So, you’ve got your pontoon boat prepped, the rods are loaded, and you’re ready to chase a few bites. But before you ease off the dock and find your favorite spot, there’s one thing you don’t want to forget: a valid fishing license.
It’s easy to overlook—until you’re explaining yourself to a wildlife officer with a clipboard. The good news? You can handle it online in just a few minutes.
Why You Need a Fishing License
A fishing license is a legal must in most public waters across the U.S. It’s not just a technicality—it’s part of how we all help keep fishing strong.
That small fee? It funds fish stocking programs, habitat restoration, clean water efforts, and future-proofing the outdoor experience we all enjoy. So when you get a license, you’re doing more than following the rules—you’re giving back to the waters that give us so much.
The Fastest Way to Get Your License? Online.
Gone are the days of driving to a bait shop or figuring out county office hours. The easiest way to get your fishing license is through TakeMeFishing.org. It’s simple, secure, and trusted by anglers nationwide.
Here’s what you can do there:
- Pick your state and see up-to-date rules and season info
- Buy or renew your fishing license in minutes
- Register your Harris pontoon, if your state requires it
- Check local limits, seasons, and species info—all in one place
Each State Is Different—Don’t Assume
Fishing laws vary depending on where you are and what kind of water you’re fishing in. What flies in Michigan might not work in Texas. Saltwater, freshwater, catch-and-release, resident discounts—it all plays a role.
Use the interactive map on TakeMeFishing.org to select your state and get the details specific to your trip. Don’t guess. Get it straight from the source.
Taking Your Harris Pontoon Out? Don’t Skip the Boat Reg.
If you’re heading out on your pontoon for a fishing trip, make sure your boat registration is up to date, too. A lot of states require current registration for any motorized vessel—even if it’s just a leisurely cruise to your fishing hole.
Luckily, many states let you handle both your fishing license and boat registration in the same transaction.
Once You’re Licensed, the Water’s Yours
With your fishing license handled and your pontoon boat ready to go, all that’s left is the fun part. Load your gear, pack the snacks, and pull away from the dock. Then it’s just you, your crew, and open water—exactly what a Harris pontoon was built for.
Want a tip? Check the local fishing reports before you go. Some states post them weekly, right on the licensing site. You’ll know what’s biting, where to find them, and what kind of bait is working right now.
One Last Thing—Keep a Copy Handy
Some states let you store your license on your phone. Others require a printed copy. Double-check what’s needed in your area and have it on hand - don’t assume your cell signal will be strong enough to pull it up mid-lake.
So, get licensed, get registered, and make the most of your time on the water.
