Florida’s diverse waterways offer excellent fishing opportunities, but before you cast your line, it’s crucial to understand the licensing requirements. This comprehensive guide will explore the various types of fishing licenses available in Florida for 2024 and their associated costs.
Resident Freshwater Fishing Licenses
Florida residents have several options for freshwater fishing licenses:
Annual Freshwater Fishing License: $17.00
Five-Year Freshwater Fishing License: $79.00
Youth Freshwater Fishing License (ages 8-15, valid until 17th birthday): $17.00
For those who enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing, combination licenses are available:
Annual Freshwater and Saltwater Fishing Combination: $32.50
Annual Freshwater Fishing and Hunting Combination: $32.50
Annual Freshwater Fishing, Saltwater Fishing, and Hunting Combination: $48.00
Resident Saltwater Fishing Licenses
Saltwater anglers in Florida have the following license options:
Annual Saltwater Fishing License: $17.00
Five-Year Saltwater Fishing License: $79.00
Annual Saltwater Shoreline License: No cost (for fishing from shore or structures attached to shore)
Youth Saltwater Fishing License (ages 8-15, valid until 17th birthday): $17.00
Non-Resident Fishing Licenses
Out-of-state visitors planning to fish in Florida have several license options:
Freshwater:
Annual Non-Resident Freshwater Fishing License: $47.00
3-Day Non-Resident Freshwater Fishing License: $17.00
7-Day Non-Resident Freshwater Fishing License: $30.00
Saltwater:
Annual Non-Resident Saltwater Fishing License: $47.00
3-Day Non-Resident Saltwater Fishing License: $17.00
7-Day Non-Resident Saltwater Fishing License: $30.00
Sportsman’s Licenses and Combination Packages
Florida offers several comprehensive license packages for avid outdoors enthusiasts:
Annual Resident Gold Sportsman’s License: $100.00 (Includes freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, hunting, and various permits)
Five-Year Resident Gold Sportsman’s License: $494.00
Annual Resident Military Gold Sportsman’s License: $20.00 (For active duty or retired military members)
Youth Gold Sportsman’s License: $100.00 (Valid until 17th birthday)
Additional Permits and Designations
Certain species and fishing activities require additional permits:
Annual Snook Permit: $10.00
Five-Year Snook Permit (Florida residents only): $50.00
Annual Spiny Lobster Permit: $5.00
Five-Year Spiny Lobster Permit (Florida residents only): $25.00
Tarpon Tag: $51.50 (Required to land tarpon, available only at tax collector offices)
State Reef Fish Angler Designation: No cost (Required for fishing certain reef fish species from a private vessel)
Annual Shore-Based Shark Fishing Permit: No cost (Required for shore-based shark fishing)
Lifetime Licenses for Florida Residents
Florida residents can opt for lifetime licenses, which offer long-term value:
Lifetime Saltwater Fishing License:
Ages 0-4: $126.50
Ages 5-12: $226.50
Ages 13 and older: $301.50
Lifetime Gold Sportsman’s License:
Ages 0-4: $401.50
Ages 5-12: $701.50
Ages 13 and older: $1,001.50
License Exemptions
Some individuals are exempt from fishing license requirements in Florida:
Residents aged 65 or older with proof of age and residency
Children under 16 years old
Florida residents who are totally and permanently disabled
Florida residents who are members of the U.S. Armed Forces home on leave for 30 days or less
Persons fishing from a licensed pier
Persons fishing in their county of residence with cane poles or other simple tackle
How to Purchase a Florida Fishing License
Florida fishing licenses can be obtained through several convenient methods:
Online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com
Through the Fish Hunt FL mobile app
At county tax collectors’ offices
At licensed agents (such as sporting goods stores)
By phone: 888-FISH-FLORIDA (347-4356)
When purchasing a license, be prepared to provide your name, address, date of birth, and a valid form of identification. Non-residents may need to provide their Social Security number.
Important Considerations
Before purchasing your Florida fishing license, keep these points in mind:
All sales are final, and license fees are non-refundable
Prices listed include an issuance fee allowed per Florida Statute
License vendors may charge an additional issuance fee of 50 cents
Always check current regulations for the area you plan to fish, as some species may have closed seasons or special restrictions
Some areas may require both freshwater and saltwater licenses if the waters commingle
Licenses are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase, unless otherwise specified
By understanding the various license options and requirements, you can ensure that you’re fishing legally and responsibly in Florida’s beautiful waters. Remember that your license fees contribute to the conservation and management of Florida’s aquatic resources, helping to preserve these ecosystems for future generations of anglers.