Free Freshwater Fishing in Florida

NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

March 19, 2002
CONTACT: Bob Wattendorf (850) 488-0331

FLORIDA OFFERS FREE FRESHWATER FISHING IN APRIL

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has designated April 6-7 as Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend in Florida, the Fishing Capital of the World.

During the Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend, anyone, including non-residents, can sport-fish in any public freshwater lake or river in Florida without a fishing license. The Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend does not apply to anglers fishing in saltwater.

"The annual event provides anglers an opportunity to experience Florida's extraordinary fisheries," Ed Moyer, director of the FWC’s Division of Freshwater Fisheries, said. "It also can serve as a reminder to those who haven't been fishing in a while that it is a healthy, fun, outdoor experience."

During the free fishing period, all other fishing laws and regulations will remain in effect. A copy of the Florida Freshwater Sport Fishing Guide and Regulations Summary is available at no cost from any fishing license vendor or FWC office.

“The FWC is proud of our state’s fishing heritage and designation as Fishing Capital of the World,” Moyer said. “We want residents and visitors to enjoy our bountiful and well-managed fisheries during this free fishing period.”
The FWC will host a number of free fishing events statewide. These events are tailored to the novice angler and to families. Many events include free bait, some loaner fishing rods, refreshments and basic training to get new anglers started.

“If, after trying it out, you decide, like millions of others, that fishing is a great way to relax, reconnect with family and friends and enjoy yourself, now is a great time to buy a 5-year resident freshwater fishing license,” said Bob Wattendorf, Division of Freshwater Fisheries marketing coordinator.

Five-year licenses are available at county tax collector’s offices for $61.50 (or online at eAngler.com for an extra $1.95 convenience fee, or via the FWC’s toll free line at 1-888-FISH-FLOrida for an extra $3.95 convenience fee). Anglers who puchase 5-year fishing licenses during April and May 2002, will receive a free bonus package of more than $60 worth of lures, hooks, fishing line, magazines and other fishing premiums from the FWC’s corporate sponsors.

For information about local fishing opportunities, interested persons can contact the nearest regional office of the FWC or visit the Freshwater Fisheries Web site at www.floridafisheries.org for up-to-date fishing regulations and Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend information (see the Events Schedule).

Take Me Fishing.org is a great general information site for recreational anglers and boaters.

Florida Fishing Capital of the World--Great Resources, Responsible Management