Plan You Fish Florida Alliance Trip: Get A Fishing License

Get A License!

Who needs a recreational fishing license or permit?

Whether you are a resident of Florida or just visiting, you are required to possess a Florida freshwater fishing or saltwater fishing license when engaged in fishing activities. Fishermen over the age of 16 are required to obtain a fishing license before fishing in freshwaters or saltwater unless you are fishing on a privately-owned pond.

• A license is required to attempt to take fish. If you cast a line or catch and release, you need a fishing license to take fish. If you cast a line or catch and release, you need a fishing license.

• A saltwater fishing license is required to attempt to take any native or nonnative marine organisms, such as crabs, lobsters, and marine plants.

• Licenses and permits are required to help or assist in the take. Someone who is passively participating (baiting hooks), whether actively fishing or or not, must have a license and appropriate permits.

• Persons who are listed on the National Saltwater Angler Registry are required to have a Florida recreational fishing license unless exempt as listed below.

• Need help choosing the right license and permits? The rules and regulations for saltwater fishing are different from freshwater fishing. Learn more about the rules and regulations and obtain a license before you fish!



Florida Saltwater Fishing License Information

Before purchasing recreational fishing licenses and permits, please verify all requirements based on activity.

Licenses and permits are available online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, in person at a license agent or tax collector's office or by calling toll-free 888-FISH-FLORIDA (888-347-4356).

Check what qualifies for Florida residency and if you are eligible for exemptions.

All anglers (including those 65 and older) who intend to fish for or harvest certain reef fish from a private vessel in Florida are required to obtain the State Reef Fish Angler designation.

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