Saltwater Fishing Licenses

Since January 1, 1990, a valid Florida Saltwater Fishing License has been required in the State of Florida for residents and non-residents. The resident license is valid for 12 months from the from the day you activate the license and costs $17.00. There is an option to purchase a Five Year License or a Resident Lifetime License. Non-residents may visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for information regarding short-term licenses.

A Saltwater Fishing License is not required if you are: A resident fishing in saltwater from land or a structure fixed to land. Fishing from a vessel if the operator holds a valid saltwater vessel license. A resident and a member of U.S. Armed Forces at home on leave for 30 days or less. A person who has been accepted by the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services for Development Services. An individual fishing from a licensed pier. A Saltwater License may be issued, without license fee, to any resident who is certified by a Florida Licensed physician, by any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, or by the Veterans Administration to be totally and permanently disabled or who holds a valid identification card issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

No person may operate any vessel wherein a fee is paid either directly or indirectly for the purpose of saltwater fishing for non-commercial purposes unless a captain's license and a vessel license have been obtained. The license is based on the number of customers the vessel will carry.

Saltwater fishing licenses may be purchased at any Duval County Tax Collector's office. Resident licenses may also be purchased at any of our many subagent locations. Please call for information regarding the subagent nearest you.

If you have any questions regarding saltwater licenses that are not addressed here, you may select the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission home page or call (386) 758-0525.