In the state of Florida, a saltwater fishing license is generally required for residents and visitors alike when engaging in fishing activities. However, there are several exemptions that allow certain individuals to fish without a license. The new shoreline saltwater license requirement, which went into effect in 2010, provides additional exemptions for residents who fish from shore or structures affixed to shore.
Exemptions for Residents Age 65 and Older
Florida residents who are 65 years of age or older are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement. To qualify for this exemption, residents must carry a valid Florida driver’s license or provide proof of age and residency.
Exemptions for Children Under 16
Children under the age of 16 are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement, regardless of their state of residence.
Exemptions for Resident Disabled Persons
Florida residents who are totally and permanently disabled are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement. To qualify, they must present authorized disability statements along with proof of residency.
Exemptions for Active Duty Military Personnel
Active duty military personnel who are residents of Florida and are home on leave for a period of 30 days or less are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement. They must have valid orders in their possession when fishing.
Exemptions for Anglers Fishing from Licensed Piers
Anglers who fish from a licensed fishing pier are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement.
Exemptions for Residents Receiving Government Assistance
Florida residents who have been determined eligible for food stamps, temporary cash assistance, or Medicaid by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement when fishing from shore or a structure fixed to land. They must have proof of identification and a benefit issuance or program identification card issued by DCFS or the Agency for Health Care Administration in their possession when fishing.
Exemptions for Residents Fishing with Certain Gear
Florida residents who are fishing with live or natural bait, using poles or lines that are not equipped with a fishing-line-retrieval mechanism, and fishing for noncommercial purposes in their home county are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement. This exemption does not apply to fish management areas within the home county.
Exemptions for Residents Fishing for Mullet in Freshwater
Florida residents who are fishing for mullet in freshwater and hold a valid Florida resident freshwater fishing license are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement.
Exemptions for Residents Fishing from Licensed Vessels
Anglers who fish from a vessel that has a valid recreational saltwater vessel license issued in the name of the operator of the vessel are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement.
Exemptions for Anglers Fishing from For-Hire Vessels
Individuals who saltwater fish from a for-hire vessel (guide, charter, party boat) that has a valid charter license are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement.
Exemptions for Anglers Fishing during Free Saltwater Fishing Days
Anglers who fish during designated free saltwater fishing days are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement.
Exemptions for Anglers with Certain Licenses or Permits
Individuals who hold a valid saltwater products license or FWC charter captain license are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement, with some exceptions.
It’s important to note that while these exemptions apply to the saltwater fishing license requirement, they may not apply to other permits or tags, such as the tarpon tag.
Additionally, anglers who are exempt from the saltwater fishing license requirement may still need to obtain a shoreline saltwater fishing license if they plan to fish from shore or a structure affixed to shore.
For more information on fishing license requirements and exemptions in Florida, anglers can visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website or contact their local tax collector’s office.