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It’s license-free freshwater fishing weekend in Florida

Opportunity to try fishing in saltwater without needing a license

Fishing

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – No fishing license, no worries -- at least for this weekend.

Try your hand at freshwater fishing Saturday, June 12, and Sunday, June 13, without needing a saltwater fishing license.

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License-free fishing days are a great way for Florida residents and visitors to get out on the water and find out why Florida is known as the Fishing Capital of the World.

This day is part of eight total license-free fishing days the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) offers each year. All bag limits, closed areas and size restrictions apply on these dates. To learn more, click here. For fishing regulations and tips, click here. To renew or purchase a fishing license, visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

License-free fishing days provide an excellent opportunity for those who don't yet have a fishing license to experience fishing, take youth fishing, or for avid anglers to introduce a friend to fishing without having to purchase a license. On these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for all recreational anglers, including both residents and non-residents.

All other rules such as seasons, bag and size limits apply.

License-free freshwater days

  • June 12 and 13 (Second consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June)

License-free saltwater days

  • June 5 and June 6 (First consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June)
  • Sept. 4 (First Saturday in September)
  • Nov. 27 (Saturday following Thanksgiving)

The saltwater waiver applies to any recreational harvest requiring a saltwater fishing license (e.g., crabbing, lobstering, scalloping, etc.) as well as fishing from shore or a boat.

A snook or spiny lobster permit is also not required on these days.