Miami’s angling paradise pulls fishermen from everywhere on the globe, anxious to pinpoint bonefish, allow, tarpon, and snook in the shallow, clear waters of Biscayne Bay and the Upper Keys. While this experience is fun, most first-time guests continue to wonder if a fishing license is required for inshore flats fishing.
Know the licensing rules before you go. This will keep you compliant with Florida regulations and avoid unnecessary fines. It will help preserve the delicate ecosystems that support these prized species. Read below to find out when you need a license, when it’s covered by your charter, and how to stay prepared for a smooth, enjoyable flats fishing experience in Miami.
It is generally true that fishing licenses are required for all anglers, both resident and non-resident, regardless of whether they fish from shore or a vessel. However, an important consideration is that many licenses have exemptions as well as specific conditions pertaining to them.
Anyone aged 16 and older must possess a valid fishing license when engaging in recreational fishing activities.
Exemptions: Certain individuals are exempt from the fishing license requirement, including:
1. Children under 16 years of age.
2. Florida residents 65 years of age or older who carry proof of age and residency.
3. Florida military personnel home on leave for 30 days or less.
4. Anyone fishing from a licensed fishing pier or on a vessel that has a valid charter boat license.
5. Those using a pole or line, without the use of any fishing-line retrieval mechanism, such as a cane pole or Cuban yoyo, in their county of residence.
Before anglers cast their lines into the inviting waters around Miami’s flats, they should first familiarize themselves with the various types of fishing licenses that Florida offers. Licenses can be required based on whether fish are caught in saltwater or freshwater, from shore or by boat, and whether one is a resident or visitor. The right license will keep you legal while supporting healthy fisheries.
All those who take or attempt to take any saltwater species must obtain a saltwater fishing license. This includes bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, redfish, crabs, and other marine life. Residents and non-residents of the state who are 16 years of age or older need this license if fishing from a vessel, on a dock, or on a shore where saltwater species are present.
For those coming to Miami for flats fishing, the saltwater license is a regular permit that should be acquired if you fish on your own rather than with a licensed charter guide. Permits can be bought on the internet, at local bait and tackle shops, or from county tax collectors.
A shoreline-only license may be obtained free of charge by all residents of Florida. The method covers fishing from land or any structure attached to the shore, for example, a pier. A full saltwater license will not be required.
It’s important to note that this license is not valid for fishing from a vessel or for areas accessible only by boat. This option is ideal for casual anglers who plan to fish along Miami’s shoreline rather than venturing out on a flats charter.
Combination licenses bundle different types of recreational permits, often combining saltwater fishing, freshwater fishing, and hunting licenses at a discounted rate. These are typically more relevant for Florida residents who enjoy multiple outdoor activities throughout the year.
For visitors focused solely on flats fishing in Miami, a combination license may not be necessary, but it provides flexibility for those who plan extended trips or multiple fishing excursions across different waters.
Even if you have a saltwater fishing license, certain species may require you to obtain extra permits. Some examples are:
Snook Permit: Needed to keep only one Snook per day during the open season.
Tarpon Tag: It is a must-have if you want to harvest a Tarpon legally. Without it, fishing for Tarpon is only allowed catch-and-release.
Spiny Lobster Permit: It is a must to have one when you are harvesting lobsters in state waters.
By buying these permits, you not only facilitate the conservation of nature but also make sure you are following the rules of fishing in Florida.
In Florida getting the right fishing license can be done easily and it will make sure that you are abiding with the state’s rules while having a nice and productive day of flats fishing. Both residents and non-residents can get a license, and there is a bunch of different ways to get one.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) puts at your disposal a user-friendly online portal, where you have the possibility to:
1. Indicate the kind of permit you are going to need either saltwater, shoreline-only, or combination.
2. Decide if you want to add any special permits for bonefish, snook, tarpon, or any other species that you are going to target.
3. Make your payment safely by using your credit or debit card.
4. Without delay, an electronic permit can be sent to you which you can either print out or keep safe on your mobile device.
Purchasing a license online normally the quickest and most comfortable way, primarily if they are visitors who have planned a trip to go flats fishing in Miami.
Florida residents have the opportunity to get licenses locally in the office of county tax collectors. The workers at the office can provide assistance in determining the type of license that matches best your fishing activities and also help in any questions related to obtaining special permits.
Bait shops, tackle stores, and sporting goods retailers in Miami are authorized to do provide license. It is good for you if you are going to buy some gear or bait for your flats fishing charter. Normally, retailers can assist you by providing up-to-date information on regulations and requirements for your target species.
For anglers booking a guided flats fishing trip, such as with Miami Flats Fishing Guide, a personal license is often not required. Licensed captains like Capt. Raul Montoro covers the required permits under the charter license, simplifying the process for visitors. Guests can focus on fishing and enjoying the flats without worrying about state paperwork.
Worried about fishing licenses for your inshore flats adventure in Miami? With Shallow Tails Guide Service, you don’t have to be. Captain Raul Montoro holds all the necessary permits and licenses, so guests can focus entirely on chasing bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, and redfish in the stunning waters of Biscayne Bay, the Upper Keys, and Flamingo.
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No. A licensed charter captain will provide the necessary permits for the guests. So usually, on guided trips, you do not need to have personal licenses.
Yes. Kids below 16 years of age and some senior residents may be exempted from the requirement of a license. Always confirm with Florida Fish and Wildlife regulations prior to your trip.
Yes, but if you are fishing independently from a vessel or shore, you must have a saltwater fishing license. This applies to the fishing of flats species like bonefish, tarpon, or snook.
Yes. For example, a snook, tarpon, or spiny lobster area may need a special permit even if you have a standard saltwater license. Your charter captain can help you with these requirements.
Fishing licenses can be purchased online, at local bait and tackle shops, or at county tax collector offices. Online purchase is fastest for visiting anglers.
