Do Florida Seniors Need a Fishing License in 2024?

As a Florida resident age 65 or older, you may be wondering if you need a fishing license to enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities. The good news is that Florida residents who are 65 or older are exempt from needing a recreational hunting, freshwater fishing, or saltwater fishing license, as well as various permits, when they possess proof of age and residency.

Exemptions for Florida Seniors

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Florida residents who are 65 years of age or older are exempt from needing the following licenses and permits when they have proof of age and residency:

Recreational hunting license
Freshwater fishing license
Saltwater fishing license
Florida waterfowl permit
Migratory bird permit
Deer permit
Turkey permit
Snook permit
Spiny lobster permit
Archery season permit
Crossbow season permit
Muzzleloading season permit
Management area permit

To qualify for this exemption, you must be a Florida resident and have proof of age and residency, such as a valid Florida driver’s license or ID card. Alternatively, you can obtain a free Resident 65 Hunt/Fish Certificate online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or at your county tax collector’s office.

Benefits of the Senior Exemption

The senior fishing license exemption provides several benefits for Florida residents age 65 and older:

Cost savings: Fishing licenses and permits can be expensive, especially for those on a fixed income. The exemption allows seniors to enjoy fishing without the added cost.
Convenience: Seniors no longer need to purchase licenses or permits, which saves time and effort. They can simply carry their proof of age and residency when fishing.
Encouragement of outdoor recreation: By removing the license requirement, the exemption encourages seniors to stay active and enjoy the outdoors through fishing.

It’s important to note that while seniors are exempt from needing a license or permit, they must still follow all other fishing regulations, such as size and bag limits, closed seasons, and gear restrictions.

Exceptions to the Senior Exemption

There are a few exceptions to the senior fishing license exemption:

Federal duck stamp: Seniors are still required to have a federal duck stamp when hunting waterfowl.
Fishing tournaments: If participating in a fishing tournament, seniors may need to purchase a license or permit, depending on the tournament rules.
Fishing from a boat: If fishing from a boat, seniors may need to have a vessel fishing license, depending on the boat’s registration and the number of people on board.

Overall, the senior fishing license exemption makes it easier and more affordable for Florida residents age 65 and older to enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities. By carrying proof of age and residency, seniors can fish without the added cost and hassle of purchasing licenses and permits.