NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

April 30, 1998

CONTACT: Bob Wattendorf (850) 488-0520

FWC HAS FISHING LICENSE DEAL FOR FATHER'S DAY

Looking for a unique gift for Dad on Father's Day? Well, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has a gift that lets Dad freshwater fish for five years. He also gets a lot of free fishing tackle and stuff.

During May, anyone who purchases a 5-year freshwater fishing license ($61.50) will receive a bonus package with product samples and magazines worth in excess of $50. In addition, the package will include special deals and rebate offers worth hundreds of dollars. In effect, you get five years' worth of freshwater fishing, virtually free.

"The package consists primarily of high-quality lures, hooks and magazines," said Bob Wattendorf of the FWC's Division of Freshwater Fisheries. "The rebate coupons and discount certificates are good for saving money on memberships, fishing tackle, boats and sunglasses from major manufacturers."

The promotion is good for licenses bought through county tax collectors' offices or by calling 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA (347-4356). There is a $3.95 charge, plus the state's fee for licenses, for using the toll-free telephone number.

Wattendorf said you must order your 5-year license by May 31 to take advantage of this offer. If your current fishing license doesn't expire before the end of May you can delay activating your new 5-year license for up to two months.

Within a month, you will receive, by mail, a permanent credit-card type license along with the bonus package. In the meantime, you will be able to begin fishing immediately after ordering a license. For more information on the license promotion see the FWC's home page at http://www.state.fl.us/FWC/fishing.