Indiana License for Kentucky Residents — Ohio River Rules
March 19, 2026
Kentucky anglers have a unique advantage when it comes to fishing Indiana — the Ohio River reciprocal agreement means you can fish one of the best river fisheries in the country without buying a second license. But there’s a lot more to Indiana fishing than the Ohio River. Here’s the full picture.
The Ohio River — No Extra License Needed
The Indiana-Kentucky reciprocal fishing agreement is straightforward:
Your Kentucky fishing license is valid on the entire main-stem Ohio River — bank to bank, Indiana side included.
What’s Covered
- The main channel of the Ohio River
- Fishing from either bank
- Fishing from a boat anywhere on the river
What’s NOT Covered
- Tributaries and embayments on the Indiana side — once you leave the main channel, you need an Indiana license
- Any inland Indiana water — lakes, reservoirs, streams, rivers other than the Ohio
Regulations on the River
- Bank fishing: Follow the regulations of the state you’re standing in
- Boat fishing: Choose either Indiana or Kentucky regulations, but follow one set consistently
- See our border water rules guide for the complete breakdown
Best Ohio River Spots (Indiana Side)
| Location | Species | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Falls of the Ohio (Clarksville) | Smallmouth bass, drum, catfish | Walk-in, wading |
| Markland Dam tailwaters (Lawrenceburg) | Sauger, hybrid striped bass | Boat ramp, bank |
| Madison waterfront | Channel catfish, drum | Bank fishing downtown |
| Cannelton Dam tailwaters | Sauger, catfish | Boat ramp |
| Mount Vernon | Catfish, drum | Ramp at Wabash River mouth |
When You Need an Indiana License
For anything beyond the Ohio River main channel, you need an Indiana non-resident license:
| License Type | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Annual | $60 | April 1 – March 31 |
| 7-Day | $35 | 7 consecutive days |
| 1-Day | $15 | Single calendar day (includes trout stamp) |
Buy online at GoOutdoorsIN — valid immediately. Full details in our non-resident license guide.
Best Indiana Destinations Beyond the Ohio River
Patoka Lake (2 hours from Louisville)
Patoka Lake in southern Indiana is a hidden gem — 8,800 acres of largemouth bass, striped bass, and crappie with far less boat traffic than Lake Cumberland or Dale Hollow.
Monroe Lake (2.5 hours from Louisville)
Monroe Lake is Indiana’s largest lake at 10,750 acres. Outstanding largemouth bass fishery with tournament-caliber fish. The surrounding Brown County hills make it a scenic trip.
Brookville Lake (1.5 hours from Cincinnati/NKY)
Brookville Lake is the top pick for northern Kentucky anglers. Excellent smallmouth bass and walleye — species that are harder to find in the Ohio River.
Lake Michigan (5 hours from Louisville)
A completely different experience. Chinook salmon averaging 15–25 lbs, Lake Michigan steelhead, and lake trout. Worth a long weekend. Charter captains provide everything — just bring your license and trout stamp.
Key Regulation Differences from Kentucky
| Rule | Kentucky | Indiana |
|---|---|---|
| Bass daily limit | 6 | 5 |
| Bass minimum size | 12” (varies) | 12” (14” on some waters) |
| Crappie daily limit | 15 | 25 |
| Catfish daily limit | Varies by species | No limit (13” minimum) |
| Number of poles | 3 | 3 (same) |
Review the full Indiana fishing regulations before heading inland.
Planning Your Trip
- Ohio River only? Your Kentucky license covers it — just review the border water rules
- Going inland? Buy an Indiana license at GoOutdoorsIN
- Book a guide — browse Indiana fishing guides
- Find bait near your spot — 547 bait and tackle shops
- Check regulations — full guide
Related Guides
- Indiana Border Water Fishing Rules
- Non-Resident Fishing License guide
- Fishing Indiana as a Visitor
- Best Catfish Fishing in Indiana
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish the Ohio River with just my Kentucky license?
Yes. The Indiana-Kentucky reciprocal agreement allows you to fish the entire main-stem Ohio River with either state's license. However, if you want to fish Indiana's inland lakes, reservoirs, or tributaries, you need a separate Indiana non-resident license.
Do I need an Indiana license to fish tributaries off the Ohio River?
Yes. The reciprocal agreement covers only the main channel of the Ohio River. Once you enter a tributary, embayment, or creek mouth on the Indiana side, you need an Indiana non-resident fishing license.
What's the best Indiana fishing destination for Kentucky anglers?
For bass, Patoka Lake and Monroe Lake are worth the drive north. For something different, Lake Michigan salmon and steelhead are a unique experience you can't get in Kentucky. Brookville Lake in southeast Indiana is the closest quality fishery for northern Kentucky anglers.