For example, targeting largemouth bass generally requires a freshwater fishing license, while targeting snook requires a saltwater fishing license even when you’re fishing upriver in freshwater. If you plan to target both freshwater and saltwater species, a combination license may be a convenient option for Florida residents.
Florida fishing license types and fees
The following table summarizes common recreational fishing license options and published fees. Prices may include administrative fees but exclude additional handling charges. Confirm the current price and eligibility through the official Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) licensing portal before purchasing.
| License | Who it’s for | Price | Key details |
| Resident annual freshwater fishing license | Eligible Florida residents | $17.00 | Valid for freshwater fishing |
| Resident 5-year freshwater fishing license | Eligible Florida residents | $79.00 | Long-term freshwater option |
| Non-resident annual freshwater fishing license | Visitors | $47.00 | Valid for freshwater fishing |
| Non-resident 3-day freshwater fishing license | Short-term visitors | $17.00 | Valid for three consecutive days |
| Non-resident 7-day freshwater fishing license | Short-term visitors | $30.00 | Valid for seven consecutive days |
| Resident annual saltwater fishing license | Eligible Florida residents | $17.00 | Covers recreational saltwater fishing |
| Resident 5-year saltwater fishing license | Eligible Florida residents | $79.00 | Long-term saltwater option |
| Non-resident annual saltwater fishing license | Visitors | $47.00 | Valid for saltwater fishing |
| Non-resident 3-day saltwater fishing license | Short-term visitors | $17.00 | Valid for three consecutive days |
| Non-resident 7-day saltwater fishing license | Short-term visitors | $30.00 | Valid for seven consecutive days |
| Resident annual freshwater and saltwater combination | Eligible Florida residents | $32.50 | Covers both types of recreational fishing |
| Resident shoreline saltwater fishing license | Eligible Florida residents fishing from shore | Free | Shoreline-only; restrictions apply |
| Resident lifetime freshwater or saltwater license | Eligible Florida residents | From $125.00 | Price depends on age and license type |
Optional youth licenses are also available for certain young anglers, but they do not replace age-based exemptions. Additional permits may be required for species such as snook and spiny lobster.
Fishing a bass lake or canal? Read the water with depth maps and check conditions before you launch. Explore Fishbox.
Florida fishing license age requirements and exemptions
Florida’s fishing license age requirements depend on the angler’s age, residency, and fishing activity.
Generally, residents and non-residents aged 16 and older need the appropriate recreational fishing license unless an exemption applies. Children under 16 are exempt from the standard recreational fishing license requirement.
Florida fishing license for seniors
Florida residents aged 65 and older are generally exempt from recreational freshwater and saltwater fishing license requirements if they can provide proof of age and residency.
Eligible residents can also obtain a free Resident 65+ Hunt/Fish Certificate through GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or a county tax collector’s office. This certificate can be useful when fishing because it provides documentation of the exemption.
The senior exemption is for eligible Florida residents. Visitors aged 65 and older generally still need the appropriate non-resident license.
Other fishing license exemptions
Certain anglers may fish without purchasing a standard recreational license under specific circumstances, including:
- Children under 16: Generally exempt from recreational freshwater and saltwater fishing license requirements.
- Qualifying residents fishing from shore: Florida residents may qualify for certain shoreline saltwater fishing exemptions or the free shoreline license, depending on their circumstances.
- Qualifying private-property fishing: Certain freshwater fishing activities on eligible private ponds or homestead property may be exempt.
- Certain military personnel: Specific exemptions may apply to eligible Florida residents serving in the U.S. Armed Forces while home on leave.
- Eligible disabled anglers: Qualifying Florida residents may be eligible for a no-cost disability fishing license or other exemptions.
- Certain licensed vessels and fishing operations: Some anglers fishing aboard appropriately licensed vessels, charter boats, or licensed piers may not need an individual saltwater fishing license.
These exemptions have specific conditions. Check FWC’s official fishing license exemption guidance before heading out.
Where to buy a Florida fishing license online
You can purchase a Florida fishing license online, in person, or by phone. Choose the option that is most convenient for your trip.
- Online: Visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, Florida’s official licensing portal.
- In person: Visit a licensed fishing license agent or a county tax collector’s office.
- By phone: Call 888-FISH-FLORIDA at 888-347-4356.
- Mobile app: Use the Fish|Hunt FL app, available for Apple and Android devices.
Can you get a Walmart fishing license in Florida?
Yes, some Walmart stores in Florida sell fishing licenses through their outdoor or sporting goods departments. However, not every location offers this service, and availability and opening hours vary.
If you want to buy a Walmart fishing license in Florida, contact your local store before visiting. You can also use the official GoOutdoorsFlorida licensing portal to find an authorized agent or purchase your license online.
Before your trip, make sure your license covers the type of fishing you plan to do. A freshwater license does not authorize saltwater fishing, and vice versa.
How to renew a Florida fishing license
If your current license is expiring, you can renew your Florida fishing license online through the official GoOutdoorsFlorida portal.
- Visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
- Sign in to your account or follow the portal’s instructions to locate your licensing record.
- Select the appropriate license for your next fishing period.
- Review the details, pay any applicable fees, and save your updated license.
You can also renew through an authorized license agent or county tax collector’s office.
Before renewing, check whether your fishing plans have changed. If you previously purchased a freshwater license but now want to target saltwater species, you may need a different license or a combination option if you’re eligible.
Freshwater vs. saltwater fishing in Florida
Florida has a wide range of fishing opportunities, from inland lakes and rivers to estuaries, bays, and the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Choosing the correct license starts with identifying the species you intend to catch—not simply whether the water looks fresh or salty.
Freshwater fishing license Florida
A freshwater fishing license is generally required when targeting freshwater species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and other freshwater fish, unless an exemption applies.
Florida’s freshwater fisheries include lakes, rivers, canals, and managed fishing areas. Regulations can vary by location and species, so check the applicable size limits, bag limits, and seasons before fishing.
Florida saltwater fishing license
A Florida saltwater fishing license is generally required when targeting saltwater species, including fish and certain other marine organisms, unless an exemption applies.
Depending on where you fish and what you target, you may also need additional permits. For example, snook and spiny lobster require separate permits in many circumstances, and special rules may apply to other species.
Florida residents who fish only from shore may qualify for a free shoreline saltwater license. This license does not cover fishing from a vessel or a shoreline reached by boat. Non-residents are not eligible for the resident shoreline-only license.
Fishing on a license-free day? Find a spot near you and check the forecast first.
Got your license? Plan the trip
Florida fishing ranges from freshwater bass lakes to coastal saltwater spots, and conditions can change with the weather and tides. Fishbox helps you find fishing spots near you and check forecasts so you can choose when to go with more information.
No forecast can guarantee a catch, but it can help you plan your time on the water.