Freshwater Fishing Regulations
Harvest of Shoal Bass Temporarily Suspended
FWC issued an executive order on June 5, 2019, suspending the harvest and possession of shoal bass from the Chipola River and its tributaries effective immediately until the order is repealed. Anglers are still permitted to catch and immediately release shoal bass. View the news release for additional information.
New regulations effective July 1, 2019
The 2019-2020 summary of Florida's freshwater fishing rules and regulations is available:
- E-Regulations online or
- Complete printable version (12 MB) or
- Select items from the table of contents below.
Other regulatory resources include:
- Complete official rules can be found in the Wildlife Code online (see Chapter 68)
- Florida Statutes (for freshwater fishing see Chapter 379, F.S.)
- The Florida Constitution (FWC Article IV, Section 9)
- Commercial Freshwater Fishing Regulations
Table of Contents
Introduction
New Rule Changes
Feature Article - Conservation Highlights from FWC
Fishing Tips from the Pros
Fishing License Requirements and Fees
Do I Need a License?
Methods of Taking Fish
Methods of Taking Bait
Release/Movement of Fish
Taking and Possession of Freshwater Mussels
General Statewide Bag and Length Limits
Special Bag and Length Limits
Fish Management Areas
Regional Map
Northwest
North Central
Northeast
Southwest
South
FAQ