License-Free Fishing Weekend Arrives In Florida

TALLAHASSEE, FL — Floridians who want to spend the upcoming weekend relaxing on freshwater, casting a line, can do so without a license. The state is playing host to its semi-annual Freshwater License-Free Fishing Days on Saturday and Sunday.

The April 1-2 event is part of an ongoing series of license-free fishing days meant to help Floridians and visitors experience the state’s recreational areas without having to invest in credentials. Those who cast lines, however, need to remember that while licenses aren’t needed for fresh water areas, some rules still do apply. Bag limits, seasons and size limits remain in force.

“This weekend’s license-free fishing days are a great chance for families and visitors to enjoy the spring weather and experience the many fishing sites Florida is well known for,” Gov. Rick Scott said in announcing the two-day promotion. “Florida is proud to be the Fishing Capital of the World, and I encourage everyone to take advantage of the license-free days this weekend.”

The National Weather Service says the weekend should be a great one for folks interested in snagging a few fish. Sunshine and blue skies are expected from Tampa to Miami on Saturday and Sunday ahead of a cold front that might shake things up in some parts of the state early next week.

For folks who can’t make it out to take advantage of this weekend’s license-free days, the wait for a return won’t be long. The next round of freshwater fishing, sans license requirements, takes place the second Saturday and Sunday in June. The first Saturday and Sunday of June are set aside for the first saltwater license-free fishing days of 2017.

To find out more about fishing regulations in the Sunshine State, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission online.

Photo courtesy of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission