Hawai’i is joining other ocean states by requiring a license for recreational ocean fishing for out-of-state residents.

Revenues from license sales will be used to support fishing in the state. An anticipated $1 million each year will be used to pay for fish aggregation devices, artificial reefs, stock enhancement and other fish restoration projects conducted by the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

In June 2021, the state legislature passed a law requiring nonresidents to obtain recreational marine fishing licenses. The state also adopted rules to implement the law, which took effect May 2.

Licenses cost $20 for one day and $40 for seven days. Annual licenses are available for $70. Nonresident youth under age 15 can fish without licenses, as can active-duty military personnel and their families. Licenses are available at fishing.hawaii.gov.