Looking for something to do this Labor Day weekend?
Get out on the water and experience some of Florida’s finest fishing. Saltwater recreational anglers can fish without a recreational fishing license on Sept. 1 as part of the state’s license-free fishing days.
“Florida’s license-free fishing days are an excellent opportunity to share the fun, excitement and togetherness of a fishing trip with the entire family. This also is a great time for experienced anglers to introduce friends to the sport, even if they don’t have a fishing license,” said Nick Wiley, executive director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
“We hope Florida residents and visitors will experience the joy of saltwater fishing. We expect many will discover a healthy sport they can enjoy for a lifetime.”
Gag grouper is open for harvest in most state and all federal waters in the Gulf and Atlantic. For those looking to get in the water, bay scallop and spiny lobster seasons are in full swing. Want to stick a little closer to shore? Try your hand at near-shore species such as spotted seatrout or red drum.
Have questions? The FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management will have staff working dockside at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge in Wakulla County and at the Cedar Key Public Pier and Marina from about 7 a.m. through midday. Staff will provide the public with fisheries publications such as Saltwater Regulations and Fishing Lines magazines and will be there to talk to the public and answer questions.
Fishing is a family-fun and wholesome form of entertainment, which is why the FWC offers four license-free fishing days each year. This year’s freshwater license-free fishing days were April 7 and June 9, and the first saltwater day was June 2.
Come out and learn how the state’s abundant resources, coupled with responsible saltwater and freshwater fish management, make Florida the “Fishing Capital of the World.”
All other bag limit, season and size restrictions apply on these dates.
To make your fishing day successful, check out MyFWC.com/Fishing for fishing tips, locations and rules.