If you’re interested in commercially fishing in Florida, there are several requirements and regulations you need to be aware of. In this article, we’ll cover the essential steps to obtain the necessary licenses, permits, and endorsements to legally sell your catch in the Sunshine State.
Saltwater Products License (SPL)
The most fundamental requirement for commercial fishing in Florida is obtaining a valid Saltwater Products License (SPL). This license is issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and is required for anyone who wants to commercially harvest and sell saltwater products.
To apply for an SPL, you must be at least 16 years old and provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. The license can be issued in the name of an individual or a valid commercial vessel registration number.
SPLs are valid for a license year (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024) and are not prorated. The license is non-transferable and non-refundable if the vessel is sold.
Types of SPLs
There are two main types of SPLs in Florida:
- Individual Saltwater Products License: This license covers the individual listed on the card for commercial fishing on any commercially registered vessel, the shore, or structures affixed to the shore such as piers, docks, and bridges. It also serves as the cardholder’s recreational saltwater license.
- Crew Saltwater Products License: A Crew SPL covers the individual listed on the license and anyone with them for commercial fishing on board any commercially registered vessel. The individual listed must be present on board the vessel for the license to be valid. The license also covers the individual listed for commercial fishing from the shore or structures affixed to the shore. It serves as the cardholder’s recreational saltwater license.
A commercial harvester can hold only one Individual or Crew SPL at a time.
Additional Endorsements and Permits
In addition to the SPL, commercial fishermen in Florida may need endorsements or additional permits depending on the species they intend to harvest and the gear they plan to use.
Some common endorsements and permits include:
- Lampara Net endorsement: Required for directed harvest of ballyhoo with a lampara net.
- Purse Seine endorsement: Required for incidental bycatch of ballyhoo with a purse seine.
- Federal commercial fishing permits: Necessary for certain species managed by the federal government, such as highly migratory species like tunas and billfish.
It’s important to research the specific requirements for the species and gear you plan to use to ensure you have all the necessary endorsements and permits.
Regulations and Restrictions
Once you have obtained the required licenses and permits, you must comply with all the regulations governing the species you are harvesting. These regulations include:
- Allowable fishing gear
- Minimum and maximum size limits for fish
- Total allowable catch limits
- Fishing seasons
- Vessel size restrictions in certain areas
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment.
Selling Your Catch
Once you have obtained the necessary licenses and permits and have complied with all the regulations, you can legally sell your catch in Florida. However, there are a few additional requirements:
- Selling to licensed wholesale dealers: You may only sell your catch to licensed Florida wholesale dealers.
- Reporting requirements: Some species may require daily catch reports or logbooks to be submitted to the FWC.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific reporting requirements for the species you are harvesting to ensure compliance.
Conclusion
Commercial fishing in Florida is a highly regulated industry, but with the proper licenses, permits, and endorsements, you can legally harvest and sell your catch. By understanding the requirements and complying with the regulations, you can operate a successful commercial fishing business while helping to ensure the sustainability of Florida’s marine resources.