Whether you’re slinging lures in the Everglades or dropping bait off a Key Biscayne pier, Florida law says you need a fishing license … unless you meet certain exemptions.
Luckily, getting one is quick and easy. Here’s your no-B.S., step-by-step guide to getting legally licensed and back on the water.
STEP 1: Decide What Kind of License You Need
Florida offers two types of recreational fishing licenses:
| License Type | Use It For… |
| Freshwater | Bass, bluegill, peacock bass, etc. (canals, lakes, swamps) |
| Saltwater | Snook, snapper, mahi, etc. (beaches, inshore, offshore) |
⚠️ Want both? Save time with a combo license.
STEP 2: Check if You’re a Florida Resident
Your residency status affects the cost and options:
- ✅ Florida Resident: Can buy annual, 5-year, or lifetime licenses.
- ❌ Non-Resident: Only eligible for 3-day, 7-day, or annual licenses.
To qualify as a resident, you need:
- Valid Florida driver’s license
- Florida voter registration
- Or proof of established Florida domicile
STEP 3: Choose How You’ll Get It
Option 1: Online (Fastest & Easiest)
Visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.com
Create an account or log in. Select your license, pay by card, and download your digital copy immediately.
Bonus: You can print a paper copy or save it on your phone.
Option 2: In Person
Get your license at:
- Walmart
- Bass Pro Shops
- Academy Sports
- Local bait & tackle shops
- County tax collector’s offices
Just bring your ID and payment.
Option 3: By Phone
Call 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA (347-4356)
They’ll walk you through it and email or mail your license.
STEP 4: Pay the Fee
Here’s a quick price breakdown for 2025:
Florida Resident Prices:
- Freshwater or Saltwater (Annual): $17
- Saltwater + Snook Permit: $27
- Combo License (Fresh + Salt): $32.50
- 5-Year License: $79.00
- Lifetime License: Varies by age (starts at $126.50)
Non-Resident Prices:
- 3-Day: $17
- 7-Day: $30
- Annual: $47
🎯 Optional Add-ons: Snook permit, lobster permit, tarpon tag
STEP 5: Carry Proof While Fishing
Once you have your license, keep proof on you while fishing:
- Printed paper copy
- Digital license in the Fish|Hunt FL app
- Screenshot of your license from GoOutdoorsFlorida
BONUS: Free Fishing Days
You can legally fish without a license on these state-designated days:
2025 License-Free Days (FWC):
- Saltwater: June 7–8, Sept 6
- Freshwater: April 5–6, June 14–15
Mark your calendar!
Now You’re Legal, Go Fish!
That’s it. No excuses. No “but I thought catch & release was fine.”
Get your license, support conservation, and avoid a fine from FWC.
Made in Dade, fishing the right way.