FishKillFlea Florida Fishing License Guide (2026)
Florida requires a fishing license for residents and non-residents 16 years or older. FWC offers separate freshwater ($17) and saltwater ($17) licenses, plus a combo ($32.50). Florida residents enjoy a unique shore-based saltwater fishing exemption and seniors 65+ fish free!
16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$17
Resident/yr
$47
Non-Res/yr
💰 License Costs (2026)
Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Freshwater 12 months from purchase | $17 |
| Annual Saltwater 12 months from purchase | $17 |
| Annual Combo (Fresh + Salt) Best value for both | $32.50 |
| 5-Year Freshwater | $79 |
| 5-Year Saltwater | $79 |
| Gold Sportsman License FW + SW + hunting + all permits | $100 |
| Lifetime Sportsman License All fishing + hunting for life | $301.50 |
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Non-Resident | $47 |
| 7-Day Non-Resident | $30 |
| 3-Day Non-Resident | $17 |
Additional Stamps & Permits
| Stamp | Price | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Snook Permit Required for snook fishing — $10 | $10 | Optional |
| Lobster Permit Required for spiny lobster — included in Gold Sportsman | $5 | Optional |
| Tarpon Tag Required to harvest tarpon — $51.50, tax collector only | $51.50 | Optional |
📍 Where to Buy
Explore all Florida purchase options →📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days
Free Fishing Days 2026
Apr
4
Jun
6
Jun
7
Sep
5
Oct
10
Nov
28
License Validity
👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions
👶
Under 16 Exemption
👴
Free License for Seniors (65+)
📍
Shore-Based Saltwater Exemption
✅
Born Before June 1, 1942
🎖️
Active Duty Military
♿
Permanently Disabled
⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License
$50–$
500
misdemeanor
🔧 How to Get Your License
-
1
Visit the Official Portal
-
2
Select Your License Type
-
3
Complete Payment & Download