This isn't a goofy question but the answer is likely a state by state thing. Here in Illinois the pond owner who lives on the property does not need a license but anyone else who fishes needs a license and need to abide by the regulations. If a pond owner does not live on the property then even he needs a license. I seldom fish anywhere but my own property but I always buys a license anyway. Hopefully some of the fee I pay helps support some part of the fishery program, conservation program, etc.

"I love living. I have some problems with my life, but living is the best thing they've come up with so far." � Neil Simon,