Florida offering license-free fishing: Sat. and Sun., April 3-4, 2021
FWC photo by Tim Donovan of angler fishing in Lake Talquin in northwest Florida's Gadsden County.
Try your hand at freshwater fishing the weekend of Saturday, April. 3 and Sunday, April 4, without needing a freshwater fishing license. 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. Another freshwater license-free fishing weekend will be held on June 12 and 13, 2021.
“The first freshwater license-free fishing weekend of the year is an excellent opportunity to introduce someone to fishing for the first time,” said Tom Graef, Director of the FWC's Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management. “Spend this weekend with family and friends enjoying the Fishing Capital of the World as you fish from a boat or shore.”
All other rules, such as seasons, bag and size limits apply. To learn more, visit MyFWC.com/License. To renew or purchase a fishing license, visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
Check out recognition program TrophyCatch at TrophyCatchFlorida.com and submit your 8-pound and greater largemouth bass to win prizes.
“Florida has long been known as the Fishing Capital of the World and Florida fishing helps to support many industries that impact the state's economy, including retail, research and tourism,” said FWC Commissioner Gary Lester. “Now is the time to get out on the water and an even better time to introduce someone you know to fishing – all you need is a rod and a reel!”
For general waterbody information, fishing forecasts, virtual tours, plant control operation schedules and annual workplans, boat ramp information, and more, visit the “What’s Happening on My Lake” website at MyFWC.com/Lake.
For more information about the Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management, contact Laura Rambo Walthall by phone at 850-488-0520 or by email at Laura.Walthall@MyFWC.com.