The cost of a Florida fishing license depends on a few factors. First, it depends whether you are a resident or a non-resident. Second, it depends on where you’ll be fishing. Finally, the cost of your license will depend on the length of your fishing trip.
Freshwater fishing license
If you are planning to travel to Florida to fish in the freshwater lakes and rivers, you’ll need a freshwater fishing license. Typically, these are available for three-day trips and seven-day trips. If you plan to fish longer than that, you can purchase subsequent licenses. If you would like the convenience of being able to fish whenever you’d like for a period of a year, you can purchase an annual freshwater fishing license in Florida.
Saltwater fishing license
Similarly, if you plan to fish in the ocean or Gulf waters in Florida, you’ll need a saltwater fishing permit. These are available in the same lengths as freshwater fishing licenses. However, note that if you plan to catch and keep certain breeds of fish, you’ll need to secure a special additional permit. For example, if you wish to catch and keep lobster, you’ll have to secure a lobster permit, which will add approximately $5 to the cost of your license.
What happens if you lose your license?
If you misplace your license, you’ll have to pay for a replacement. Otherwise, you will not be allowed to legally fish, even though you had previously purchased a license.
Are there any exceptions to the need to have a license to fish in Florida?
There are some circumstances in which you are not required to secure a license to fish in Florida. If you are fishing on private property (in a lake that is wholly contained within private property) you do not need a license so long as you have the property owner’s permission to fish. In certain of northern Florida, you may require a Georgia fishing license instead of or in addition to your Florida fishing license.
Florida is a great place for anglers of all abilities to travel in pursuit of the perfect catch. There are so many beautiful places to cast a line, but always be sure to have the proper paper work before you head out. Otherwise, you could find yourself in some hot water.
(Photo by roome via Flickr)
Article written by Edwin