All rights reserved. Anglers are subject to fines for fishing and conservation violations. There is no established weight restriction or bag limit for whiting in Florida. Deployment of bottom-tending gear (bottom longline, bottom trawl, buoy gear, dredge, pot or trap) and bottom anchoring by fishing vessels is prohibited year-round. Saltwater fishing licenses can be obtained online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, at county tax collectors offices and license agents, or by calling toll-free 888-FISH-FLORIDA (347- 4356). You can learn more about visitors licenses from the FWC. Guides must comply with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements. For-Hire Fishing Permits in the Gulf of Mexico All Recreational Anglers need a saltwater recreational fishing license or registration from a state or U.S. territory except Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands. "With the abundant opportunities to recreate on the water in Florida, the state plays an important role within NASBLA," said . Fishing in a forest? Florida fishing regulations change continually to keep up with the pressure of fishing from recreational and commercial fishermen. The R3 initiative helps create the next generation of anglers who have a vested interest in conserving and managing Floridas natural resources. Non-resident annual, 5-day and 3-day passes are also available. Sitemap, Complete Guide to Florida Fishing in 2022. We saw it in the way you contributed to conservation efforts like Sport Fish Restoration, a national user-pay, public-benefit program that supports the creation of artificial reefs, boat ramps, educational programs, research and more through funds gathered when anglers purchase tackle, fishing licenses and motorboat fuel. are a top choice in Southwest Florida. This means that packing for a fishing vacation is simple. With so much fishable water, Florida just might be the fishing capital of the world. For the full text regulations, contact the Sanctuary office at 409-621-5151 or visithttps://flowergarden.noaa.gov. https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/atlantic-highly-migratory-species/atlantic-highly-migratory-species-fishery-compliance-guides, Recreational Fishing Regulations Calendar, Federal Fishing Regulations are not always the same as. Common varieties include Oscar, Black Acara, and the Butterfly Peacock Bass mentioned above. If youre looking to catch a great dinner, consider angling for Gag Groupers. Residents can pay $17 for an annual freshwater license. Handling fees apply for telephone and Internet sales. You can contact the FWC by email atmyfwc.com/contact/, or by telephone at 850-488-4676. Keep in mind that a charter includes all the licenses, bait, and equipment you need for a great day of fishing, as well as expert guidance from an experienced captain. Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, For information on fish consumption advisories, visit the. For example, you may possess 1 fish over 19 inches per vessel. Atlantic Daily Limit: 1 person, (open season May-Oct, Atlantic Daily Possession Limit: 2 per person (excludes Monroe County), Gulf Daily Possession Limit: 3 per person (includes Monroe County), State Daily Possession Limit: 15 per person, State Daily Possession Limit: 1 per person for Billfish aggregate bag limit, Daily Limit: 50; 100 per vessel Feb Aug; 50 per vessel Sept Jan, Special Permit Zone Daily Limit: 1; 2 daily vessel limit, Special Permit Zone Min Length: 22-inch fork length, State Daily Limit: 2 per angler; 2 per vessel total, Line and hook gear, cast net and beach, or haul seine ONLY, spearing prohibited, State Daily Limit: 1 for Billfish aggregate bag limit. The following list includes all bag limits and minimum sizes. They are commonly caught by bass anglers. It all boils down to your personal preferences and what you most enjoy about being on the water. All you have to do is catch the fish and pick the side dishes. You can catch fish per day or 2 per vessel. The state record is 19 lbs. NOTE: Federally permitted for-hire reef fish vessels must comply with the more restrictive of federal or state reef fish regulations when fishing for reef fish in state waters. Fishing with a bottom longline, bottom trawl, dredge, pot, or trap is prohibited year round. Report injured, orphaned or dead manatees, Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network, See a full list of our Social Media accounts. And if you don't know the rules, you might end up breaking them, which could mean a fine or, in extreme cases, imprisonment. You need the right information to plan your next fishing adventure and thats where this complete guide will come in handy. None, but white shrimp taken in the EEZ and transported to Louisiana must comply with minimum size limit of that state. Several commonly caught species do not have any special rules or limits, such as: Although there are no legal restrictions on equipment, some norms still apply as well. As I reflect on the past year as Chairman of the Commission that is responsible for managing and protecting fish and wildlife, I am proud of all our staff who continue to work hard every day to provide residents and visitors numerous opportunities to enjoy Floridas outdoors. Information at MyFWC.com/ADA. Port Sanibel Marina has a fleet of fishing boats available for rent, as well as charter services with guides ready to take you out to sea. Here is a list of the Texas saltwater fish limits that include the 30 most popular game fish, Read More Texas Saltwater Fish Limits [2023]: Top 30 Game FishContinue, This guide explains the size limits for freshwater fish in Texas, how to measure a fishs length, and answers to frequently asked questions so you can be fully prepared for your next fishing trip. Youll find them in South Florida and all the way down to the Bahamas. This free license allows you to fish in both fresh and saltwater and pursue a game. The waters are generally calm and flat, which means great conditions for casting off and reeling in your next great catch. Learn More at NOAA These fish love to hide, so they can be tricky to catch. Since youll be spending time outside, you might need a few outdoor essentials like bug spray. This kind of license covers all fishing in lakes, streams, rivers, ponds, and other bodies of fresh water in Florida. This allows unlicensed anglers to cast off in saltwater without a state fishing license in public bodies of water. All persons on board a boat harvesting reef fish using natural baits must utilize non-stainless steel non-offset circle hooks. Reef fish gear is limited to no more than 3 hooks in a special management zone off Alabama. Were here to ensure that you end up in the right place, at the right time, and with all the right information at no additional cost to you. Disclaimer: These regulations are prepared for general purposes and have no legal force or effect. Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear())2021 VISIT FLORIDA. Other bait choices when fishing in Floridas salt waters can include shiners and sand fleas. These big fish can be caught in Gulf and Atlantic waters in the spring months, usually between March and June. Soft plastic jigs are good artificial bait.. These fluctuations attract all kinds of fish. as well as charter services with guides ready to take you out to sea. Things to take on a fishing vacation include: Southwest Florida is a true destination for Florida fishing. Otherwise, it's crucial to note that snook fishing in Florida is purely recreational since no commercial catch or sale of snook is permitted. Learn more in ourCookie Noticeand ourPrivacy Policy. Florida fishing is among the best in the world thanks to a number of factors. Dont worry, weve got you covered! 1000 pounds GW. With hundreds of species of fish to catch, casting off in Florida is a great idea for locals and visitors alike. There are about two dozen species of Cichlids in Florida freshwaters. The panhandle, Gulf Coast, and Atlantic Coast are full of beaches and piers perfect for. Lets look at the differences between each type of license. You can catch these big, powerful fish in Southwest Floridas Gulf waters from mid-March until mid-June, according to Miner. 653,184 pounds mixed weight, Northern Zone: Even with all the important items covered, there are still a few things you should know before booking a charter. Florida resident accepted as a client for developmental disabilities services by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, with agency proof thereof. This material is for recreational fishing use only and does not apply to commercial or guided fishing.Table of ContentsFlorida Saltwater Fish Limit DefinitionsReef Fishing RegulationsGulf Of MexicoAtlantic OceanAll Prohibited Fish SpeciesAll Unregulated Fish SpeciesFlorida Game Fish List And The Minimum Size LimitRelated Articles2023 Recreational Aggegate Bag Limits By SpeciesAmberjack, Greater (Greater Amberjack)Amberjack, Lesser & Banded RudderfishBarracuda, GreatBlue RunnerBluefishBonefishCobia (Ling)Dolphinfish (Mahi-Mahi)Drum, Black (Black Drum)Drum, Red (Red Fish, Bull Red)Flounder2023 Combined RecreationalGrouper Aggregate BagGrouper, BlackGroup, GagGrouper, RedGrouper, ScampGrouper, SnowyGrouper, Warsaw / Speckled HindGrouper, Yellowfin / YellowmouthGrouper, Coney / Graysby / Misty / Red Hind / Rock Hind / Snowy / YellowedgeHogfishMackerel, King (King Mackerel )Mackerel, Spanish (Spanish Mackerel)Marlin, BlueMarlin, WhiteMullet, Striped / Black & SilverPermitPompano, AfricanPompano, Florida (Florida Pompano)Red PorgySailfishSea Bass, BlackSeatrout, Spotted (Speckled Trout)Shark, Atlantic Sharpnose, Blacknose, Blacktip, BonnetheadShark, Blue, Bull, Common Thresher, Nurse, Oceanic Whitetip, Porgeagle, SpinnerShark, Shortfin MakoSheepshead2023 Combined Recreational Snapper Aggregate BagSnapper, Black, Blackfin, Queen, Silk, WenchmanSnapper, CuberaSnapper, Gray (Mangrove)Snapper, Lane (Lane Snapper)Snapper, MuttonSnapper, Red (Red Snapper)Snapper, SchoolmasterSnapper, VermilionSnapper, Yellowtail, Dog, MahoganySnookSpearfish, RoundscaleSwordfishTarponTilefish, BluelineTilefish, GoldenTripletailTriggerfish, GrayTuna, BlackfinWahooWeakfishWhy Do We Have a Limit of How Much Fish We Can Catch Each Day?Saltwater Fishing License InformationFlorida Saltwater License Prices (2022)Florida Fishing License Order InformationTake Advantage Of License-Free Fishing DaysLicense Free Fish Days CalendarGet The Fishing Rules AppFrequently Asked QuestionsWhat Is The Florida Redfish Size Limit?What Is The Speckled Trout Size Limit For Florida?What Is The Snook Limit For Florida?What Is The Black Drum Limit For Florida?What Is The Florida Flounder Limit?What Is The Sheepshead Limit In Florida?What Is The Red Snapper Limit For Florida?What Is The Bluefish Limit In Florida?What Is The King Mackerel Limit In Florida?What Is The Spanish Mackerel Limit In Florida?What Is The Pompano Limit In Florida?What Is The Ladyfish Limit In Florida?What Is The Whiting Limit In Florida?What Is The Lane Snapper Limit In Florida?What Is The Mangrove Snapper Limit For Florida?What Is The Vermilion Limit For Florida?What Is The Yellowtail Snapper Limit For Florida?Conclusion. Saltwater Fishing. The red drum must be between 18 and 27-inches for harvest. Heading out on an off-shore fishing charter? Charter Boat and Charter Captain licenses are available and required to carry paying customers (where a fee is paid directly or indirectly) to take, attempt to take, or possess saltwater fish or organisms. Visit the National Saltwater Angler Registry to ensure you are registered. What Is The Red Snapper Limit For Florida? Federal waters begin where state waters end and extend to the 200 mile limit of the Gulf of Mexico. A fishing charter is a boat excursion with a professional captain. Southwest Florida is a great place to catch Tarpon. Fish, fish parts, chumming materials or bait used in or resulting from fishing with conventional hook and line gear in the sanctuary. It's that time of year again when Florida's saltwater fishing regulations for the upcoming season are released! Royal Shell vacation rentals are a top choice in Southwest Florida. Fifteen other common Florida fishes include: With so many fish to catch, you might be excited about casting off now. Anglers are estimated to contribute more than four billion dollars annually directly to the states coffers, which has a $7.5 billion economic impact, making fishing a blockbuster earner. Anyone commercially fishing for tilefish must possess IFQ allocation and follow established protocols. We have the list of prohibited species conveniently listed here for you. Learn more about fishing charters at Port Sanibel Marina. Federally Permitted For-Hire Reef Fish Vessels, Care and Release of Incidental Catch of Smalltooth Sawfish and Sea Turtles, Persons on Commercial, For-hire, and Private Recreational Vessels. Only 1 fish can be gag or black Gulf - 4 per harvester* Grouper, Scamp - s u l Minimum Size Limits: Atlantic - 20" Gulf - 16" Season: Atlantic - Closed Jan. 1-April 30 Gulf - Open year-round Daily Recreational Bag Limit: Atlantic - 3 per harvester Gulf - 4 per harvester Grouper, Snowy - s l Learn more about boating and fishing in Floridas lightning. You want to target speckled trout and redfish and are unsure of the size limits or how many you can keep. Red Snapper is managed under an IFQ program. They thrive in both brackish and saltwater, which means youll find them off the coast, too. While there is no size minimum for tarpon fishing in Florida, there is a maximum. Who is Exempt from Florida Fishing License? Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council 4107 West Spruce Street, Suite 200 Tampa, Florida 33607 USA P: 813-348-1630 888-833-1844 F: 813-348-1711 Disclaimer, Copyright 2023, Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, Managing fishery resources in the U.S. federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Scientific & Statistical Committee Meetings. Snappers Groupers Other Reef Fish Coastal Migratory Pelagics Shellfish Other Coral Highly Migratory Species. Wednesday, January 5, 2022 - 13:00. spear guns, nets) except by use of conventional hook and line gear. For more information seeFloridas R3 Fishing Action Plan. There are no states with reciprocal licenses. For information on fish consumption advisories, visit the Florida Fish Advisories Webpage. In return, almost four million people who fish in Florida enjoy some of the most spectacular recreational fishing opportunities in the world year-round. These versatile tools come in handy in all kinds of situations. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Otherwise, it is important to know that snook fishing in Florida is purely recreational, as no commercial harvest or sale of snook is permitted. The annual fee is only $20. Final Rule | New England. Make a visit to Port Sanibel Marina to cast off and have fun. Reeling in a snook can be a challenge, as these fish are known to put up a fight. Florida has addional rules and regulations for freshwater fishing and for saltwater fishing, which you can check out here: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission strongly recommends that anglers planning to fish from boats be familiar with Floridas boating regulations. There are great places to fish across Florida. Offshore fishing trips can go out miles and miles, often into federal waters. Possessing within the Sanctuary (regardless of where collected), any coral or other bottom formation, coralline algae or other plant, or fish (except for fish caught by use of conventional hook and line gear). Possession limit: Unlimited. To get this license, you must first have your state-issued ID card. A state may regulate vessels that are registered in that state and fishing in federal waters for species for which there are no federal fishery management plans or applicable federal regulations, or for which the appropriate fishery management plan has delegated management of the state and the state rules are consistent with federal regulations. Federal Fishing Regulations FishRules is the best way to view fishing regulations from a mobile device. While they still need a license to fish in Florida, residents over in their golden years can obtain a 65+ hunting and fishing license for no cost. Some lakes are also considered trophy bass lakes and have special regulations. All you need to do is show up with sunscreen and snacks! Different regions of the state have different catch limits, so its wise to check local regulations before casting off for trout. Florida resident age 65 or older with proof of age and residency, such as a Florida drivers license or identification card. Have you ever considered fishing a date night activity? Freshwater or saltwater? Even if you plan to just catch and release fish, a license is still required. There are several alternatives for obtaining a saltwater fishing license in Florida. A powerhead may not be used in the stressed area to take Gulf reef fish. Its easy to get a fishing license in the Sunshine State. Or, if its just the two of you, you might opt for a cozy waterfront condo with breathtaking ocean views. This app gives real-time fishing regulations, bag limits, and minimum size limits for anglers who fish in saltwater or freshwater. The 100-pound general limit applies. In 2023, Saltwater Fishing License-free Days are: Before casting off in Florida, everyone needs a fishing license. There is no limit on the number of fish you can catch with these methods. While definitions can vary from angler to angler and charter to charter, the general rule of thumb is that inshore fishing is in water less than 30-meters deep. At night, and during the day, bow and arrows can be used to capture non-game fish. Non-stainless steel and non-offset circle hooks are required. The answer is simple: tarpon season. You do not need a license to fish in freshwater, but there are some exceptions. The annual fee is just $20. The Fish|Hunt FL app, available for both Apple and Android devices, lets you easily apply for and pay for a Florida fishing license from the palm of your hand. Injuring, catching, harvesting, collecting or feeding, or attempting to injure, catch, harvest, collect or feed, any fish within the sanctuary by use of any gear, device, equipment or means (e.g. Sharks come close to the shore, which means you might find them when fishing from a beach or pier. Fishing - Saltwater Regulations CONTACT US: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Fish and Wildlife Research Institute 100 Eighth Avenue SE St. Petersburg, Florida 33701 727-896-8626 MyFWC.com/BoatingGuides Boating_Guides@ MyFWC.com Mote Marine Laboratory Tropical Research Laboratory 24244 Overseas Hwy. The most up-to-date information is available from the FWC. Seniors can get a free license if they have valid Florida identification, such as a driver's license, to demonstrate their age and residency status. Believe it or not, the Ocala National Forest is home to some of the best river and lake fishing in Florida. Looking for a big catch? Look for it in the App Store and Google Play for iOS and Android. Why are early morning and evening hours best for fishing? Even though the boat captain on your fishing charter will provide all the right gear, a good multi-tool can be useful to have at the ready. Youll find flounder in brackish water and saltwater. There is a zero daily bag limit from October 16 November 30 due to the closed season. All it takes is a phone call or a visit to the on-site Ship Store if youre in Fort Myers. What are the Most Common Fish in Florida? The license you need depends on what type of angling activity you will be doing during your trip as well as if you want to target specific types. Booking a fishing charter through Port Sanibel Marina is an easy process. You need to be aware of Floridas fishing regulations before you cast off. The fish you can catch on an inshore trip also vary from those you can catch on an offshore chartered trip. Inshore fishing is popular in Sarasota as the city just south of Tampa Bay is home to a vast network of sandbars, flats, and seagrass meadows. The license you pick should correspond to your fishing goals and the fish you want to catch when casting off. With so many options for inshore and charters for offshore fishing, youll find the Fort Myers area a perfect place for your next angling adventure. So what do you need to know if you're planning on fishing for red snapper in 2022? This means that a Florida fishing license is required no matter where youre visiting from. It can only be used for fishing from the shoreline or a structure connected to the beach, like a pier. Keep reading for additional information about Floridas fishing regulations. How Do I Get a Fishing License in Florida? The license, tackler, rod, real, bait, and all other needs are included. Check out those fishing tips on how to get ready for your deep sea fishing charter! The FWC sets season limits, size limits, bag limits, and other regulations. March kicks off the freshwater fishing season in Florida, as Largemouth Bass start hitting their stride. 559,872 pounds mixed weight nishigandha wad education; dylan michael edmonds; florida porkfish regulations. Florida has a long and illustrious history as a fishing destination. Getting the Most Out of Your Florida Fishing Trips, 2023 A roller trawl may not be used in the stressed area. Colder months mean the water temperature can reach the low 60s, in warmer months it might reach 90 degrees. Enable Location Services to see site-specific regulations for your location. Seasons - If no seasonal information is provided, the species is open year-round. The region has many spring-fed bodies of water, making it perfect for catching all kinds of freshwater fish. Earn prizes, recognition and bragging rights while supporting marine fisheries conservation. Look for it in the App Store and Google Play for iOS and Android. Diversity in habitats and species, excellent weather for casting year-round, and a tourism-centered economy that encourages visitors from all over the country have contributed to making Florida a popular fishing destination. Enable Location Services to see site-specific regulations for your location. When concerns arise about a fishery, you took action and turned out for important issues at our workshops, Commission meetings, and on our online commenting portal at MyFWC.com/SaltwaterComments. Copyright 1999 - 2023 State of Florida. Includes the same licenses and permits as the Gold Sportsmans License. It's your only opportunity to fish off the coast of Florida without the necessary permits unless you hire a fishing charter. Learn more about fishing charters at Port Sanibel Marina. Learn more about Florida's recreational and commercial fishing license requirements. The Gulf Coast also experiences greater temperature changes than the Atlantic. Harvesting by diving in or from federal waters only off Broward, Dade, Monroe, Collier, and Lee Counties, Florida. We hear from anglers all the time about how important it is not only to be able to have access to fishing, but to have healthy and abundant fisheries. There is no established weight restriction or bag limit for ladyfish in Florida. While some anglers don't have to be licensed, all should know therules. Black Grouper are frisky fishes that commonly exceed 50 lbs. Rulemaking: Submit a Comment/Attend a Workshop, Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program, Support coral rescue, lionfish outreach & angler recognition. FLfishing regulations are designed to protect the states marine resources. Various factors contribute to making it one of the finest places to fish globally. visit the FWCs recreational fishing regulation page. Note:*subject to in-season closure if landings are projected to reach the quota, (See Species page for Gulf state regulations), (A 2023 temporary rule may shift the season to open Sept. 1 Nov. 10), Closed February March when fishing beyond 20 fathom break. Some of Port Sanibel Marinas charters even include lunch. Snook are known to put up a fight and are popular gamefish for this reason. Note: Whole fish (17 inches) or tails (11 inches) may be landed. Overview. As with fishing, some boats and operators must be licensed. As noted above, fish or more active when light is reduced. Its the only chance youll have all year to cast off without the proper permits unless you book a fishing charter. (c) South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Councils. Over the phone: Call 888-FISH-FLORIDA to get a Florida fishing license over the phone. Fishery Management. To obtain the free license, seniors need to show valid Florida identification, like a drivers license, to prove their age and residency status. If youre planning a fishing trip for all the boys, you might choose to rent one of their expansive vacation homes so everyone can get their own room and enjoy privacy. Tilefish are managed under an IFQ program. There are no states with reciprocal licenses. Minimum size: 17 inches. Youll also want to swap your lures for a scent-driven base, as the rain can make it harder for fish the see whats dangling off your hook in the water. This means that saltwater fishing might be best left for experienced anglers. The FWC sets season limits, size limits, bag limits, and other regulations. For a complete list of regulations by species, including other unregulated species. Snook are common gamefish around the Gulf Coast. NOTE: Areas around Stetson Bank, West Flower Garden Bank, East Flower Garden Bank and McGrail Bank are regulated both as Coral HAPCs and as components of the National Marine Sanctuary. A fishing license is required even if you only want to capture and release fish. Part 600 Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions Anglers catch Cobia year-round in Florida. Harvest or possession of wild live rock is prohibited. Florida Saltwater Fishing Regulations, Bag Limits & Seasons. All sales are final. For example, to fish for snook, you must have a saltwater fishing license, and you can only fish for it during certain times of the year. According to Florida fishing regulations, all non-residents over age 16 need to have a Sunshine State fishing license before they cast off. No matter whether you want to reel in an inshore catch with the kids or cast off from an offshore charter, youll find great fishing in PCB. If youre opting for a chartered fishing trip, youll need to decide if you want an inshore or offshore trip. Youth under age 16 are exempt. The temperature drops and light is reduced, making great conditions for catching inshore and freshwater fish. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Occasionally, there are county-level restrictions that are also noted. Fishing in Florida is great year-round. 622.34 Gulf EEZ seasonal and/or area closures. Contact the HMS Division of NOAA Fisheries for more information: 301-427-8503, Snappers Groupers Other Reef Fish Coastal Migratory Pelagics Shellfish Coral Highly Migratory Species, Shallow water grouper quota 525,000 pounds GW. Lake George and Lake Kerr, both located in the forest, are known as Floridas top lakes for Lunkers. Sharks can be caught and released in Florida. Keep in mind you might need special gear for rainy day fishing. Florida has great fishing in every season, which means youre sure to bring home a great catch no matter when you head out to sea. Do Florida Visitors Need a Fishing License? These diverse species include both gamefish that can be a blast to reel in and fish that make for good eating on the dinner table. The FWC strives to increase and diversify participation in fishing throughout Florida via an effort known as R3, which stands for Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation. To view identification hints and additional photographs, swipe through an image. The following activities are prohibited: Discharges The massive lake takes up parts of. Divers must measure in water. The FWC strives to increase and diversify participation in fishing throughout Florida via an effort known as R3, which stands for Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation. Active duty United States military personnel stationed in Florida, including spouses and dependent children residing in the household, with military orders. The R3 initiative helps create the next generation of anglers who have a vested interest in conserving and managing Florida's natural resources. Up to 1.5 pounds of legal finfish exempt from this rule for personal consumption at sea provided the vessel is equipped to cook such finfish. FLfishing regulations are designed to protect the states marine resources. The fish must be between 15-inches and 19-inches, but there are some workarounds for larger fish. Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program Reviews, Open off Florida for 2 day mini-season the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July, Season opens at 6:00 a.m. the day after the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday, including the first weekend after the opening, 50 CFR: Wildlife and Fisheries PART 622 FISHERIES OF THE CARIBBEAN, GULF OF MEXICO, AND SOUTH ATLANTIC. The Florida bluefish minimum fork length is 12 inches, with a bag limit of ten fish for the Gulf and three fish for the Atlantic. They prefer to ambush bait, which means they arent really in it for the chase. Non-residents also have options, as they can choose to get an annual freshwater fishing license, 5-day, or 3-day license as well. To book over the phone call (239) 437-1660 or find the Ship Store at the marina at 14341 Port Comfort Road in Fort Myers. Lets look at some of the best places to fish in Florida.