Posted Friday, 23 May 2014 12:21

Utah’s fishing license changes

Changes include elimination of two-pole fishing permit

Young anglers and hunters are among those who will benefit from upcoming license changes in Utah.

Young anglers and hunters are among those who will benefit from upcoming license changes.

Photo by Scott Root

And, if you like to fish with two fishing poles, you’ll also benefit — no matter how old you are.

Kenny Johnson, Administrative Services Section chief for the Division of Wildlife Resources, says the license changes will do two things: Provide anglers and hunters with new options and provide the DWR with the funding it needs to continue providing good fishing and hunting opportunities in Utah.

The changes are the first license fee changes in Utah since 2008.

“We took a fresh look at our licenses and found some new options for our sportsmen,” Johnson says. “We also found ways to save the families of young anglers and hunters some money.”

The changes go into effect July 1.

All of the changes are available in a downloadable PDF. The following are some highlights:

• Currently, when anglers and hunters between 14 and 17 years of age buy a license, they have to pay the same amount of money an adult pays. Starting July 1, those between 14 and 17 years of age can buy a license for a reduced price.
• In addition to your license, if you want to fish with two fishing poles, you’re currently required to buy a separate two-pole permit.
• Starting July 1, anyone with a fishing license can fish with two fishing poles. A separate two-pole permit will not be required.
• Starting July 1, you can buy a multi-year license that’s valid for two, three, four or five years. In addition to the convenience of not having to buy a license every year, buying a multi-year license will also save you some money.

If you have questions, call the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office or the DWR’s Salt Lake City office at 801-538-4700.