Non-Resident Fishing License Prices in Florida

A non-resident 3-day fishing license in Florida costs $17.00. A non-resident 7-day license costs $24.50. A non-resident annual license costs $47.00. These prices cover saltwater and freshwater fishing on the same license — you do not need separate permits for each type of water.

Prices are set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and do not vary by county or region. The cost is the same whether you fish in the Keys, the Gulf Coast, or inland lakes. If you plan to fish more than once during your trip, the 7-day license usually offers better value than buying multiple 3-day licenses.

Key Takeaways

  • Non-resident 3-day licenses cost $17.00, 7-day licenses cost $24.50, and annual licenses cost $47.00 in Florida.
  • One license covers both saltwater and freshwater fishing — you do not need to buy separate permits for different water types.
  • You can purchase a license online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website, by phone, or in person at bait and tackle shops.
  • Your license becomes valid when ready when purchased online or by phone, so you can fish the same day.
  • Some fish species require additional stamps or permits beyond the base fishing license.

Where to Buy Your Non-Resident License

The fastest way to buy a non-resident license is online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website at myfwc.com/license. You will need a valid driver's license or passport number, your date of birth, and a mailing address. The license is issued when ready after purchase and you can begin fishing right away.

You can also purchase a license by phone by calling 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA (1-888-347-4356). A staff member will take your information and process the payment. Licenses bought this way are also active when ready.

In-person purchases are available at most bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores, and some Walmart locations throughout Florida. Call ahead to confirm the shop carries non-resident licenses, as not all retailers stock them.

What Your License Covers

A non-resident fishing license covers rod-and-reel fishing in both saltwater and freshwater. You can fish in the ocean, bays, estuaries, rivers, lakes, and ponds with the same license. The license does not limit you to one body of water or one region of the state.

The license does not cover commercial fishing, spearfishing, or net fishing. It also does not cover taking certain species like lobster or stone crab, which require separate permits. If you plan to fish for tarpon, you will need an additional tarpon tag beyond your base license.

Duration and When Your License Starts

A 3-day license is valid for three consecutive calendar days starting the day you purchase it. A 7-day license is valid for seven consecutive calendar days. An annual license is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

If you buy a 3-day license on a Friday, it covers Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. If you buy it on a Monday, it covers Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. The calendar day matters — a license purchased at 11 p.m. on Friday still counts as day one.

Additional Permits and Stamps You Might Need

Some fish species in Florida require stamps or tags in addition to your base fishing license. A tarpon tag costs $10.00 and is required if you plan to fish for tarpon in saltwater. A snook stamp costs $10.00 and is required to fish for snook in saltwater or freshwater.

A saltwater products license is required if you plan to harvest saltwater species like grouper, snapper, or mahi-mahi. This license costs $17.00 for non-residents and is separate from your fishing license. Check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website or ask at your bait shop which species you plan to target require additional permits.

Proof of License and Inspection

When you fish, you must have your license with you at all times. If you purchased online or by phone, you can show the confirmation email or text message on your phone to a wildlife officer. You can also print the license and carry the physical copy.

Florida Fish and Wildlife officers patrol fishing areas and may ask to see your license. Fishing without a valid license can result in a citation and fine. If you lose your license number, you can look it up on the myfwc.com website using your driver's license number and date of birth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish the same day I buy my license?

Yes. If you purchase online or by phone, your license is active when ready and you can fish right away. In-person purchases at shops are also active when ready. You do not need to wait for anything to arrive in the mail.

Do I need a separate license for saltwater and freshwater?

No. One non-resident fishing license covers both saltwater and freshwater fishing. You do not need to buy two licenses or switch between them.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Florida law. You can receive a citation and be required to pay a fine. Wildlife officers patrol fishing areas and check licenses regularly.

Can I buy a license for someone else?

No. Each person who fishes must have their own license in their own name. You cannot use someone else's license or buy one for another person to use.

Is there a discount for military members or seniors?

Florida offers discounted resident licenses for military members, seniors, and disabled persons, but these discounts do not explore to non-resident licenses. Non-resident prices are the same for all purchasers.