Florida Fishing Licenses, Laws, and Regulations
Florida is known as the «fishing capital of the world» and is the ideal destination for fresh and salt water lovers. Anglers are sure to get one catch at a time in these waters! The state offers tourists and experienced anglers alike a variety of fishing licenses to choose from, from short-term to annual.
You can apply for a Florida fishing license online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission website. You can also choose to buy one in person from authorized resellers or from local sports stores near you. The links in this section will help you learn more about license fees and requirements for freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Responsible fishing and proper etiquette must be followed at all times. Read and become familiar with the basic laws in the area to avoid problems during your trip. These rules and regulations are strictly implemented to protect and preserve marine life in the region.
All proceeds from the fishing licenses are donated to the various programs aimed at preserving habitats, spreading marine life, educating locals and tourists about the area’s conservation efforts, and the like. These programs are all aimed at reducing overfishing and protecting the ecosystem.
Types of fishing permits and permits
Florida is a great place for both salt and fresh water fishing. In some cases you will need a fishing license to enjoy this outdoor activity, but in others you may not. Different licenses are available. National residents aged 65 and over, residents and non-residents aged under 16 do not require a fishing license.
Freshwater fishing licenses:
A freshwater license is required to fish in public waters.
- Resident License: Annual and five-year licenses can be purchased
- Non-Resident License: Annual, three-, and seven-day options are available
- Combined license: When purchasing your standard recreational license, you have the option of purchasing a single combined license for fresh and saltwater fishing at a reduced price.
- Sportsman’s License: this applies to hunting, archery, muzzleloading and more. For those interested in other wildlife hunts, muzzleloading, and archery, you can purchase a license that covers it all
- Youth License: Although not required, young fishermen between the ages of 8 and 15 can obtain a recreational fishing license.
- Lifetime License: It will remain in effect even if you move out of Florida.
Fishing licenses in salt water:
Saltwater fish, crabs, clams and other edible organisms can be harvested from the sea with a valid license.
- Resident License: Residents can choose between a one-year or five-year option
- Non-Resident License: There are a variety of non-resident licenses; Annual, three-, and seven-day non-resident licenses available.
- Shoreline Only: If you only want to fish from the shore, you will need a free coastal license.
- Combined license: This license is for everyone who wants to have a salt water license in combination with hunting or fishing.
- Sportsman’s License: This license covers most fishing, hunting, and archery-related activities.
- Youth license: This type of license is optional but can be purchased from 8 to 15 years of age.
Documents that young people need for a fishing license
If you are a youngster with an optional fishing license, it is valid until you are 17 years old. However, unless they are among the exempted categories which will be discussed later, residents and non-residents will need a fishing license when they are 16 years old. The Florida Fishing License is issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Residents can get it by showing a Florida driver’s license. Another way to meet the hometown requirement is to provide student ID and proof of a parent’s state of residence.
Adults and proof of residence
Other documents that can be used to obtain a Florida resident fishing license are an ID card that contains both a Florida address and Florida residence as certified by the Department of Highway Safety. Members of the United States Armed Forces who produce a document stating that they are stationed in Florida can also obtain residence permits. This allows your spouse and children to fish in the state.
If you are a Floridian who does not have a state driver’s license, you can substitute one of the following to prove you are a resident:
• Homestead exemption in Florida
• Florida voter registration card
• Declaration of residence from your local district office
Visitors can fish without a license
No Florida Saltwater Fishing License is required if you are a non-resident who:
• Fish on a free fishing day
• is under 16 years of age
• Get on board a rented boat whose operator has a fishing license
• Fish from a ship whose operator has a fishing license
• Has a license for saltwater products or an FWC charter captain’s license
• Recreational fishing from a pier and holding a pier fishing license
Duration of the licenses
Florida residents can choose a lifetime license. Even if you move out of the state, this license is valid as long as you live. It is available for the following age groups:
• Four years and younger
• 5 to 12 years old
• Thirteen years and older
Angler training is advisable
For your own safety and to become a better angler, sign up for a course offered by a bait and fishing shop or sporting goods retailer. You can learn more about fishing, boat safety, and regulations. In addition to participating in courses, a simple online search provides valuable information about fishing in the state.
The FFWCC also offers courses, including one to help you identify Florida fish. The organization also sponsors a free Kids’ Fishing Clinic in locations across the state for children ages 5 and up.
Arrival and accommodation
Mosquito Lagoon, Everglades National Park, The Forgotten Coast, The Florida Keys, and Lake Okeechobee offer some of the best fishing in Florida. You can pay the night in all of these areas. You can reach your fishing spot by charter boat or seaplane. More economical options include renting a car or taking a flight near your desired fishing spot. If you are unfamiliar with fishing in the area, hire a licensed fishing guide who will know exactly where to take you to maximize your chances of catching the fish. This knowledgeable person can also advise you on which bait and equipment to use.
Organizations to join
If you want to stay up to date on fishing news in the state, you should join the International Game Fish Association or the Coastal Conservation Association of Florida or some other similar group. The IGFA is a non-profit organization and the Florida CCA is an advocacy group for sport fishing
Q: How much does a Florida fishing license cost?
Individuals fishing in the salt water, rather than from a ship on the coast, must purchase the reserve license for $ 10. For those who wish to fish in inland waters from a boat, they must purchase the one-time saltwater license for $ 17 per 3 days or $ 30 per 7 days or $ 47 for 1 year.
Q: Can you fish in Florida without a license?
Florida residents and visitors must be licensed to hunt, freshwater or saltwater fish if they comply with state law. These licenses are required to catch fish in any way. This includes using the mouth as a device to draw the current liquid out of the water, to catch it openly without playing or chasing it, or trying to catch species that are
Q: How much does a fishing license at Walmart in Florida cost?
Phone: Yes, you can purchase a perfectly legal fishing license from any US-based Walmart. In fact, Walmart is one of the largest fishing license sellers in the country. Expect to pay between $ 11 and $ 40, depending on your state, age, and license period.
Q: Where can I buy a Florida fishing license?
Fishing licenses are available online, in person from a licensing agent or tax office in Florida, or by calling toll-free 888-FISH-FLORIDA (888-347-4356). Make sure you double-check what is eligible for Florida residency and if you are eligible for any exemptions.
Q: Who is exempt from the Florida fishing license?
You must be over 65 years of age and have proof of residence, e.g. B. a driver’s license or Florida ID card.
What is the penalty for fishing without a license in Florida?
Anyone caught fishing in Florida without a license will be charged with Level 1 Violation. The section that covers this offense is 379,354. The violation of a fishing license is classified as a non-criminal offense. The penalties consist of a fine, the cost of the license, and an additional fifty dollars.
Q: Do you need a snook stamp in Florida?
You must have a valid snook permit to hold a snook during the recreational harvest season. An annual snook permit costs $ 10 per year or $ 50 for five years if you live in Florida.
There is also an additional $ 5 processing fee for phone, internet and county tax collectors.