How much is a fishing license in Iowa? Everything you need to know

Before you can teach a man to fish in, you first need to make sure you have an updated fishing license through the state of Iowa.

Whether you are fishing on a boat or a dock, Iowa state law requires you to carry a fishing license. The funds from fishing license fees go toward local conservation, managing healthy fish and wildlife populations and public access to fishing opportunities in the state.

If you are taking a child under the age of 16, they aren't required to have a fishing license in Iowa.

Anyone who is older must go through the proper licensure procedure before hitting the water. Here is what you need to know about fishing licenses in Iowa.

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How do I get a fishing license in Iowa?

You visit one of 700 local retailers across Iowa to purchase a fishing license or you can purchase one online.

To purchase a license online, visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources licensure website, gooutdoorsiowa.com. To find a local retailer, visit the DNR's website. You can search for locations by city, county or ZIP code.

How much is a fishing license in Iowa?

Fees for fishing licenses in Iowa vary depending on whether you are a resident and the length of the license. A annual fishing license for residents is $22 and for nonresidents, they are $48. There are also daily and weekly passes.

The three-year outdoor combo allows you to fish and have a hunting and habitat license. The three-year license is $169 for residents.

More: How do I register my boat? What to know about boat regulations in Iowa

What kind of fish are in Iowa's bodies of water?

Iowa has more than 140 species of fish. The most common species include the freshwater drum, brook stickleback and gizzard shad.

Try fishing without a license for a weekend

If you are unsure about purchasing license, you can try out fishing before you buy one. From June 7 until June 9 you can fish for free. Before you go out, check out the IDNR's interactive map of Iowa lakes and ponds.

“Grab your tackle box, take the family, and get your lines in the water,” said Joe Larscheid, chief of the Iowa DNR’s Fisheries Bureau. “You'll be reeling in fish and making new memories in no time!”

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Here's how to sign up for a fishing license in Iowa