must pass a hunter education course before purchasing a hunting license.

Additional information about hunting, trapping, and fishing in Ohio may be obtained by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE, or on the Internet at: ohiodnr.com