Free Vermont state recognized tribal citizen hunting and fishing licenses will become available in January, 2021, according to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.

The department issued a reminder that state recognized tribal citizens must purchase 2020 licenses if they want to go hunting and fishing before January and that they may obtain a free permanent license when they become available in January.

Beginning January 1, 2021, the department may issue to a certified citizen of a Native American Indian tribe recognized by the State, upon application and receipt of a current and valid tribal identification card, a free permanent fishing license or, if the applicant qualifies for a hunting license, a free permanent combination hunting and fishing license.  Additional licenses, permits and add-on tags are not included.

Applicants must provide the following:

• Abenaki Hunting and Fishing License Tribal Certification form certified

   by the appropriate tribal official

• Copy of current and valid tribal identification card

• Vermont Sporting License Application

• Proof of a previous hunting license from any state or province of Canada, or hunter safety card   if requesting a hunting and fishing combination license.

If the applicant has held a hunting license previously but is unable to locate a copy, a license affidavit form may be included with the license application.

Vermont Fish and Wildlife will provide the information and forms on its website www.vtfishandwildlife.com in mid-December. 

For Immediate Release:  November 9, 2020

Media Contact:  Catherine Gjessing (802) 595-3331  Catherine.Gjessing@vermont.gov