Florida Fishing Laws in 2026: Your Complete Guide to Staying Legal

Most people have no idea how strict Florida’s fishing rules actually are. Seriously. You could be breaking a law without even realizing it. Here’s the thing—Florida takes fishing violations really seriously, and the penalties can hit your wallet hard.

Here’s what you need to know before you cast your line anywhere in Florida. Whether you’re fishing in the ocean, lakes, or rivers, there are specific rules you have to follow. The good news? They’re not that complicated once you understand them.

What Is Florida Fishing?

Okay… this one’s important. In Florida, “fishing” means more than just catching fish. It includes trying to catch fish, even if you don’t succeed. You could be fishing if you cast a line, go catch and release, or even help someone else fish. The state treats all of these activities the same way legally.

Here’s the catch—literally. You need a license for most fishing activities. There are different licenses depending on what type of water you’re in and where you live.

Do You Need a License?

Let me break this down simply. If you’re fishing for saltwater fish, crabs, clams, or marine plants, you need a saltwater fishing license. If you’re fishing for freshwater species like bass or bream, you need a freshwater license. Pretty straightforward.

But wait—there’s more to know. Some people don’t need a license at all. Kids under 16 years old can fish without one. Florida residents who are 65 or older also get a free pass (they just need to carry proof of age).

Certain residents with disabilities get exemptions too. And here’s a helpful one—if you’re fishing from a licensed charter boat or guide, you don’t need your own license. The boat operator’s license covers you.

There’s also something called the “cane pole exemption.” Florida residents fishing in their home county with live bait and simple poles don’t always need a license. But here’s the catch—this only works if you’re fishing for noncommercial purposes and not in a fish management area.

Saltwater Fishing License Costs

You’re gonna love this one. A saltwater fishing license is actually pretty affordable. For Florida residents, an annual license costs around $17. Non-residents pay a bit more—around $47 for an annual license.

If you just want to test it out, you can get a 3-day non-resident license for $17 or a 7-day license for $30. You can buy licenses online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, at your county tax collector’s office, or through sporting goods stores.

Here’s the best part—you can buy and use your license immediately online. No waiting around.

Freshwater Fishing License Costs

Freshwater licenses run about the same price. Florida residents can get an annual freshwater license for roughly $17. Non-residents pay more, around $47 annually.

Want the combo deal? You can get both saltwater and freshwater licenses together, plus hunting privileges, for reasonable prices. This is perfect if you plan to fish different waters throughout the year.

What Fish Can You Keep? Bag Limits Explained

Here’s where it gets specific. Florida has different rules for different fish species. Not sure what counts as a violation? Let me break it down.

Each fish species has a daily bag limit. This is the maximum number of that fish you can keep in one day. For example, you can’t just catch 50 of the same fish and go home. Regulations limit how many you’re allowed to take.

Size limits matter too. If you catch a fish that’s too small, you have to release it immediately. If you keep an undersized fish, that’s a violation. The same goes for oversized fish in some cases—there are maximum size limits for certain species too.

Wondering if this applies to you? Every angler in Florida must follow these rules, residents and visitors alike.

Saltwater Species Regulations

Red snapper has a year-round season with a 20-inch minimum size limit. Keep that in mind if you’re heading to the ocean. Other species like grouper, snapper, and redfish all have specific requirements.

Some fish are completely closed to harvesting during certain seasons. This means you can’t keep them at all during those times. When a species is closed, you must release any you catch immediately.

Spiny lobster—the kind you find in Florida Keys—has strict rules. You need a special permit on top of your saltwater license. The minimum size for spiny lobster is 3 inches (measured by carapace length in the water). And here’s the important part—you have to land them whole. Separating the tail from the body in state waters is illegal.

Protected and Endangered Species

Hold on, this part is important. Some fish in Florida waters are completely protected. You can’t keep them under any circumstances. Sawfish, sea turtles, and some sharks fall into this category.

Goliath grouper is another one. This massive fish is protected, and you can’t harvest it. If you accidentally catch one, release it immediately and report the catch.

Violating these rules isn’t a minor offense. We’re talking serious criminal penalties here. Keep reading to understand how serious things can get.

Penalties and Consequences

This is where things get real. Florida doesn’t mess around with fishing violations. Penalties depend on what you did wrong and whether it’s your first offense.

Fishing without a valid license? That’s a violation. Residents face fines up to $50 for a first offense, up to $100 for repeat offenses. Non-residents pay more—up to $100 for the first offense and $250 for subsequent offenses.

Going over the bag limit is treated more seriously. You could face a fine up to $500 per violation. This adds up fast if you’re caught with multiple fish over the limit.

Keeping undersized fish? That’s up to $100 per fish. If you kept five undersized snapper, you’re looking at $500 just for that one mistake.

Using prohibited gear costs up to $500. Fishing during a closed season? Same penalty. Fishing in prohibited areas? Up to $500 again.

Honestly, this is the part most people miss. The fines stack up quickly. And here’s the serious stuff—harvesting protected or endangered species can result in fines of $2,500 or more.

Criminal Charges for Serious Violations

Okay, pause. Read this carefully. Some fishing violations go beyond fines. They become criminal charges.

Certain violations are classified as “Level 3 violations.” These are first-degree misdemeanors. You could face up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $500 for undersized fish violations. If it’s your second Level 3 violation within 10 years, the minimum mandatory fine jumps to $750, and you lose your fishing license for three years.

Level 4 violations are even worse. These are third-degree felonies. We’re talking about things like killing endangered species or major commercial violations. Third-degree felonies can mean up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines.

Not sure what counts as a violation? Confused about the difference? Let me give you examples. Catching and keeping a sawfish is a felony. Harvesting lobster during closed season in large quantities is a felony. These aren’t small-time offenses.

License Suspension

Here’s something many people don’t realize. The court can suspend your fishing license permanently. Your entire right to fish in Florida can be taken away.

Even temporary suspension is rough. If you’re caught with a major violation, your license might be suspended for three years. That means three years of no fishing in Florida, period.

Stay with me here. There’s more. If you’re convicted of a Level 3 violation and have prior Level 3 convictions within 10 years, your license gets suspended automatically. You can’t apply for a new one during the suspension period.

Gear and Equipment Restrictions

Certain types of fishing gear are completely illegal in Florida. You can’t use explosives, chemicals, poison, electricity, or speargun to fish. These are considered major violations.

Some nets are prohibited. Gill nets and other entangling nets have strict regulations. Knowing what gear is legal in your area is important. Different regions of Florida have different rules.

Pretty straightforward? You need to know what’s legal where you’re fishing. The Fish Rules App (available free for your phone) shows location-specific regulations. Use it.

Special Permits and Tags

Hold on, there’s more you need to know. Beyond your basic fishing license, some species require additional permits. Snook permits cost extra. Spiny lobster permits are required. These aren’t included in your regular license.

Tarpon—that massive silver fish—requires special tags. You need to purchase a tarpon tag before you can legally land one. These tags cost money and have limits on how many you can buy per year.

Think of it like a traffic ticket, but more serious. It’s an extra layer of regulation on top of your fishing license.

Freshwater Fishing Regulations

Freshwater fishing has different rules than saltwater fishing. You can’t use firearms, explosives, or poison to catch freshwater fish. Game fish like bass, crappie, and bluegill must be caught with a pole and line or rod-and-reel.

There’s no limit on the number of rods you can use. You can fish with multiple lines at once. But the fish you catch still have to follow bag and size limits.

Free fishing days happen twice a year. The first weekend in April (April 4-5, 2026) and the second weekend in June (June 13-14, 2026) don’t require a freshwater fishing license. But you still have to follow all other regulations.

Size and Bag Limits (Freshwater)

Bass has specific size and bag requirements. Check the current regulations for the exact numbers, as they can change seasonally. The same goes for bream, crappie, and other freshwater species.

It’s more common than you think for anglers to accidentally exceed limits without realizing it. This is why checking current regulations before you fish matters.

Special Circumstances and Exemptions

Florida residents aged 65 and older have it good. They don’t need freshwater or saltwater fishing licenses. They just need to carry proof of age and residency. Having an optional senior certificate is helpful, but not required.

Active-duty military members stationed in Florida, including spouses and dependents, get license exemptions too. Non-resident military on leave with valid orders for 30 days or less also qualify.

Certain residents with disabilities receive free Persons with Disabilities licenses. The Agency for Persons with Disabilities provides documentation needed for these exemptions.

Low-income residents in certain situations also get exemptions. If you receive food stamps, temporary cash assistance, or Medicaid, you might qualify for a saltwater fishing exemption when fishing from land. You need to show proof at the time of fishing.

How to Get Your License

Getting a fishing license is super easy. You have multiple options. The fastest way is online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. You can buy and download your license immediately. It’s available 24/7, and you can use it right away.

You can also visit your county tax collector’s office in person. Many sporting goods stores and hunting shops sell licenses too. Walmart locations sell some licenses, though not all types.

Want to call instead? Dial 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA (1-888-347-4356) toll-free. Operators can help you get the right license over the phone. Handling fees apply to phone and internet sales, but it’s still convenient.

Bring your identification when you purchase. You’ll need to verify residency if you’re claiming Florida resident status.

Staying Current with Regulations

Fish Rules App uses your phone’s GPS to show you location-specific regulations. This is huge. Different areas of Florida have different rules. The app adjusts rules based on where you actually are.

Download the free version or upgrade to ProStaff for extra features. You can see regulations when you’re out on the water, even without cell signal if you download them first.

The official FWC website is www.myfwc.com. Check there for the latest updates. Regulations change seasonally, and new closures are announced regularly.

What Happens If You Get Caught

Getting caught without a license or violating fishing laws is serious. A game warden can issue you a citation immediately. You’ll be ordered to appear in court.

Don’t ignore the citation. Failing to appear makes things way worse. You could face additional charges and arrest warrants. Show up to court, and bring documentation of your license if you have one.

If you’re cited for a violation, consider consulting with an attorney. Fishing violations might seem minor, but they can impact your record and future employment.

Common Violations and How to Avoid Them

The most common violation? Fishing without a valid license. This is totally preventable. Buy your license before you go.

Over bag limit is the second most common. Keep track of how many fish you’ve caught. When you hit your limit, stop fishing for that species.

Keeping undersized fish happens more than you’d think. Carry a measuring tool. When in doubt, release the fish. It’s not worth the $100 per fish fine.

Fishing in prohibited areas is easier to avoid than you think. Check FWC notices before you fish. Some areas are closed seasonally. Know where you can fish before you cast your line.

Reporting Violations

Seen someone fishing illegally? Report it. Call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922). You can report anonymously.

Give them specific information—location, what violation you witnessed, vehicle description, and time of day. This helps enforcement officers track down violators.

Wildlife violations hurt Florida’s fisheries. Reporting helps protect these resources for everyone.

How to Report Your Catch

Some fish require reports. Tarpon must be reported when landed. Atlantic red snapper has specific reporting requirements for some seasons.

Check current FWC regulations for which species require reporting. The app tells you if your species needs a report.

This isn’t punishment—it’s data collection. FWC uses these reports to manage fish populations responsibly.

Recent Changes and Updates (2025-2026)

Florida continues updating its fishing regulations to protect declining fish populations. Seasonal closures get adjusted based on fish stock assessments. Red snapper, for instance, has had several season adjustments in recent years.

Atlantic red snapper fishing has had limited seasons. FWC is testing new management approaches to reduce discards and improve harvests. Check current regulations before planning any red snapper trip.

Blue crab and stone crab regulations also change seasonally. These valuable species have strict harvest protocols. The regulations are designed to ensure sustainable populations.

Free Fishing Days

These are your chance to fish completely free in 2026. The first weekend in April (April 4-5) and second weekend in June (June 13-14) require no freshwater fishing license. You still need to follow all other fishing regulations though.

This is a great time to try fishing if you’ve never done it. Introduce your kids to the sport. Everyone’s fishing for free, so it’s a fun community activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license if I’m fishing from a charter boat?

No, you don’t. The charter boat’s license covers you as a passenger. The captain holds the commercial license that allows paying customers aboard. You still have to follow all fishing regulations for species and bag limits.

What if I accidentally keep a protected fish?

Release it immediately and report the catch to FWC if required. Having it in your possession, even accidentally, is technically a violation. Handle protected species carefully to avoid harming them.

Can I fish from a dock without a license?

Not unless you’re exempt or fishing from a licensed pier. Docks fixed to land require the same license as fishing from a boat. Check whether the dock is licensed before fishing.

What’s the penalty for fishing without a valid license?

Residents face up to $50 for first offense, up to $100 for repeat offenses. Non-residents pay more—up to $100 first offense, $250 repeat. Court costs and additional fees apply.

Can my fishing license be suspended?

Yes. Courts can suspend your fishing license for serious violations. Level 3 violations bring automatic three-year license suspensions with mandatory minimum fines of $750. Your license privileges are completely restricted during suspension.

Where do I report illegal fishing?

Call 1-888-404-FWCC (3922), the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline. You can report anonymously. Provide location, time, description of violation, and any vehicle information.

Are there different rules in different parts of Florida?

Absolutely. Regulations vary by region, county, and even specific waters. Coastal areas have different rules than inland. The Fish Rules App shows your exact location-specific regulations.

Do I need both a freshwater and saltwater license?

Only if you fish both types of water and keep the fish. If you have a saltwater license and accidentally catch a freshwater fish, you must release it. Combination licenses are available and cost-effective if you plan to fish both.

What fish are completely protected in Florida?

Sawfish, sea turtles, and certain shark species are completely protected. Goliath grouper is also protected. Check the FWC website for the complete list. If you catch a protected species, release it immediately.

Can I sell fish I catch recreationally?

No. Recreational fishing means non-commercial purposes only. Selling any fish caught on a recreational license is illegal. This makes it a commercial violation with serious penalties.

Final Thoughts

Florida’s fishing laws exist to protect an incredible resource. These waters have made Florida famous as the “Fishing Capital of the World.” Following regulations keeps fish populations healthy for you, your family, and future generations.

Now you know the basics. Stay informed, stay safe, and when in doubt, look it up or ask a lawyer. Download the Fish Rules App, check GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, and visit myfwc.com for current regulations before every trip.

The penalties for violations are serious. Fines, license suspension, and criminal records can follow you for years. It’s so much easier to follow the rules upfront than deal with consequences later.

Trust me on this one—fishing legally is always better than fishing illegally. You’ll enjoy your time on the water more knowing you’re doing everything right.

References

• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) – Saltwater Fishing Regulations: https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission – Freshwater Fishing Regulations: https://myfwc.com/fishing/freshwater/regulations/
• FWC Licensing Information – Do I Need a License?: https://myfwc.com/license/recreational/do-i-need-one/
• FWC Saltwater Recreational Licenses and Permits: https://myfwc.com/license/recreational/saltwater-fishing/
• Go Outdoors Florida – Official Licensing Portal: https://gooutdoorsflorida.com/
• Fish Rules App – Location-Based Fishing Regulations: https://fishrulesapp.com/
• Florida Statute 379.401 – Penalties and Violations: https://m.flsenate.gov/statutes/379.401
• Florida Statute 379.354 – Fishing and Hunting License Requirements: https://flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2025/379.354
• FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline – Report Violations: 1-888-404-FWCC (3922)
• NOAA Fisheries – Gulf of Mexico Fishing Regulations: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/southeast/rules-regulations/fishing-regulations-and-seasonal-closures-gulf-america