Information on requirements and license fees for commercial fishing and shellfishing, fishing guides and charter operations and fish buying, as well as other fish and wildlife-related activities.
Some additional licenses and inspections may be required by other agencies, including commercial use permits for operating on or launching watercraft from U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, or other federally-managed lands and waters.
For additional information about license requirements in Washington, please contact the WDFW Licensing Division at 360-902-2464 or via email at commercialsales@dfw.wa.gov
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New Commercial Licensing System Project
New online licensing system coming in summer of 2025 for commercial license holders customers to efficiently and securely submit their applications and payments online.
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Open entry commercial licenses
These licenses are not limited by moratorium.
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Limited entry fisheries commercial licenses
These licenses are limited by moratorium. An existing license may be transferred to another owner, but no new licenses may be issued.
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Miscellaneous commercial licenses
View and download additional commercial license applications and forms.
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Commercial Whale Watching Licensing Program
Learn about the license for commercial viewing of Southern Resident killer whales and find more information for whale watch operators.
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Commercial and specialized license fees
See the resident and non-resident costs for a variety of commercial and miscellaneous licenses.
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Commercial permits for use of WDFW lands
Many activities on WDFW lands require a permit and fee if they are for commercial purposes.
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Shellfish import and transfer permits
Information on how to apply for a permit to import out of state shellfish or transfer shellfish within Washington State.
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Fish stocking and transport permits
Permits are required to transport fish into and through Washington state, and to stock approved private ponds and water bodies with fish.
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Columbia River License Reduction
WDFW is working with license holders to develop a framework for a license reduction program for Columbia River gillnet licenses.
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WA-Tix electronic fish ticket reporting
WA-Tix is an application that allows users to complete mandatory electronic fish ticket reporting requirements.