Florida Fishing License Information

View Full Size

Take advantage of year-round fishing in Florida.

Photo Credit: Doug Kelly

Information for obtaining a Florida fishing license, including helpful phone numbers and websites.

Anyone between the ages of 16 and 65 who fishes in Florida must have a fishing license. There are many different types available, but only recreational licenses are listed here. A complete list and current fees can be found on the FWC’s website, myfwc.com. The site also lists additional permits that might be required.It is important to point out that all anglers must abide by all applicable saltwater regulations and freshwater regulations, even if he or she does not require a license.

Note: To obtain a resident license, a person must have resided in Florida for six continuous months prior to the issuance of a license; must claim Florida as his/her primary residence; or be any member of the United States Armed Forces who is stationed in Florida (includes spouse and dependent children residing in the household).

Resident licenses

Annual freshwater fishing (five-year also available)

Annual saltwater fishing (five-year also available)

Saltwater shoreline

Freshwater/saltwater combo

Freshwater fishing /hunting combo

Saltwater fishing/hunting combo

Freshwater & saltwater fishing/hunting combo

Multi-use licenses (for residents only)

Sportsman (includes freshwater fishing and hunting licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Turkey, Florida Waterfowl permits)

Gold Sportsman (includes Hunting, Saltwater Fishing and Freshwater Fishing licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Turkey and Florida Waterfowl, Snook and Lobster permits)

Military Gold Sportsman (includes Hunting, Saltwater Fishing and Freshwater Fishing licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Turkey and Florida Waterfowl, Snook and Lobster permits) (sold only at tax collector's office)

Age 64 or older Sportsman (includes freshwater fishing and hunting licenses; and

Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Turkey and Florida Waterfowl permits)

Nonresident licenses

Annual freshwater fishing

Annual saltwater fishing

Three-day freshwater fishing

Three-day saltwater fishing

Seven-day freshwater fishing

Seven-day saltwater fishing

Fishing licenses are easily available at bait and tackle shops and license offices throughout the state of Florida. They can also be purchased via telephone at 888-FISH-FLORIDA, or online at the FWC’s Online License & Permit Sales Site.

Handy Links

Fishing Licenses

Saltwater Rules & Regulations

Freshwater Rules & Regulations:

FWC Online License & Permit Sales Site