Where to Buy Your Florida Fishing License

You can buy a Florida fishing license online through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website, by phone, or in person at a retail location. The online route is fastest — you can purchase and print your license the same day, often within minutes. The FWC website is GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, and the phone number is 888-FISH-FLORIDA (888-347-4356).

In-person sales happen at sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart and Target locations across the state. Call ahead to confirm the store near you carries licenses, since not every location does. You will need to show a valid ID when you buy in person.

If you buy online, you must print your license before you fish — a digital copy on your phone is not legal. The printed license must be with you while you are fishing. If you lose it, you can reprint from your account on GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or call the FWC to request a replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • Florida residents pay $17 for a 3-year license or $32 for a 5-year license; non-residents pay $47 for a 7-day license or $67 for a 3-year license.
  • You must carry your printed license with you while fishing — a digital copy does not meet the legal requirement.
  • Licenses are sold online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, by phone at 888-347-4356, and at sporting goods and bait shops throughout the state.
  • Some people do not need a license, including children under 16, Florida residents fishing in their own pond, and people fishing from a licensed charter boat.

License Types and Costs for Florida Residents

Florida residents have two main options: a 3-year license for $17 or a 5-year license for $32. Both cover saltwater and freshwater fishing anywhere in the state. The 5-year license is the better value if you plan to fish more than once a year.

Residents also have the option to buy a 1-year license for $17, which is the same price as the 3-year license — so the 3-year is always the better choice. A 3-year license is valid for three calendar years from the date you buy it, not three years from today.

To prove residency, you will need a Florida driver's license, Florida ID card, or a utility bill with your name and a Florida address. If you do not have one of these, you may be able to use a combination of documents — call the FWC to ask what they will accept.

License Types and Costs for Non-Residents

Non-residents can buy a 7-day license for $47, a 30-day license for $67, or a 3-year license for $67. The 3-year and 30-day licenses cost the same, so if you think you might fish again within three years, the 3-year is the better choice.

Non-resident licenses cover both saltwater and freshwater fishing. You will need a valid ID from your home state or country when you buy. If you are visiting Florida and plan to fish only once during your trip, the 7-day license is the most affordable option.

Who Does Not Need a License

Children under 16 do not need a license to fish in Florida, whether they are residents or visitors. They can fish in saltwater or freshwater without one, as long as they follow all other fishing rules.

Florida residents fishing in their own pond on their own property do not need a license. However, if the pond is on leased land or shared property, you will need one. If you are unsure whether your water counts, contact the FWC before you fish.

People fishing from a licensed charter boat do not need their own license — the charter captain's license covers passengers. If you are fishing from a private boat or from shore, you need your own license. Residents fishing from a licensed pier or jetty also do not need a license, but this applies only to certain public piers — ask at the location before you fish.

What You Need to Know Before You Fish

Your license covers the right to fish, but it does not cover the fish themselves. Florida has strict rules about which species you can keep, how many, and what size they must be. These rules change by season and by location, so check the current regulations on GoOutdoorsFlorida.com before you go.

Saltwater and freshwater rules are different. For example, you can keep five largemouth bass in freshwater, but only one tarpon in saltwater. Some fish are catch-and-release only. The FWC publishes a free guide called the Florida Fishing Handbook, which lists all the rules by species — read it before your trip.

If you fish in a county or area with local rules, those rules override the state rules. For example, some counties have shorter seasons or smaller bag limits. Call the FWC or check their website for your specific county before you fish.

How to Check Your License Status Online

Log into your account on GoOutdoorsFlorida.com to see your license expiration date, license number, and purchase history. You can also reprint your license from this page if you lose the original. If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page.

If you bought your license by phone or in person and do not have an online account, you can create one by entering your license number and the email address you provided at purchase. If you do not remember your license number, call the FWC at 888-347-4356 and they will look it up for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish with someone else's license?

No. Each person fishing must have their own license. A license is not transferable, even within a family. Children under 16 are the only exception — they can fish without a license while an adult with a valid license is present.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a license is a violation of Florida law. Penalties include fines starting at $100 and can go much higher depending on the circumstances. The FWC enforces this rule, and officers patrol popular fishing areas regularly.

Do I need a separate license for saltwater and freshwater fishing?

No. A single Florida fishing license covers both saltwater and freshwater. You do not need to buy two licenses or upgrade to fish in different types of water.

Can I buy a license as a gift for someone else?

Yes. You can buy a license online or in person and give the printed license to someone else. The person using the license must have it with them while fishing, and it must be valid for the dates they fish.

What if my license expires while I am on a fishing trip?

You must renew your license before you fish again. You cannot fish on an expired license, even if you are in the middle of a trip. Renew online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or by phone before you go out on the water.