Offshore Fishing Licenses in Florida: Tuna & Mahi-Mahi Regulations

Florida’s abundant coastal waters offer some of the world’s finest offshore fishing opportunities, with prized catches like tuna and mahi-mahi drawing anglers from across the globe. However, navigating the complex web of state and federal regulations can be challenging, especially when targeting highly migratory species in offshore waters. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about licensing requirements and regulations for offshore tuna and mahi-mahi fishing in Florida through 2025.

Understanding Offshore Fishing Jurisdiction in Florida

Before diving into specific license requirements, it’s essential to understand the jurisdictional boundaries that affect fishing regulations in Florida waters.

State vs. Federal Waters

Florida’s state waters extend to 9 nautical miles in the Gulf of Mexico and 3 nautical miles in the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond these boundaries lies federal jurisdiction, where additional permits may be required. This distinction is crucial because different rules apply depending on where you’re fishing and what species you’re targeting.

When fishing for highly migratory species (HMS) like tuna, you’ll need to comply with both state and federal regulations regardless of where you’re fishing. However, the specifics of these regulations can vary significantly between jurisdictions.

Required Licenses for Offshore Fishing in Florida

Successfully and legally targeting offshore species in Florida waters requires understanding the layered licensing system that combines both state and federal permits.

Florida State Fishing Licenses

All recreational anglers 16 years or older must possess a valid Florida saltwater fishing license unless exempt. Non-resident anglers have several license options available:

3-day license: $17.00
7-day license: $30.00
Annual license: $47.00

These licenses can be purchased online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website, at local tackle shops, or at many sporting goods stores throughout the state.

Federal HMS Angling Permit

When targeting highly migratory species like tuna in Florida waters, a federal HMS Angling Permit is required in addition to your Florida saltwater fishing license. This federal permit applies to:

Bluefin tuna
Bigeye tuna
Albacore tuna
Yellowfin tuna
Skipjack tuna

The HMS Angling Permit is issued to the fishing vessel rather than individual anglers. In federal waters, this permit covers everyone fishing aboard that vessel. However, in Florida state waters, the permit requirements apply to individual anglers.

Federal HMS Angling Permits can be obtained online at https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/ or by calling 888-872-8862. These permits are valid from the date of issue through December 31 of the current year and must be renewed annually.

Tuna Fishing Regulations in Florida

Tuna fishing in Florida is subject to specific regulations based on species, with different rules for bag limits, size restrictions, and reporting requirements.

Bluefin Tuna Regulations

Bluefin tuna are among the most heavily regulated fish species due to conservation concerns:

Reporting Requirement: All bluefin tuna caught in state or federal waters must be reported to NOAA within 24 hours at 888-872-8862 or https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/
Recreational Daily Limit: As of January 1, 2024, the default limit is 1 school, large school, or small medium bluefin tuna (27 to <73″) per day
Trophy Size Limit: Angling and Charter/Headboat vessels may land 1 bluefin tuna measuring 73″ or greater per vessel per year in all trophy areas; however, ALL TROPHY AREAS ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED as of the latest update
Measurement Method: Curved fork length must be measured by following the curve of the fish’s body from the tip of the jaw to the fork of the tail
Additional Restriction: Bluefin tuna cannot be retained if a hammerhead shark is on board or has been offloaded from the vessel

The southern trophy area fishery for bluefin tuna closed on February 9, 2024, and remained closed through the 2024 season. Anglers should check for updated information for the 2025 season at https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/news.

Yellowfin Tuna Regulations

Yellowfin tuna have less restrictive regulations compared to bluefin but still maintain important conservation measures:

Daily Retention Limit: 3 yellowfin tuna per person per day or trip
Size Restriction: Minimum size of 27″ curved fork length
Permit Requirement: Federal HMS Angling Permit required in both state and federal waters

Other Tuna Species Regulations

Regulations for other tuna species vary:

Bigeye Tuna: Minimum size of 27″ curved fork length with no recreational bag limits
Skipjack and Albacore Tuna: No recreational limits or minimum size restrictions
Blackfin Tuna: Not classified as an HMS species; subject to Florida’s “unregulated species” default recreational bag limit of two fish or 100 pounds per day, whichever is more

Mahi-Mahi (Dolphinfish) Regulations in Florida

Mahi-mahi, also known as dolphinfish, represents one of Florida’s most popular offshore game fish species. Recent regulatory changes have created some inconsistencies between state and federal rules.

Florida State Mahi-Mahi Regulations

In 2023, Florida implemented more conservative regulations for mahi-mahi conservation:

Daily Bag Limit: Reduced from 10 fish per person to 5 fish per person
Vessel Limit: Reduced from 60 mahi-mahi to 30 mahi-mahi per vessel per day
Minimum Size: 20-inch minimum fork length size limit remains in place

These new state regulations were implemented by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) in response to concerns raised by the Save the Mahi Mahi Campaign about the sustainability of mahi-mahi populations.

Federal Mahi-Mahi Regulations

Federal regulations for mahi-mahi in South Atlantic waters differ from Florida’s state rules:

Daily Bag Limit: 10 fish per person per day
Vessel Limit: 54 fish per vessel per day

This inconsistency between state and federal regulations creates potential confusion for anglers. When fishing in Florida state waters (within 9 miles in the Gulf of Mexico or 3 miles in the Atlantic), the more restrictive Florida regulations apply. When fishing in federal waters beyond state boundaries, federal regulations are in effect.

The South Atlantic Fishery Management Council has been reviewing these inconsistencies, with potential federal regulatory changes expected. However, implementation of any federal changes would not occur before early 2025.

Enforcement and Penalties for Violations

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) actively enforces fishing regulations throughout state waters, while NOAA enforces federal regulations in cooperation with the Coast Guard.

FWC Violation Categories and Penalties

Florida’s fishing violations are categorized by severity levels:

Level One Violations: Most first-time recreational fishing infractions, typically resulting in fines
Level Two, Three, and Four Violations: Progressively more serious infractions with escalating penalties

Common fishing violation fines include:

Over bag limit: $500 per person
Undersized fish: $100 per fish
Use of prohibited gear: $500 per person
Fishing during a closed season: $500 per person
Fishing in a prohibited area: $500 per person
Harvesting protected or endangered species: $2,500 or more

Higher-level violations can result in criminal charges, ranging from misdemeanors (30-90 days in jail) to felonies (up to five years in prison and $5,000 fines) for serious offenses like tampering with protected species.

Compliance Requirements

All anglers must:

Carry valid licenses and permits while fishing
Adhere to bag and size limits
Report catches as required (especially bluefin tuna)
Use only permitted fishing methods
Fish only during open seasons

Ignorance of regulations is not considered a valid defense in FWC violation cases. Simply paying a fine is an admission of guilt that will remain on your permanent public record and could enhance penalties for future offenses.

Conservation and Management Measures

The regulations governing tuna and mahi-mahi fishing reflect broader conservation goals aimed at protecting these highly valued species.

Stock Management Approaches

Research has shown that implementing Total Allowable Catches (TACs) has the strongest positive influence on rebuilding overfished tuna and billfish stocks. Other effective control measures include:

Minimum size regulations
Seasonal closures
Gear restrictions
Reporting requirements

These management approaches aim to ensure sustainable fishing practices while allowing recreational anglers to enjoy Florida’s rich offshore fishing opportunities.

Reporting Requirements

Reporting of catches plays a crucial role in fisheries management:

Bluefin Tuna: Must be reported within 24 hours of catching
HMS Tournament Registration: Tournament operators must register all tournaments conducted from a port in an Atlantic coastal state

These reporting systems help fisheries managers track population health and adjust regulations as needed to maintain sustainable fisheries.

Tips for Compliance and Best Practices

Successfully navigating Florida’s offshore fishing regulations requires preparation and awareness. Following these best practices will help ensure a legal and enjoyable fishing experience.

Before Your Trip

Verify Current Regulations: Check for the latest updates at https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/news and https://myfwc.com/fishing/
Secure Proper Licensing: Obtain all necessary state and federal permits before your trip
Register for HMS Reporting: Set up accounts for HMS catch reporting if targeting bluefin tuna
Check Seasonal Closures: Verify that your target species season is open

During Your Fishing Trip

Accurate Measurement: Use proper curved fork length measurement techniques for tuna species
Careful Species Identification: Ensure proper identification of different tuna species, as regulations vary significantly between them
Proper Handling: Use dehooking devices to improve the survival rate of released fish
Documentation: Keep photos of catches with measurement references to demonstrate compliance if questioned

After Your Fishing Trip

Prompt Reporting: Report bluefin tuna catches within 24 hours as required
Proper Fish Handling: Keep catches in good condition by properly icing or refrigerating
Maintain Records: Keep documentation of your fishing activities, including locations, catches, and releases

Future Regulatory Considerations

The management of offshore fisheries remains dynamic, with several potential regulatory changes on the horizon through 2025.

Potential Regulatory Changes

As of March 2025, several regulatory developments are being considered:

Mahi-Mahi Federal Alignment: Efforts are underway to align federal mahi-mahi regulations with Florida’s more conservative approach, potentially implementing a 5-fish bag limit and 30-fish vessel limit in federal waters by early 2025
Tuna Conservation Measures: Ongoing evaluations of tuna stocks may lead to adjustments in bag limits and size restrictions, particularly for yellowfin and bigeye tuna as pressure on these fisheries increases
Electronic Reporting Expansion: NOAA is exploring expanded electronic reporting requirements for recreational HMS species, potentially requiring more comprehensive catch reporting beyond just bluefin tuna

Anglers should regularly check official sources for the most current information as regulations evolve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Offshore Fishing

Do I need both a Florida fishing license and a federal HMS permit to fish for tuna?

Yes. When targeting highly migratory species like tuna in Florida waters, you need both a valid Florida saltwater fishing license and a federal HMS Angling Permit. The HMS permit is attached to your vessel in federal waters but applies to individual anglers in state waters.

What’s the difference between regulations for different tuna species?

Bluefin tuna have the strictest regulations, including mandatory reporting within 24 hours, a limit of one fish per day/trip, and specific size restrictions. Yellowfin tuna have a limit of 3 per person per day and a 27″ minimum size. Bigeye tuna have no recreational bag limit but must meet the 27″ minimum size. Blackfin, skipjack, and albacore have fewer restrictions.

Why are Florida’s mahi-mahi regulations different from federal regulations?

Florida implemented more conservative mahi-mahi regulations (5 fish per person, 30 per vessel) in response to conservation concerns raised by the Save the Mahi Mahi Campaign. Federal regulations remain at 10 fish per person with a 54 fish vessel limit. This discrepancy creates a complex regulatory environment that may be harmonized in future updates.

How do I report a bluefin tuna catch?

Bluefin tuna catches must be reported to NOAA within 24 hours by phone at 888-872-8862 or online at https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/. You’ll need your permit information and details about your catch, including size and location.

What are the penalties for exceeding bag limits for tuna or mahi-mahi?

Exceeding bag limits typically results in a fine of $500 per person. However, repeat offenses or significant violations can lead to higher fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges in severe cases.

Do charter boat passengers need their own fishing licenses and permits?

When fishing from a properly licensed charter boat, individual passengers typically do not need their own Florida fishing licenses. However, the charter must have appropriate permits, including an HMS Charter/Headboat permit if targeting tunas and other highly migratory species.

What’s the best way to stay updated on changing fishing regulations?

Regularly check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website (https://myfwc.com/fishing/) and the NOAA HMS Permit Shop news section (https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/news) for the most current regulations. You can also sign up for regulatory update emails from both agencies.

Can I fish for tuna year-round in Florida?

While there’s no closed season for most tuna species, bluefin tuna fishing may be subject to closures when quotas are reached. Always check current regulations before targeting bluefin tuna specifically.

What conservation efforts are in place to protect tuna and mahi-mahi populations?

Management strategies include minimum size limits, bag limits, seasonal closures, and gear restrictions. Research has shown that Total Allowable Catches (TACs) have been particularly effective in rebuilding depleted tuna stocks.

What documentation should I carry while offshore fishing in Florida?

Always carry your Florida saltwater fishing license, federal HMS Angling Permit (if targeting tunas), vessel registration, photo identification, and any species-specific permits. Having digital and physical copies is recommended.

Conclusion

Successfully navigating the complex regulations governing offshore fishing for tuna and mahi-mahi in Florida requires understanding both state and federal requirements. While these rules may seem cumbersome, they serve an essential purpose in protecting these valuable fish stocks for future generations of anglers.

By obtaining the proper licenses, staying informed about current regulations, adhering to bag and size limits, and following reporting requirements, offshore anglers can enjoy Florida’s world-class fishing opportunities while contributing to conservation efforts. Remember that regulations change frequently, so always verify the most current information before heading offshore.

For the most up-to-date information, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website at https://myfwc.com/fishing/ and the NOAA HMS Permit Shop at https://hmspermits.noaa.gov/.