Florida Freshwater Fishing Licenses Waived This Weekend

TALLAHASSEE, FL — Florida Gov. Rick Scott announced that Saturday June 9 and Sunday June 10 will be license-free freshwater fishing days — not only for the state's nearly 20 million residents, but for the many tourists who are visiting the Sunshine State. Scott issued a similar declaration for saltwater fishing last Saturday and Sunday.

“Florida is known as the fishing capital of the world, and taking advantage of these license-free fishing weekends is the perfect opportunity for Floridians and their families to get outdoors," the governor said in announcing the freebies.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers eight license-free fishing days each year.

While residents will be able to catch freshwater fish without a freshwater recreational fishing license this weekend, they will still be expected to comply with bag limits, seasons and size restrictions. The same held true for last week's saltwater weekend.

“Summertime in the Sunshine State is great for getting on or near the water," added Bo Rivard, who chairs the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "Established anglers, I encourage you to take a friend or family member out and introduce them to the fishing capital of the world."

To learn more about license-free fishing days, visit MyFWC.com/License. For fishing tips, locations and other information visit MyFWC.com/Fishing.

Photo courtesy the Tipka family.