Types of Fish

• Freshwater enthusiasts can find a large number of fish to catch in Florida, but by far the most popular type is bass. Several lakes, including Lake George and Crescent Lake, feature a wide variety of different kinds of bass; striped, spotted, white and Suwannee are just a few. If you're not interested in bass, there are many other freshwater species to choose from, like bluegill and catfish. Snapper and porgy are two of the most varied saltwater species you'll find living off the Florida coast, but mackerel and tuna are also plentiful.
  
  

Licenses

• Residents of Florida can purchase an annual freshwater or saltwater license, with the option of purchasing a five-year license. An annual freshwater/saltwater combination license is also available; residents 64 and older can purchase this license at a reduced fee, after proving they have lived in Florida for at least one year. Non-residents don't have the option of purchasing a combination and must buy separate freshwater and saltwater licenses. If you don't want to purchase an annual license, a three-day and seven-day license are your other options. If you plan to catch saltwater fish from the shore or a shore-based structure like a pier, you need to buy a separate shoreline license in addition to a fishing license. Snook and lobster permits are also available for an extra fee.
  
  

Endangered Fish

• Three species that live in Florida waters are on the endangered species list: the Okaloosa darter, shortnose sturgeon and blackmouth shiner. If you happen to catch one of these fish, you are required to release it unharmed or face a fine.
  
  

Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend

• The first weekend of April every year is set aside to celebrate Florida's "Free Freshwater Fishing Weekend," during which residents of the state and visitors can fish without a license. Many Florida towns turn this weekend into a community event, inviting families to take part and offering many activities in addition to fishing.
  
  

Kids' Clinics

• Throughout the year, various kids' clinics are offered in different locations across the state (see Resources for a link). These one-day programs are designed to acquaint children with the art of saltwater fishing, while teaching them the importance of the Florida marine ecosystem. The children proceed through stations throughout the day, learning casting techniques, fishing tackle, knot tying and ethical fishing practices.