Do You Need a Fishing License in Florida?
If you’re planning to cast a line in the Sunshine State, understanding Florida’s fishing license requirements is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about fishing licenses in Florida, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your angling adventure in 2025.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Florida?
Most residents and visitors aged 16 and older need a valid fishing license to fish in Florida’s waters. However, there are some important exceptions:
- Florida residents aged 65 and older can obtain a free Resident Senior Citizen Hunting and Fishing Certificate.
- Children under 16 don’t need a license for recreational fishing.
- Florida residents with certain disabilities may qualify for a free license.
It’s important to note that a license is required even if you’re just catch-and-release fishing. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), “A license is required to attempt to take fish. If you cast a line or catch and release, you need a fishing license.”
Types of Florida Fishing Licenses
Florida offers several types of fishing licenses to accommodate different needs:
Freshwater Fishing Licenses
Required for fishing in lakes, rivers, and ponds throughout Florida. As of 2025, the costs are:
- Resident Annual: $17.00
- Resident Five-Year: $79.00
- Non-Resident Annual: $47.00
- Non-Resident 3-Day: $17.00
- Non-Resident 7-Day: $30.00
Saltwater Fishing Licenses
Necessary for fishing in coastal waters, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The 2025 costs are:
- Resident Annual: $17.00
- Resident Five-Year: $79.00
- Non-Resident Annual: $47.00
- Non-Resident 3-Day: $17.00
- Non-Resident 7-Day: $30.00
Combination Licenses
These allow you to fish in both freshwater and saltwater environments. For Florida residents, combination options include:
- Annual Saltwater Fishing|Freshwater Fishing Combination: $32.50
- Annual Saltwater Fishing|Freshwater Fishing|Hunting Combination: $48.00
Short-Term Options
For visitors or those who fish infrequently, Florida offers 3-day and 7-day licenses for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, as listed in the pricing above.
Special Permits and Regulations
Some species require additional permits or have specific regulations:
- Snook: A $10 annual permit is required to keep one snook per day during open season.
- Tarpon: Catch-and-release only unless you purchase a $51.50 annual tag for pursuing an IGFA record.
- Spiny Lobster: A $5 annual permit is needed.
- State Reef Fish Angler Designation: Required for anglers 16 and older fishing for certain reef fish from a private vessel in Florida. This designation is free but mandatory.
- Shore-based Shark Fishing Permit: As of July 1, 2019, required for anglers 16 and older in addition to a saltwater fishing license when taking or attempting to take sharks from shore, including jetties, bridges, and piers. This permit is free but requires completion of an educational course.
Always check the latest regulations on the FWC website as they may change.
Where to Buy a Florida Fishing License
You have several convenient options for purchasing your Florida fishing license:
- Online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website
- At local sporting goods stores or bait shops
- By phone at 1-888-486-8356
- Through the Fish|Hunt FL mobile app
License Exemptions
There are situations where you might not need a license:
- Fishing from a licensed pier
- Fishing on a charter boat with a valid charter license
- Fishing during Florida’s license-free fishing days
- Florida residents fishing in saltwater from land or a structure fixed to land (with a free shoreline fishing license)
For a complete list of exemptions, visit the FWC’s exemption page.
Conservation and Economic Impact
Your fishing license purchase plays a crucial role in conservation efforts:
- Florida sold 1.5 million recreational saltwater licenses in the 2019/2020 fiscal year.
- License sales generated $37.8 million in revenue for conservation programs.
- Saltwater recreational fishing has a $9.2 billion economic impact in Florida.
These funds are used for habitat restoration, fisheries management, and other conservation efforts that ensure sustainable fishing for future generations.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a resident or visitor, getting the right fishing license in Florida is straightforward and essential. By obtaining the proper license, you’re not only complying with state law but also contributing to the preservation of Florida’s diverse aquatic ecosystems.
Remember to always carry your license when fishing and stay updated on current regulations. Happy fishing in the Sunshine State!
For the most up-to-date information on fishing licenses and regulations in Florida, always refer to the official Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website.
