Fishing is a popular pastime in the Sunshine State, with its vast network of rivers, lakes, and coastlines teeming with a diverse array of fish species. However, before you can cast your line and reel in the big one, you need to make sure you have a valid Florida fishing license. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of fishing licenses available in Florida, their associated costs, and the various options for obtaining them in 2024.
Freshwater Fishing Licenses
If you plan to fish in Florida’s freshwater bodies, such as rivers, lakes, and ponds, you’ll need a freshwater fishing license. The cost of a freshwater fishing license varies depending on your residency status and the duration of the license.
For Florida residents, the cost of an annual freshwater fishing license is $17.00. If you prefer a longer-term option, you can purchase a five-year freshwater fishing license for $79.00.
Non-residents have several options as well. A three-day non-resident freshwater fishing license costs $17.00, while a seven-day license is $30.00. For those planning an extended stay, an annual non-resident freshwater fishing license is available for $47.00.
Saltwater Fishing Licenses
If your fishing adventures take you to Florida’s saltwater environments, such as the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, or any of the state’s numerous bays and estuaries, you’ll need a saltwater fishing license.
Florida residents can purchase an annual saltwater fishing license for $17.00. For those who prefer a longer commitment, a five-year saltwater fishing license is available for $79.00.
Non-residents have similar options for saltwater fishing licenses. A three-day non-resident saltwater fishing license costs $17.00, while a seven-day license is $30.00. For an entire year of saltwater fishing, a non-resident annual saltwater fishing license is available for $47.00.
It’s important to note that a Florida fishing license is required to land saltwater species in Florida, regardless of where they are caught (state or federal waters).
Combination Licenses
For those who enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing, Florida offers combination licenses that include both privileges at a discounted price.
Florida residents can purchase an annual combination license that includes both freshwater and saltwater fishing for $32.50. If you also enjoy hunting, you can add a hunting license to your combination for $48.00.
Gold Sportsman’s License
For the ultimate outdoor enthusiast, Florida offers the Gold Sportsman’s License. This license includes freshwater and saltwater fishing, as well as hunting privileges, along with various permits for wildlife management areas, archery, muzzleloading guns, crossbows, deer, turkey, and waterfowl.
The annual Gold Sportsman’s License costs $100.00 for Florida residents. For those who prefer a longer commitment, a five-year Gold Sportsman’s License is available for $494.00.
Active duty and retired military members who are Florida residents can purchase an annual Military Gold Sportsman’s License for $20.00.
Youth Fishing Licenses
Florida offers special fishing licenses for youth anglers. Residents aged 8 to 15 can purchase a youth freshwater fishing license for $17.00 or a youth saltwater fishing license for $17.00. These licenses are valid until the youth’s 17th birthday.
For youth who have completed hunter education requirements, a youth Gold Sportsman’s License is available for $100.00.
Fishing Permits
In addition to fishing licenses, anglers may need to purchase specific permits depending on the species they plan to target or the method of fishing they intend to use.
For example, anglers 16 and older fishing for certain reef fish from a private vessel in Florida must obtain a State Reef Fish Angler Designation, which is available at no cost.
As of July 1, 2019, anglers 16 and older must also obtain a no-cost annual Shore-based Shark Fishing Permit when taking or attempting to take sharks from shore, including jetties, bridges, and piers.
Anglers targeting snook or lobster must purchase additional permits, even if they already have a saltwater fishing license. The annual snook permit costs $10.00, while the annual spiny lobster permit is $5.00.
Tarpon anglers must purchase an annual tarpon tag for $51.50, available only at tax collector’s offices.
Purchasing a Florida Fishing License
There are several ways to purchase a Florida fishing license in 2024:
- Online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com
- Through the Fish Hunt FL app
- In person at a licensed agent or tax collector’s office
- By phone using 888-FISH-FLORIDA
It’s important to note that all sales are final, and license fees are non-refundable. In addition to the cost of the license, the license vendor may also charge an issuance fee of fifty cents.
Before heading out to fish, be sure to familiarize yourself with Florida’s fishing laws and regulations, which are in place to protect the state’s fish populations.
Fishing is a cherished pastime in Florida, and with the right license and permits, you can enjoy the thrill of reeling in your catch while contributing to the conservation of the state’s aquatic resources. Whether you prefer freshwater or saltwater fishing, or a combination of both, Florida offers a variety of licensing options to suit your needs and budget in 2024.