Planning a fishing trip to Florida means understanding the state’s licensing rules before you cast your line. In Florida, both residents and visitors need a fishing license for freshwater and saltwater fishing, with specific exemptions available for certain age groups and situations. Getting the right license keeps you legal on the water and helps protect Florida’s vital fishing resources.
You might wonder which type of license you need, how much it costs, or if you qualify for an exemption. The good news is that Florida’s licensing system offers several options designed for different fishing situations and budgets.
Whether you plan to fish from a pier, charter boat, or your own vessel, understanding these requirements helps you avoid fines and enjoy your time on the water.
This guide walks you through everything about Florida fishing license requirements. You’ll learn about the different license types available, who needs them and who doesn’t, where to buy them, and what they cost. By the end, you’ll know exactly what you need to fish legally in Florida waters.
Types of Fishing Licenses Available in Florida
Florida offers several license options depending on where and how you fish. The two main categories are freshwater and saltwater licenses.
Freshwater Fishing License
A freshwater fishing license covers fishing in lakes, rivers, streams, and other inland waters. You need this license if you plan to fish in freshwater areas across the state.
Saltwater Fishing License
A saltwater fishing license allows you to fish in coastal waters, bays, and the ocean. This license also covers taking marine organisms like crabs and lobsters.
Combination Licenses
You can purchase licenses based on your residency status and duration needs:
| License Type | Coverage | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Resident | Freshwater or saltwater for one year | Florida residents who fish regularly |
| Annual Nonresident | Freshwater or saltwater for one year | Visitors planning multiple trips |
| Short-term | 3-day or 7-day options | Tourists or occasional anglers |
| Lifetime | All fishing activities | Residents who fish frequently over many years |
Florida residents can choose between separate freshwater or saltwater licenses or buy both. Nonresidents typically need to purchase whichever type matches their fishing location.
Additional Permits
Beyond basic licenses, you may need special permits for specific species. These include permits for snook, spiny lobster, tarpon, and certain other regulated fish. Some management areas also require separate permits even if you have a valid fishing license.
You can buy your license online, at county tax collector offices, or through authorized retailers across Florida.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Florida
Most people who fish in Florida need a license. Both residents and visitors must have a Florida fishing license when they fish in freshwater or saltwater areas.
You need a license if you cast a line, even if you plan to catch and release. The license requirement applies when you attempt to take fish. Anyone who helps with fishing activities like baiting hooks or setting decoys also needs a license.
Florida residents need a resident fishing license for most fishing activities. Non-residents age 16 or older must purchase a non-resident fishing license. Your out-of-state license does not work in Florida.
Some people don’t need to buy a license. Kids under 16 fish without a license. Florida residents age 65 or older are exempt from fishing license requirements when they show proof of age.
You can fish without a license on your homestead property in your county of residence. Florida residents with certain disabilities may qualify for exemptions. Active military members home on leave for 30 days or less don’t need a license.
Free fishing days throughout the year let anyone fish without a license. If you fish from a licensed charter boat or pier with a valid saltwater pier license, you’re covered under their permit.
Florida residents on food stamps, temporary cash assistance, or Medicaid can fish from land or fixed structures in saltwater without a license when they show proper identification.
How to Obtain a Fishing License in Florida
Getting your Florida fishing license is a quick process. You can purchase it online, in person, or by phone.
The easiest way is through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. This online platform lets you buy your license immediately and start fishing right away. You can also download the Fish|Hunt app on your smartphone to purchase and store your licenses digitally.
Here are your purchasing options:
- Online: Visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.com 24/7
- In person: Go to any county tax collector’s office or authorized retail location
- Phone: Call 888-FISH-FLORIDA (888-347-4356)
You’ll need to provide basic information during the purchase process. This includes your name, address, date of birth, and physical characteristics. Florida residents must show proof of residency, such as a valid Florida driver’s license or ID card.
License types and duration:
| License Type | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Annual | 12 months | Regular anglers |
| Five-year | 5 years | Frequent fishers |
| Lifetime | Permanent | Long-term residents |
| Short-term | 3 or 7 days | Visitors |
The FWC sets all licensing requirements and current regulations for recreational fishing. After purchasing your license, keep it with you while fishing. Digital licenses on the Fish|Hunt app are valid proof.
Remember that different licenses apply to freshwater and saltwater fishing. Make sure you select the correct type for where you plan to fish.
Fishing License Costs and Validity Periods in Florida
Florida offers several license options for recreational anglers with different costs based on residency status and duration. Understanding these options helps you choose the right license for your fishing plans.
Resident License Costs
If you live in Florida, you pay lower rates than visitors. A one-year freshwater fishing license costs $17, while an annual saltwater license also costs $17. You can save money with a combined freshwater and saltwater license for $32.50 per year.
For longer-term fishing, Florida offers five-year licenses. The five-year saltwater license costs $79. The Gold Sportsman’s License is available for five years at $494, which includes both freshwater and saltwater fishing plus hunting permits.
Non-Resident License Costs
Non-residents pay higher fees for Florida fishing privileges. A seven-day saltwater license costs $30, perfect for vacation trips. An annual saltwater license for non-residents runs $47.
Special Permits and Their Costs
Beyond basic licenses, you need additional permits for certain species. A snook permit is required to keep snook, while a spiny lobster permit allows you to harvest lobster during season. If you target tarpon, you must purchase a tarpon tag before keeping one of these fish.
The Gold Sportsman’s License includes snook and lobster permits along with standard fishing privileges. Military members receive discounted rates at $20 annually for the Gold Sportsman’s License with proper identification.
