Florida fishing guide

Welcome to your key source for all fishing-related information in Florida. Discover not only the prime fishing spots but also learn about the diverse species inhabiting these waters. Stay informed about the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in Florida

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83 waterbodies
410 cities
134 fishes

What kind of fish can you catch in Florida

Below are 134 types of fish that can be caught in Florida. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from Florida and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of Florida to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.

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Licenses for fishing in Florida

To purchase a fishing license or for more detailed information, you can visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website or Go Outdoors Florida.

License Type Resident Fee Non-Resident Fee
Annual Freshwater Fishing License $17.00 $47.00
5-year Freshwater Fishing License $79.00 -
Annual Saltwater Fishing License $17.00 $47.00
5-year Saltwater Fishing License $79.00 -
Annual Combination Freshwater and Saltwater License $32.50 -
3-day Freshwater Fishing License - $17.00
7-day Freshwater Fishing License - $30.00
3-day Saltwater Fishing License - $17.00
7-day Saltwater Fishing License - $30.00

Additional information:

  • Children under 16 years old do not need a fishing license in Florida.
  • Florida residents who are 65 or older are exempt from needing a fishing license.
  • Non-resident seniors need a fishing license to fish in Florida.

Fishing Regulations in Florida

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
  • Use of explosives, poisons, or electricity for fishing is illegal.
  • Spearguns are prohibited in freshwater.
  • Traps for recreational fishing, except for specific species like crabs, are forbidden.
  • Gill nets and entangling nets are not allowed in state waters.
  • Use of multiple hooks in conjunction with live or dead natural bait is banned.
Catch Limits
  • Redfish: Daily limit of 1 per person in the North Zone, 2 in the South Zone.
  • Snook: Slot limit of 28-33 inches in Gulf waters, 28-32 inches in Atlantic waters.
  • Spotted Seatrout: Daily limit varies by region (2-5), with specific size limits.
  • Grouper: Various species have specific bag and size limits.
  • King Mackerel: Minimum size limit of 24 inches, with a bag limit of 2 per person.
  • Lobster: Bag limit of 6 per person per day during regular season.
  • Snapper: Different species have varying bag and size limits.
  • Shark: Limit of 1 per person or 2 per vessel, whichever is less, with size restrictions.
  • Tarpon: Catch-and-release only, with a limit of one harvest tag per person per year.
  • Scallops: Bag and vessel limits vary by region and season.
Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies
  • Specific areas in Everglades National Park are designated as no-fishing zones.
  • Certain springs and designated manatee sanctuaries prohibit fishing.
  • Private property rights must be respected - permission required for access.
  • Fishing is restricted in military bases and certain protected areas.
  • Some bridges and piers have specific regulations or may be closed to fishing.
Zones of Special Regulation
  • Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary has specific regulations and no-take zones.
  • Special regulations for snook, redfish, and spotted seatrout in designated areas.
  • Biscayne National Park has special rules for fishing and lobstering.
  • Specific bag and size limits in the Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Management Area.
  • Certain state parks have unique fishing regulations or may prohibit fishing entirely.
Protection of Rare Species
  • Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
  • Special regulations for the protection of bonefish, permit, and tarpon.
  • Certain areas designated for the protection of coral reefs and associated species.
  • Harassment or capture of marine mammals, including manatees, is illegal.
  • Regulations in place for the protection of sea turtles and their habitats.
Seasonal Restrictions
  • Lobster season: Closed from April 1 to August 6.
  • Snook season: Varies by coast; generally closed in the summer and winter months.
  • Grouper season: Closed from January 1 to April 30 in Gulf waters.
  • Scallop season: Typically open from July to September, varying by region.
  • Shark breeding season: Certain areas closed to fishing during specific months.

Most popular cities for fishing in Florida

The largest and most popular fishing cities in Florida. Cities in Florida include information on fishing, as well as a map with fishing spots. Explore the cities to know what fish are caught and in which bodies of water.

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