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How to Catch Fish How to Tie Fishing Knots Fishing Gear and Tackle How to Fish with Lures How to Fish with Live Bait Fishing Safety Fishing Tips When to Fish Types of Fishing Fishing Terms Fishing and Conservation Fishing Resources View All

When to Saltwater Fish Saltwater Bait and Lures Saltwater Fishing Tackle Types of Saltwater Fishing Saltwater Fishing Gear Saltwater Fish Species Saltwater Fishing FAQ View All

Best Freshwater Fishing When to Freshwater Fish Freshwater Bait and Lures Learn About Freshwater Fish Species Best Freshwater Fishing Gear Freshwater Fishing FAQ View All

Fly Fishing Basics Fly Fishing Flies Fly Fishing Gear Fly Casting View All

Ice Fishing Basics Ice Fishing Gear Ice Fishing Techniques View All

Boating Basics How to Boat Boating and Water Safety Choose Your Boat Use our Boat Explorer Tool Get on the Water View All

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Get A Fishing License

Get started fishing today, purchase your fishing license online, check regulations and more.

⚠ Before you head to the water check the latest COVID-19 updates. We encourage you to follow CDC recommendations.

Register a Boat in Ohio

The process of learning how to successfully dock your boat or securely tie your lines can instill feelings of accomplishment and confidence. Rewarding feelings like these and opportunities for personal growth are just two more reasons to own a boat. After buying a boat, you will need to apply for your Ohio boat registration and learn state boating rules.

OHIO BOATING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

Before stepping behind the helm, you need to know the boating laws and regulations that apply in the State. Many states require boaters to complete a safe boating course or exam in order to operate a boat. Once you have your Ohio boat registration, read a boating guide and know the state laws so that your days spent on the water are happy, safe and worry-free.

IT’S NOT A FEE, IT’S A CONTRIBUTION

Boat registration fees are important because they help maintain and conserve Ohio waterways. These fees are used by the state to help sustain our natural resources and promote responsible boating.

OHIO BOAT REGISTRATION INFORMATION

New boats can be registered in person at a Boat Registration Agent or through the mail to a Watercraft office.
The cost of your registration depends on the length of your boat, how it is propelled, and which type of registration you are buying.
Boat registrations are valid for three years and expire on March 1.

OH BOATING LAWS & REGULATIONS

Ohio has its own set of boating rules to protect the waterways and keep everyone who uses them safe.

OH BOATING LAWS & REGULATIONS

RESPONSIBLE BOATING STARTS WITH YOU

Learn how to take care of your crew and your boat, while also taking care of our valuable water resources.

BOATING AND WATER SAFETY

BOATING SAFETY COURSES

ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT

OH BOATING RESOURCES/INFO

Additional resources and information can be found directly on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources site.

ONLINE REGISTRATION RENEWAL