License fees will increase again in 2023 for Massachusetts anglers (and hunters too). Readers may remember that, in 2022, the state increased license fees for the first time in 26 years and that the Commonwealth plans to increase the fees incrementally each year through 2026. These fee increases will be used to help MassWildlife fund inland fish and game projects and to bolster programs and services already provided by the organization.
Most of the fees have increased between $1 and $4; here’s a breakdown of the most relevant licenses for our readers. The resident freshwater license fee will increase from $26 to $29.50 this year (minors aged 15 to 17 will remain free), those aged 65 to 69 will pay $14.75 this year, up from $13 in 2022, anglers 70 and older will get their license free. Non-residents will pay $39.50 in 2023 after paying $36 in 2022, out of state minors (15 to 17) will see an increase from $6.80 to $7.10. Both the Quabbin Reservoir fishing permits ($5) and saltwater licenses ($10) will remain the same.
For more information on these fee increases or breakdowns of the costs of 2023 hunting license, check out the MassWildlife website.
