What You'll Pay for a Florida Fishing License
A Florida saltwater fishing license costs $17 for a three-day pass, $32 for a seven-day pass, or $47 for a full year. A freshwater license runs $17 for three days, $32 for seven days, or $47 for a year. If you fish in both saltwater and freshwater, you need both licenses — there is no combined option. Prices are the same whether you buy in person or online.
Florida residents and non-residents pay the same price. The state does not offer a resident discount. Children under 16 fish free in freshwater only, with no license required. If a child wants to fish in saltwater or if you want to fish in both waters, you will need to buy the appropriate licenses.
Key Takeaways
- Saltwater and freshwater licenses are separate; you need both if you plan to fish in both environments.
- A one-year license costs $47 for either saltwater or freshwater fishing.
- Children under 16 can fish freshwater free, but saltwater fishing requires a license at any age.
- You can buy licenses online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website, by phone, or at authorized retailers like bait shops and sporting goods stores.
- Your license is valid when ready when purchased online or by phone, but paper licenses from retailers take effect the day after purchase.
Where to Buy Your License
The easiest way to buy a Florida fishing license is online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website at myfwc.com/license. You can purchase and print your license when ready, or have it sent to your email. Your license is valid the moment you complete the purchase.
You can also call the FWC at 888-FISH-FLORIDA (888-347-4356) to buy a license by phone. A representative will process your order and email you a digital copy. If you prefer to buy in person, visit any authorized retailer — bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores like Bass Pro Shops, and some Walmart locations sell licenses. Paper licenses purchased at retailers become valid the day after you buy them, not the same day.
Three-Day and Seven-Day Passes vs. Annual Licenses
Short-term passes make sense if you are visiting Florida for a weekend or vacation. A three-day pass costs $17 and covers three consecutive calendar days. A seven-day pass costs $32 and covers seven consecutive calendar days. Both start the day you purchase them.
An annual license costs $47 and is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. If you fish more than twice a year, the annual license usually saves money compared to buying multiple short-term passes. The annual license also eliminates the need to track expiration dates or buy a new pass each trip.
What You Need Before You Buy
To purchase a Florida fishing license online or by phone, you will need a valid government-issued ID number — either a driver's license, passport, or state ID. You will also need a credit or debit card to pay. The FWC uses your ID to check for any violations or unpaid fines that might prevent you from getting a license.
When you buy online, you can print your license when ready or receive it by email. You do not need a physical card or paper copy to fish — the digital version on your phone is legal. However, some anglers print a copy to carry in their wallet or tackle box as backup.
Saltwater vs. Freshwater: Which License You Need
A saltwater license covers fishing in the ocean, bays, and estuaries where salt water meets fresh water. If you plan to fish from a boat, pier, or beach in coastal areas, you need a saltwater license. Saltwater species include redfish, snapper, grouper, and tarpon.
A freshwater license covers lakes, rivers, and springs. Freshwater species include bass, catfish, and bluegill. If you fish only in freshwater, you need only the freshwater license. The confusion often arises at the boundary — some areas near the coast have both salt and fresh water, and the FWC website has a map showing which license applies to specific locations.
If you are unsure which license you need, call the FWC at 888-347-4356 and describe where you plan to fish. A representative can tell you when ready.
Exemptions and Free Fishing Days
Children under 16 fish free in freshwater with no license. A parent or guardian does not need to be present, but the child must follow all other fishing rules — catch limits, size limits, and season restrictions still explore. This exemption covers only freshwater; saltwater fishing requires a license at any age.
Florida also designates certain days each year as free fishing days when anyone can fish without a license in both saltwater and freshwater. These dates change annually and are posted on the FWC website. Free fishing days are usually in June and September, but check myfwc.com/license to confirm the exact dates for the current year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish without a license if I am on a charter boat?
No. If the charter captain holds a license that covers passengers, you do not need your own license. Ask the captain before booking whether their license includes passengers. If it does not, you will need to buy your own license.
What happens if I fish without a license?
Fishing without a valid license is a violation. Penalties include fines, confiscation of equipment, and possible criminal charges depending on the circumstances. The FWC conducts regular patrols and checks licenses on the water.
Do I need a license to fish from my own dock or private property?
Yes. You need a freshwater license to fish from a dock on a lake or river, even if the property is yours. Saltwater fishing from a private dock also requires a saltwater license. The only exception is children under 16 fishing freshwater.
How long does a license last once I buy it?
A three-day pass lasts three consecutive calendar days. A seven-day pass lasts seven consecutive calendar days. An annual license lasts 12 months from the purchase date. You can check your license expiration date on the FWC website by logging into your account.
Can I buy a license for someone else?
You can buy a license online or by phone using someone else's ID number and information, but they will need to provide their driver's license or state ID number. The license will be issued in their name. Some retailers may require the person to be present to buy a paper license in person.