License-free fishing days ahead
June 5, 2026 at 1:09 PM CDT
Coming up this weekend and next, anglers in Florida looking to get outside can catch their dinner at no cost by taking advantage of two license-free fishing weekends.
On Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7, no license will be required to go saltwater fishing.
The saltwater waiver applies to any recreational harvest requiring a saltwater fishing license and includes fishing from shore or a boat. A snook or spiny lobster permit is also not required on these days.
The following weekend, June 13 and 14, people can go freshwater fishing without a license.
Both Florida residents and visitors can take part in the license-free weekends, as long as they follow the normal size and bag limit restrictions.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Chris Boley says free fishing weekends are a way to introduce the sport to new anglers.
“If you have a friend or family member that wants to go fishing with you, but they’re not sure if they want to buy a license or if they’ll enjoy it, it’s a great opportunity to get out there and have some fun.”
For those who enjoy their free fishing experience, an annual license for fresh or saltwater fishing costs $17 each for residents and $47 for non-residents.
All other FWC rules and regulations still apply.
On Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7, no license will be required to go saltwater fishing.
The saltwater waiver applies to any recreational harvest requiring a saltwater fishing license and includes fishing from shore or a boat. A snook or spiny lobster permit is also not required on these days.
The following weekend, June 13 and 14, people can go freshwater fishing without a license.
Both Florida residents and visitors can take part in the license-free weekends, as long as they follow the normal size and bag limit restrictions.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Chris Boley says free fishing weekends are a way to introduce the sport to new anglers.
“If you have a friend or family member that wants to go fishing with you, but they’re not sure if they want to buy a license or if they’ll enjoy it, it’s a great opportunity to get out there and have some fun.”
For those who enjoy their free fishing experience, an annual license for fresh or saltwater fishing costs $17 each for residents and $47 for non-residents.
All other FWC rules and regulations still apply.