Florida's fishing regulations start with the fishing license and go into bag limits and size regulations based on each type of fish. If you plan to fish in Florida this year, you need to understand the regulations for the type of fish you might catch.
Florida Fishing Licenses
Licenses for fishing in the State of Florida come in many types including both freshwater and saltwater. Licenses are also available for adults and for youth (valid until the 17th birthday). Licenses are also available for residents and non-residents.
Along with the basic fishing licenses, you may also need a specific permit for certain types of fishing, such as snook, spiny lobster, and tarpon. There are also new regulations for shark and crab trap.
If you plan to do both freshwater and saltwater fishing, you can purchase an annual combination license. It's even possible to get a combination license including hunting or even one including a number of licenses known as the Gold Sportsman's License.
Lifetime licenses are also available for those looking to spend many years in Florida fishing.
New Regulations for Shore-Based Shark Fishing
As of July 1, 2019, many new regulations were put in place for shore-based shark fishing. You will need a permit in specific circumstances and adult anglers must take an online educational class on shore-based shark fishing.
For a full list of the new shore-based shark fishing regulations, you can visit the official Florida Saltwater Fishing Regulations site here.
Sizes and Limits
The most important thing to pay attention to when fishing in Florida is the size of the fish and the quantity you're allowed to catch. The size and limits will vary from one type of fish to another. The type of fish may also determine the ways you can catch the fish, along with how to measure the fish.
Make sure you understand the size and bag limits for the fish you plan to catch. In addition, you will need to understand the season in which you can fish for and catch specific types of fish.
Let's look at a few examples:
Black Grouper - Atlantic and Gulf Black Grouper have to be at least 24 inches long and only one Atlantic Black Grouper can be harvested per day, while four Gulf Black grouper can be harvested per day. Gulf Black Grouper can be harvested year-round, while Atlantic Black Grouper cannot be harvested from January 1 to April 30.
Great Barracuda - Must be at least 15 inches long, but no more than 36 inches long. The daily limit is 2 per person or 6 per vessel and each vessel may possess one over 36 inches long. The limits on Great Barracuda only apply to specific counties in Florida.
Bluefish - Must have a 12 inch or greater fork with a daily harvest limit of 10 per day.
Knowing the weight, length, and other limits for the type of fish you may catch matters. If you're found in violation of any fish and wildlife regulations, you will be penalized as follows:
First offense - $50 plus the cost of the license or permit
Second offense - $250 plus the cost of the license or permit
Third offense - $250 penalty
If you commit a level two violation, you may be charged with a misdemeanor with higher fines and jail time.
The easiest and best way to ensure you don't violate any Florida fishing regulations is to ensure you get the right license and permit. Also, make sure you understand the limits and seasons for the type of fish you plan to catch.
The Jax Boat Club Florida Saltwater Fishing Regulations, Bag Limits & Seasons guide will help you avoid breaking any regulations. You can download it here.