As the “Fishing Capital of the World,” Florida is a popular fishing destination that many anglers dream of visiting. The Sunshine State is a fishing paradise, with plenty of spots to cast a line for bass in freshwater lakes or reel in a big game fish offshore. Finding out if a fishing license is required in Florida is a necessary first step before loading up your boat.

Things Needed for a Fishing License

No matter if you are a resident or not, in most cases you will need a fishing license to fish in Florida. However, there are a number of exceptions and exclusions that you should be aware of in Florida, as there are in many other states.

A fishing license for residents

Anyone living in Florida who is 16 or older and uses poles or lines without a reel to fish with live or natural bait is exempt from having to get a fishing license. This encompasses fishing from the beach, a pier, or any other structure attached to the shore. Contrarily, using a fishing reel necessitates a license.

Access to Fishing for Non-Residents

Anyone over the age of 16 who is not a resident of Florida needs a fishing license in order to cast a line into any of the state’s waters, whether they are using artificial or natural bait, a reel, or live bait. There are several options for non-resident fishing licenses, such as yearly and temporary licenses.

Dispensations and Withdrawals

Certain groups of Floridians are excluded from this rule. One of them is:

1. Minors: Anyone under the age of sixteen can fish unlicensed.

2. Floridian seniors: Those 65 and up who may show proof of residency and age are exempt from fishing license requirements.

3. Floridians serving in the military, whether on active duty, in the reserves, or on furlough, and who have official orders to do so are not required to get a fishing license.

Fourth, Floridians with a valid Florida Resident Disabled Person Hunting and Fishing Certificate are exempt from purchasing a fishing license.

No fishing license is necessary for members of certain festivals and groups that have been allowed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to participate in sanctioned events.

Even if you qualify for an exemption, you may still be required to carry identification when fishing.

Rules and Fees for Licenses

There are a number of variables, including resident status and the length of the license, that affect the price of a fishing license in Florida. Here are a few examples of standard license payments as of this writing:

One year’s worth of freshwater and saltwater combo licenses for residents: $32.50
For non-residents, the annual combo license for freshwater and saltwater is $47.00.
Price: $17.00 for a non-resident three-day freshwater/saltwater combo license.
Price: $17.00 per year for residents for freshwater fishing licenses
The annual fee for a non-resident freshwater fishing license is $47.00.
Saltwater Fishing License for Residents: $17.00 Per Year
An annual saltwater fishing license for non-residents is $47.00.

Due to the dynamic nature of these fees, it is recommended that you check the official website of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for the most modern information.

Not only is a fishing license required in Florida, but there are additional laws that fishermen must adhere to. Some fish species have closed seasons, size restrictions, and bag limits. Making sure you are fishing legally requires that you get to know these regulations.

The Best Places to Buy a Fishing License

Getting a fishing license in the Sunshine State is easy. One can acquire a license by going online to the official website of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Additionally, you can buy them in person at sporting goods stores like Bass Pro Shop and some Walmarts around the state, as well as at bait and tackle shops and county tax collector’s offices.

Depending on the Walmart in your area, you might see kiosks like the one below in the sporting goods section.

One more thing: a fishing license is probably required in Florida if you want to go fishing. Although there are various exceptions and exemptions for particular categories, a license is required for most citizens and non-residents above the age of 16. Check that you are fishing legally and, if asked, provide documentation of your eligibility. If you want your fishing trip in the Sunshine State to go off without a hitch, get your fishing license before you cast your line into the state’s many waters.