Jamie Murdock of Parkville writes: Why isn't a Maryland fishing license valid for one year from the date of purchase? For example, say you turn 16 (when the state requires a license) on Oct. 25 and want to do some late-fall fishing, so you spend $25 to get a license. That license expires at midnight Dec. 31 instead of Oct. 25 of the following year. Essentially this person's license was good for only 66 days before he or she had to shell out another $25.

Outdoors Girl replies: The Dec. 31 expiration date for all annual licenses was set more than 25 years ago by state statute. The General Assembly would have to be convinced that there was a compelling reason to pass a bill authorizing a change from the calendar cycle. Then, the Department of Natural Resources would have to alter its computer database software to accommodate the changes.

States approach the matter differently. In Virginia, all fishing licenses are valid for one year from the date of purchase. Delaware and New Jersey use the calendar year. Pennsylvania begins selling licenses for the next year Dec. 1, which gives the holder a 13-month license.

A cheaper alternative for the 16-year-old angler in question would be to buy a five-day freshwater license ($7.50) or tidal license ($6) to get him or her through a final few outings of the season.