For those that love hunting and fishing, Mississippi offers a lifetime sportsman license. This license allows residents and non-residents to hunt and fish in all public areas in the state of Mississippi.
The best part of the lifetime license is just that — it’s good for life!
There are three types of Lifetime Licenses available for purchase.
- Lifetime license – 13 years old and older.
- Lifetime license – birth to 12 years old.
- Non-Resident Mississippi Native Lifetime.
They allow holders to hunt and/or fish during a legal season, taking any game or fish except waterfowl, without buying an additional license or permit. State and federal waterfowl stamps must still be purchased to hunt waterfowl. So to shoot ducks, you’ll need the federal duck stamp.
Lifetime licenses also enable fishermen to take specific saltwater fish authorized under the recreational permit. So, in essence, you can go from catching largemouth bass to reeling in that red snapper on the same license.
It’s also worth noting that when hunting or fishing with a Lifetime License, holders must carry a second form of identification, such as a driver’s license or a photo ID.
Eligibility Requirements for the License.
To be eligible for a lifetime license, all applicants must:
- Be a Mississippi resident or have been born in Mississippi.
- Have proof of residency or birth certificate, if applicable.
That means you don’t necessarily have to be a resident, but you have to be a Mississippi native. So those out-of-state hunters and fishers who are originally from Mississippi can still purchase a lifetime license.
For the license, you’ll have to meet the residency requirements of living in the state for 18 consecutive months. If you’re a native, you’ll have to provide a certified copy of your original birth certificate showing you were born in Mississippi.
Cost and Renewal Process for the Lifetime License.
Of course, you don’t need to renew the license because it’s for your lifetime. However, the costs upfront are relatively substantial.
A lifetime sportsman license for those 13 years old and older costs $1,000 with no processing fees. For the kiddos under 13 years old, the fee is a one-time $500. Of course, they’ll have to get an adult license once they’re 13.
Then there’s the non-resident Mississippi native lifetime license which is costs $1,500. Again, there are no processing fees with these.
Sure, this may seem like a lot of money up front, but it’s an investment in your future. With the lifetime license, you can hunt and fish for years to come without needing a new license.
Why would you want the lifetime sportsman license?
There are numerous benefits to getting a lifetime sportsman license.
- Save money in the long run. When you purchase the lifetime license you are essentially buying a hunting or fishing license for the rest of your life. In other words, this eliminates the need to renew any additional licenses yearly and saves money in the long run.
- Avoid fee increases. Annual hunting and fishing licenses are subject to increases in cost each year, which could add up over the years. The lifetime license allows you to avoid those increases.
- Support the Wildlife Endowment Fund. All Lifetime License fees are directed to the Wildlife Endowment Fund. The interest generated by this fund is used to finance wildlife management and enforcement programs, research projects, and educational activities. By investing in a Lifetime License today, you will not only gain immediate returns in Mississippi wildlife but also ensure that benefits are passed down to your children and grandchildren.
- Hunt and fish forever! Naturally, the best benefit is that you can hunt and fish legally in Mississippi for the rest of your life. That’s an amazing way to ensure that you get to enjoy one of your greatest passions for years to come. Whether you hunt deer, turkey, coyote, or other game hunting; or maybe you want to catch some Cobia or other saltwater fish, the lifetime license lets you do it all.
It’s easy to see that this beats out an annual license or the resident hunting license. And if you’re a Mississippi native, it’s an even better deal. So if you’re looking to legally hunt and fish in the Magnolia State for years to come, then consider buying the lifetime sportsman license. It will be the best investment you make all year.
Get Yours at the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
When you’re ready to purchase your lifetime license, go to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website. You can find all the necessary information there. They have the form you need to submit to apply for your license.
If you’re having trouble finding what you need online, then you can always visit one of their offices in person or call them at 601-432-2055. They will be more than happy to assist you with any questions you have or help you purchase the license.
FAQs the Lifetime Hunting License in Mississippi
You’ve got questions, we got answers. We’re always getting questions about the Mississippi lifetime hunting and fishing license. So we put together a comprehensive list of questions and answers for you.
How much is a lifetime hunting license in Mississippi?
They range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the license type.
Can I purchase a lifetime hunting license online?
No, but you can download the form on their website. Once you complete the application you can send it, the payment, and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks hunter education requirements to the department.
Do I need a valid ID to purchase a lifetime hunting license?
Yes, a valid ID is required to purchase a lifetime hunting license. You’ll also need to ensure you have your ID on you whenever you’re hunting or fishing. This can be a state or federally issued ID such as a drivers license or military ID.
Is there any age restriction on purchasing a Mississippi lifetime hunting license?
No, anyone can purchase a lifetime hunting license regardless of age. However, those under 13 years old are only eligible for a Junior Lifetime Hunting License, which is significantly cheaper than the other licenses.
Are there any additional fees associated with the lifetime hunting license?
No, there are no additional fees associated with a lifetime hunting license in Mississippi. The only fee is the purchase of the license itself as there are zero processing fees. It’s a pretty simple one-time payment.
What is the Wildlife Endowment Fund?
The Wildlife Endowment Fund invests money generated by the sale of Lifetime Hunting Licenses into projects and research to benefit wildlife in Mississippi. The interest earned by this fund helps finance wildlife management programs, research projects, and educational activities.
What can I do if I lose my lifetime hunting license?
You can apply for a replacement at the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website or contact them directly at 601-432-2055.
What does a lifetime hunting license cover Mississippi?
The license covers all species of game animals, fish, and migratory birds in Mississippi. Additionally, you can hunt on public and private lands with a license.
Are there any limitations to a lifetime hunting license?
Yes, some restrictions may apply, such as seasons, bag limits, and other regulations related to wildlife management. You should review the Hunting Regulations issued by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks before hunting.
At what age are you exempt from a hunting license in Mississippi?
Residents under 16 years old are exempt from the requirement to buy a hunting or fishing license. Those meeting this eligibility criterion may opt to purchase a voluntary Youth Exempt License by submitting their Social Security Number and showing a copy of their parent/legal guardian’s driver’s license as proof of residency.