Fishing in the Sunshine State is an adventure of a lifetime—but before you can cast a line, you need permission. This thorough beginner’s guide covers how to get a fishing license in Florida, with all the latest updates for 2025. Whether you’re a tourist or resident, planning freshwater or saltwater trips, fishing from shore or boat, this post breaks it all down. Plus, we’ll explore license types, costs, purchase methods, exemptions, prime Florida fishing spots, and must‑have gear. Let’s get started!
How to Get a Fishing License in Florida
Florida enforces its fishing license system through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Licenses are mandatory for anyone aged 16 or older fishing in freshwater or saltwater—unless exempt. Anglers aged 16 and over must comply, so here’s how to get a fishing license in Florida, no confusion or surprises!
Florida License Types
You must choose from several license types based on residency, fish type, and duration:
- Resident freshwater license – for Florida residents, freshwater only.
- Resident saltwater license – residents targeting saltwater.
- Resident combination license – both freshwater and saltwater.
- Non‐resident freshwater license – out‑of‑state visitors wanting freshwater only.
- Non‑resident saltwater license – non‑residents targeting saltwater.
- Non‑resident combination license – for non‑residents fishing both.
- Short‑term licenses – 3‑day, 7‑day, or 30‑day options (saltwater).
- Lifetime licenses – available to residents, covering all water types.
- Trout stamp – required for anglers targeting inland trout.
Your needs may span multiple categories, but the combination license offers the most flexibility.
License in Florida: Getting Your License Online
Step 1: Visit MyFWC.com or the FWC License Portal
Head online to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission’s official portal.
Step 2: Register or Log In
Residents can register using a Florida driver license; non‑residents must create a new login.
Step 3: Select License Type
Follow prompts to choose resident or non‑resident, freshwater, saltwater, etc.
Step 4: Add Trout Stamp (If Needed)
If you plan to fish for inland trout, include the Trout Stamp.
Step 5: Select Duration/Options
Choose between annual or short‑term choices. Non‑residents often favor 7‑day or 30‑day stamps.
Step 6: Provide Personal Info & Residency Verification
Residents use their driver’s license; non‑residents verify via address and ID.
Step 7: Payment
The system accepts major credit/debit cards. Payment is simple and secure.
Step 8: Print or Use Digital Copy
You’ll receive an email confirmation. Print it or display on your smartphone. Florida accepts digital licenses.
Step‑by‑Step: Getting Your License In‑Person
Not tech‑savvy? No problem! Try these locations:
A. Walmart
Many locations have FWC license kiosks—quick, easy, and often open late.
B. Local Bait & Tackle Shops
Smaller shops provide a personalized touch and can advise on local regulations and spots.
C. FWC Regional Offices
Ideal if you need help or have special questions. Find your district office online.
D. Tax Collector’s Offices
County tax collectors often offer licenses. Hours may vary.
In‑person, bring your ID, residency proof (if applicable), and credit/debit/cash.
License Costs & Exemptions (2025)
Resident License Fees
- Freshwater: $17
- Saltwater: $17
- Combination: $32
- Trout Stamp: $5
- Lifetime licenses: hundreds but paid once
Non‑Resident Fees
- Freshwater: $17
- Saltwater (annual): $40
- Combination: $57
- Trout Stamp: $5
- Short‑term saltwater: 3-day $17, 7-day $30, 30-day $50
Exemptions
- Florida residents under 16 or 65+ accompanied by a licensed angler
- Full‑time active FL military with ID
- Persons with disabilities (with certification)
- Residents fishing on private property
- Anyone fishing on licensed group camp waters
Note: Always carry documentation proving your exemption.
Where to Buy
- MyFWC.com (fastest, easiest)
- FWC Mobile App (buy and store digital license on phone)
- Walmart Kiosks (wide availability, extended hours)
- Local bait shops & tackle stores (great for on‑the‑spot advice)
- Tax collector / FWC offices (helpful staff)
Fishing Spots in Florida
Florida boasts unparalleled angling diversity—saltwater flats, freshwater lakes, coastal inlets, and offshore reefs. Here are top destinations:
1. Florida Keys
World‑renowned for bonefish, tarpon, permit, snapper, and grouper. Popular spots: Islamorada, Marathon, Key West.
2. Everglades National Park
A freshwater adventure for largemouth bass, snook, and catfish. Shallow waters ideal for sight fishing.
3. Tampa Bay
Anglers troll for snook, redfish, trout, and tarpon in scenic estuaries and shoreline structure.
4. Fort Myers / Sanibel Island
Excellent flats and back‑country fishing for redfish and snook.
5. St. Johns River
Florida’s longest river offers diverse inland species like bass, catfish, and crappie.
6. Crystal River
Known for peaceful freshwater bass and close encounters with manatees swimming nearby.
7. Jacksonville & Amelia Island
Great for surf fishing, jetties, and estuary action—targeting pompano, trout, bull redfish.
Essential Gear & Affiliate Recommendations
Fishing in Florida demands the right gear—rods, reels, lures, tackle, and electronics. Consider:
Recommended Essentials
- Lightweight spinning combo rod & reel (7–9 ft for salt flats)
- Medium-heavy rod for big tarpon and snook
- Quality terminal tackle: hooks, leaders, weights
- Bait: live pinfish, shrimp, crab, or artificial lures
- Tackle Boxes/Bags: organized storage
- Sun protection: broad-brim hats, polarized sunglasses
- Personal gear: insect repellent, hydration packs, rainwear
Affiliate Angle 💼
Link to Amazon gear:
- Premium spinning rods
- Reels reliable in saltwater
- Talk live bait from specialty shops
- Florida fishing apps (Fishbrain, ANGLR) with affiliate links
- Tackle shop affiliations (local bait & tackle stores with online shops)
Florida Outdoor Apps
Enhance your fishing experience with key apps:
FWC Mobile App
License management, regulations, catch‑reporting, and real-time updates.
Fishbrain
Active Florida angler community, hotspots, journal tracking.
ANGLR
Logs, insights, weather and tide overlay, record catches.
MyFWC Hunting & Fishing Regulations
Official regulations, boundary maps, alerts, and closures.
2025 Regulation Updates
✅ In 2025, Florida made several changes:
- Saltwater license fees increased by $1–$3
- New bag limits on mangrove snapper and gag grouper
- Permit quota tightened in certain fisheries
- Greater reporting requirements for catch-and-release tournaments
Always consult the FWC app or website for updates before heading out.
Tips for Non‑Residents
- A 7‑day saltwater license costs ~$30—ideal for tourists on week‑long trips.
- Carry your physical or digital license when fishing from shore, pier, or onboard. Under‑16s fish free.
- Some tackle shops sell combo license + bait packages ideal for vacationers.
Common Q&A
Do I need a license for pier fishing?
Yes—any public pier falls under licensed requirement unless state‑posted as “license exempt.”
Can I use live bait?
Yes! Just make sure you’re allowed for your license & pay attention to regional rules.
How long is the license valid?
Annual licenses are valid from July 1 to June 30 next year.
Can I share my license?
No, each angler aged 16+ must have their own, even on the same boat.
Are there combo exemptions?
Yes—youth, seniors, veterans, and disabled residents fishing with license‑holding companions.
Can I buy a short‑term freshwater license?
No—short‑term licenses are available only for saltwater.
Conclusion
Securing a license is your first step toward Florida fishing success. To recap:
- Choose resident vs non-resident, freshwater vs saltwater, and duration.
- Purchase online via MyFWC.com/app or in‑person at convenient locations.
- Be aware of cost breaks, exemptions, and updated 2025 regs.
- Get essential gear through trusted affiliates.
- Uncover top fishing spots and maximize experience with smart apps.
Once licensed, you’re set to explore Florida’s natural fishing wonders. Whether landing a trophy snook in the Everglades or chasing tarpon in the Keys, your adventure starts here—licensed and legally ready! 🎣