NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

April 24, 2000

CONTACT: Bob Wattendorf (850) 488-0331

ACT NOW--FWC FIVE-YEAR FISHING LICENSE BONUS ENDS SOON

April 30 is the last day to purchase a 5-year freshwater fishing license and receive a bonus package of free lures, magazines and other goodies from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Purchasers of a 5-year freshwater fishing license will receive a bonus package with product samples and magazines valued at more than $40. The bonus pack includes lures from Berkley, Culprit and Phantom tackle, Xpoint hooks, bait hooks, a boater's keychain, mouse pad, several magazines as well as coupons and special offers from various sponsors.

Buying a five-year license offers several advantages besides a $6 savings in administrative fees. First, the license is a plastic card instead of paper. Second, you get an automatic reminder when your license is about to expire. Third, you are protected against any license fee increases for the next five years. And finally, there is the convenience of not having to renew your license every year.

Five-year licenses are available at tax collectors' offices statewide for $61.50 or by calling 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA (347- 4356). A $3.95 surcharge is added for using the toll-free license line. If your license isn't expired yet, you can request an activation date as much as 60 days from the date of purchase, or you can make it active the moment you buy it.

"This is the last chance this year to get a great selection of free lures, magazines and other goodies as well as five years of fishing privileges for a fixed price," said FWC's Bob Wattendorf.

Purchasers of lifetime licenses and 5-year combination licenses that include freshwater fishing privileges are eligible for this promotion.

For more information about FWC's 5-year license promotion, including a complete list of sponsors visit its web site at http://FloridaFisheries.com.