Fishing is a beloved pastime in the Sunshine State, attracting both residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re casting a line in the vast ocean, tranquil bays, or serene lakes and rivers, it’s essential to ensure you have the proper fishing license. In Florida, the requirements for fishing licenses vary depending on your residency status, the type of water you’re fishing in, and the species you’re targeting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of fishing licenses available in Florida and help you determine which one you need to enjoy a successful and legal fishing adventure in 2024.
Saltwater Fishing Licenses
If you plan to fish in the ocean, bays, or any other saltwater body in Florida, you’ll need a saltwater fishing license. This license covers a wide range of saltwater species, including fish, crabs, clams, and marine plants. The cost of a saltwater fishing license varies depending on your residency status and the duration of the license:
- Resident Annual Saltwater Fishing License: $17.00
- Resident Five-Year Saltwater Fishing License: $79.00
- Non-Resident Annual Saltwater Fishing License: $47.00
- Non-Resident Three-Day Saltwater Fishing License: $17.00
- Non-Resident Seven-Day Saltwater Fishing License: $30.00
It’s important to note that a saltwater fishing license is required even if you’re catch-and-release fishing or attempting to take fish. Additionally, a Florida fishing license is required to land saltwater species in Florida, regardless of where they were caught (state or federal waters).
Freshwater Fishing Licenses
If your fishing adventures take you to lakes, rivers, or any other freshwater body in Florida, you’ll need a freshwater fishing license. This license covers fishing for freshwater species such as bass, crappie, and bream. The cost of a freshwater fishing license is similar to that of a saltwater fishing license:
- Resident Annual Freshwater Fishing License: $17.00
- Resident Five-Year Freshwater Fishing License: $79.00
- Non-Resident Three-Day Freshwater Fishing License: $17.00
- Non-Resident Seven-Day Freshwater Fishing License: $30.00
- Non-Resident Annual Freshwater Fishing License: $47.00
It’s crucial to understand that in areas where saltwater and freshwater mix, such as estuaries, the license requirement is determined by the species of fish you’re targeting, not the location. If you plan to fish for both saltwater and freshwater species, you’ll need to purchase both licenses.
Exemptions and Special Licenses
While most residents and visitors to Florida are required to purchase a fishing license, there are certain exemptions and special licenses available:
- Youth under 16 years of age are exempt from needing a fishing license.
- Florida residents age 65 or older with proof of age and residency are exempt from needing a fishing license.
- Florida residents fishing within their county of residence with live or natural bait, using poles or lines not equipped with a fishing line retrieval mechanism, are exempt from needing a saltwater fishing license.
- Florida residents who have been determined eligible for food stamps, temporary cash assistance, or Medicaid by the Department of Children and Families are exempt from needing a saltwater fishing license when fishing from land or a structure fixed to land.
- Active duty U.S. military personnel stationed in Florida, including spouses and dependent children residing in the household, are considered Florida residents for the purpose of purchasing fishing licenses.
- Florida residents can purchase a Lifetime Sportsman’s License, which includes both freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses, as well as hunting licenses and permits.
It’s important to note that even if you’re exempt from needing a fishing license, you may still need to obtain certain permits, such as a snook permit or a spiny lobster permit, depending on the species you plan to target.
Where to Purchase Fishing Licenses
In Florida, fishing licenses can be purchased through various channels:
- Online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com
- Through the Fish Hunt FL mobile app
- At licensed agents or tax collector’s offices
- By phone using 888-FISH-FLORIDA
When purchasing a fishing license, you may be charged an issuance fee of up to $0.50 in addition to the license cost. All license fees are non-refundable.
Responsible Fishing Practices
While having the proper fishing license is essential, it’s equally important to practice responsible fishing to ensure the sustainability of Florida’s fish populations. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Familiarize yourself with the current fishing regulations and size limits for the species you plan to target.
- Practice catch-and-release fishing whenever possible, especially for species that are currently closed to harvest.
- Use appropriate tackle and handling techniques to minimize stress and injury to the fish you release.
- Dispose of fishing line and tackle properly to prevent wildlife entanglement and habitat damage.
- Support conservation efforts by reporting any illegal fishing activities or environmental concerns to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
By following these responsible fishing practices and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, you can enjoy a safe, legal, and sustainable fishing experience in Florida in 2024 and beyond.