The Sunshine State offers a variety of fishing opportunities, from saltwater to freshwater, and having the correct license and permits ensures you can fish legally and responsibly. In this article, we will discuss Florida fishing license costs and touch on some related regulations you should be aware of.
Florida fishing licenses are available for both residents and non-residents, with options ranging from short-term, such as 3-day and 7-day licenses, to annual licenses that cover a full year of fishing. In Florida, you can purchase license packages, such as the Saltwater Angler package for $37.00, or the Gone Fishing package, which includes both freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses for $54.00. For those looking to add hunting to their outdoor activities, the Florida Sportsman package, priced at $133.50, covers saltwater and freshwater fishing, as well as hunting.
It’s essential to note that the prices mentioned above may be subject to additional fees, such as a 50¢ issuance fee charged by some license vendors. Moreover, certain exemptions exist, such as not requiring a fishing license when fishing on a private pond with less than 20 acres in surface cover. By understanding your specific fishing plans and requirements, you can make an informed decision when purchasing your Florida fishing license, ensuring compliance with state regulations while making the most of your fishing trip.
Types of Florida Fishing Licenses
In this section, I will provide details on the various types of fishing licenses available in Florida. I will cover Resident Licenses, Non-Resident Licenses, Combination Licenses, and Special Licenses.
Resident Licenses
Florida offers fishing licenses specifically for residents of the state. These include:
- Freshwater Fishing License
- Saltwater Fishing License
- Gold Sportsman License (combination of hunting and fishing)
The cost of these licenses varies, and there are age requirements for obtaining resident licenses between ages 16 and 64.
Non-Resident Licenses
Florida also provides fishing licenses for non-residents wishing to fish in the state. These licenses are:
- Non-Resident Freshwater Fishing License
- Non-Resident Saltwater Fishing License
The cost of non-resident licenses typically ranges between $11 and $40, depending on various factors such as the duration of the license and age, among others.
Combination Licenses
For those interested in pursuing multiple outdoor activities in Florida, combination licenses are available. They include:
- Saltwater Angler License – this covers saltwater fishing across the state.
- Gone Fishing License – offering both freshwater and saltwater fishing access.
- Florida Sportsman License – an all-inclusive license for hunting and fishing in Florida.
It is important to note that combination licenses may have slightly different pricing than individual licenses.
Special Licenses
Some special licenses are available in Florida for lifetime use and specific circumstances. For example:
- Lifetime Gold Sportsman’s License
- Lifetime Hunting License
- Lifetime Saltwater Fishing License
- Lifetime Freshwater Fishing License
- No-cost Saltwater Shoreline Fishing License – specifically for fishing from land or fixed structures
These special licenses cater to various preferences and needs among anglers and are designed to simplify the licensing process on a long-term basis.
Florida Fishing License Cost Breakdown
When considering a Florida fishing license, it’s important to understand the various costs involved for different types of licenses. In this section, I’ll discuss the costs for resident licenses, non-resident licenses, and special licenses.
Resident License Costs
As a Florida resident, I have access to several fishing license options at a lower cost compared to non-residents. The following are some typical resident license costs:
- Freshwater or Saltwater Annual License: $17.00
- Combo Freshwater/Saltwater Annual License: $32.50
- Five-Year Freshwater or Saltwater License: $79.00
- Five-Year Combo Freshwater/Saltwater License: $151.50
Note that some additional fees, such as issuance fees, might apply.
Non-Resident License Costs
For non-residents visiting Florida and interested in fishing, there are short-term and annual options available, which I found to be generally more expensive than resident licenses:
- Three-Day Freshwater or Saltwater License: $17.00
- Seven-Day Freshwater or Saltwater License: $30.00
- Annual Freshwater or Saltwater License: $47.00
Please keep in mind that these prices are subject to change and additional fees may apply.
Special License Costs
There are also special licenses available to accommodate specific fishing activities. Some examples of special licenses I came across include:
- Lifetime Freshwater or Saltwater License (available for Florida residents only, cost varies by age)
- Gold Sportsman License (includes saltwater, freshwater, hunting, and other permits) for residents: $100.00 and for non-residents: $263.50
- Military Gold Sportsman License (for resident active duty and retired military): $20.00
Remember, these special license costs can change and may have additional requirements or fees.
Where to Purchase a Florida Fishing License
When planning to buy a Florida fishing license, it’s important for me to know several ways of purchasing one. Based on the information I gathered, these options are available:
Online
One of the most convenient ways for me to buy a Florida fishing license is through the official website: GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. It’s a quick and easy process that allows me to choose the appropriate fishing credentials for my needs.
In-Person
If I prefer to purchase my fishing license in person, I can do so at an authorized license agent or at the tax collector’s office. This is a great option if I want to speak with someone who can provide more information about the requirements and help me choose the right license or permit.
By Phone
An alternative way to obtain my Florida fishing license is by calling the toll-free numbers 888-FISH-FLORIDA (888-347-4356) or 888-HUNT-FLORIDA (888-486-8356). This method is handy when I need assistance or guidance while purchasing my license.
In conclusion, there are several options for me to purchase a Florida fishing license. I can do so online, in person, or by phone. Regardless of the method I choose, it’s essential for me to make sure I have the proper license or permit before embarking on my fishing trips.
Fishing License Exemptions
In Florida, there are certain exemptions where I don’t need a fishing license to fish. These exemptions can save me money and time. Let’s take a closer look at some of these exemptions.
First, if I am fishing in a fish pond of 20 acres or less that is located entirely within the private property of its owner, I am exempt from requiring a fishing license. This exemption also applies if I am fishing in my spouse’s, parent’s, or child’s pond. However, if the pond is more than 20 acres, the owner must have purchased a fish pond license at a fee of $3 per surface acre.
Additionally, certain groups of people are exempt from needing a fishing license. These groups include:
- Children under the age of 16
- Florida residents 65 years of age or older
- Disabled Florida residents who possess a Florida Resident Disabled Person Hunting and Fishing License
- Florida residents who are members of the Armed Forces, not stationed in the state, and home on leave for 30 days or less, upon submission of orders
It’s important to note that while these exemptions exist, specific rules and requirements may apply in certain cases. As such, I must always double-check the regulations to make sure that I am in compliance with Florida’s fishing regulations.
License-related Penalties and Regulations
As an angler in Florida, it is crucial to understand the potential penalties and regulations regarding fishing licenses. It’s essential to have a valid fishing license before heading out for a day of fishing in the Sunshine State. If caught fishing without a valid license, according to section 379.354, the offense is classified as a noncriminal violation level one.
One might face civil penalties for committing such a level one violation. If I were caught fishing without a license for the first offense, the penalty would be the cost of the license plus an additional $50 fine. For a repeat offender who has previously committed the same level one violation within the preceding 36 months, the civil penalty would be $250 plus the cost of the license or permit.
Here’s a breakdown of some common fishing licenses in Florida:
- Youth Freshwater Fishing, optional for children under 16, valid until 17th birthday: $17.00
- 5-Year Freshwater Fishing, valid for 5 years from the start date: $79.00
- Freshwater/Saltwater Fishing Combo, valid for 12 months from the start date: $32.50
Ultimately, it is important for me to remain compliant with Florida’s fishing regulations by maintaining a valid license. Not only does this protect the state’s invaluable natural resources, but it also helps fund crucial conservation efforts and ensures enjoyable angling experiences for everyone.
Now that you have the cost of a Florida fishing license, it is time to get a rod and reel and find a fishing spot near you!
