In the Sunshine State, fishing is a beloved pastime enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re casting a line from the shore, a pier, or a boat, understanding the fishing license requirements is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the specifics of obtaining a fishing license in Florida, focusing on the unique case of shore fishing.
Saltwater Fishing Licenses in Florida
Florida’s saltwater fishing licenses cover both fishing from shore and fishing from a vessel. The cost of these licenses varies depending on your residency status and the duration of the license.
For Florida residents, the options include:
Annual Saltwater License: $17.00
Youth Saltwater Fishing License (valid until 17th birthday): $17.00
Five-Year Saltwater License: $79.00
Annual Saltwater Shoreline License: $0.00 (covers fishing only from shorelines and attached structures accessible by foot)
Non-residents have the following choices:
Three-day Saltwater License: $17.00
Seven-day License: $30.00
Annual License: $47.00
Shoreline Fishing Licenses
Florida residents who only saltwater fish from the land or a structure attached to land may obtain a no-cost resident recreational saltwater shoreline fishing license. This license does NOT cover anyone fishing from a boat or from an island that they arrived at by boat.
To qualify for the shoreline fishing license, you must be a Florida resident. Proof of residency can be provided through a valid Florida driver’s license or identification card with both a Florida address and a Florida residency verified by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (HSMV). A Florida voter registration card, declaration of domicile, or homestead exemption may also be used as proof of Florida residency.
It’s important to note that the shoreline fishing license is only valid for fishing from shore or a structure attached to shore. If you wade into the water to fish, you are still considered to be fishing from shore as long as you can stand on the bottom and do not access or leave the area by boat. However, if you arrive at the fishing location by boat, even if you fish from shore, you must have a regular saltwater fishing license.
Exemptions from Fishing License Requirements
While most anglers need a fishing license, there are certain exemptions to the rule. In Florida, the following individuals are exempt from needing a saltwater fishing license:
Youth under 16 years of age
Florida residents age 65 or older with proof of age and residency
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
Florida Resident Persons with Disabilities Hunting and Fishing License holders
Florida residents accepted as clients for developmental disabilities services by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities
Florida residents who have been determined eligible for the food stamp, temporary cash assistance, or Medicaid program by the Department of Children and Family Services
U.S. Armed Forces members who are Florida residents not stationed in the state but home on leave with orders for 30 days or less (does not include family members)
Commercial saltwater products license holders
Those recreationally fishing from a pier that has a pier saltwater fishing license
Fishing from a for-hire vessel (including guide, charter, party boat) that has a valid charter boat or charter captain license
Fishing from a boat that has a recreational vessel fishing license
Florida residents fishing for mullet in freshwater with a valid Florida freshwater fishing license
It’s crucial to note that even if you catch and release, you still need a license unless you fall under one of the exemption categories.
Obtaining a Fishing License in Florida
Purchasing a fishing license in Florida is a straightforward process. You can obtain your license online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or through the Fish Hunt FL app. Alternatively, you can purchase a license in person at a licensed agent, tax collector’s office, or by phone using 888-FISH-FLORIDA.
When purchasing your license, you may be charged an issuance fee of fifty cents, in addition to the license fee. All license fees are non-refundable.
Remember, having a valid fishing license is not only a legal requirement but also supports the conservation efforts of Florida’s fish and wildlife resources. By purchasing a license, you contribute to the sustainability of the state’s aquatic habitats and fish populations.
In conclusion, fishing from shore in Florida requires a valid fishing license, unless you fall under one of the exemption categories. Whether you’re a resident or a non-resident, understanding the license requirements and obtaining the appropriate license is crucial for an enjoyable and legal fishing experience in the Sunshine State.