FLORIDA — Florida’s 2023 license-free freshwater fishing days are Saturday and Sunday.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) invites Florida residents and visitors to go freshwater fishing during the two license-free days this weekend, April 1-2.
According to the FWC, license-free freshwater fishing days provide an excellent opportunity for those new to fishing without needing first to purchase a license.
This weekend, the fishing license requirement is waived for all recreational anglers, including residents and non-residents. All other rules, including seasons, bag, and size limits, still apply.
If you are new to fishing, visit the FWC’s Learn to Fish webpage for all the information on what you need to bring and where to go.
The FWC is hosting two free freshwater fishing events this weekend, and the public is invited to attend. Youth anglers will be allowed to access fish in ponds on site. Bring your fishing gear, bait, and chairs, and go fishing.
Florida Bass Conservation Center Youth Fishing Derby
Where: Florida Bass Conservation Center
3583 CR 788, Webster, FL 33597)
When: Saturday, April 1, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Tenoroc Youth Fishing Derby
Where: Tenoroc Public Use Area
3829 Tenoroc Mine Road, Lakeland, FL 33805
When: Saturday, April 1, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Registration is required for youth participation at this event. To pre-register, call the FWC at 863-648-3200 Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pre-registration will end on Friday, March 31, at 5 p.m.
Get your feet wet and register with TrophyCatch, FWC’s bass fishing angler recognition program.
Fish all year by getting your Florida fishing license at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
For more information on freshwater fishing, visit the FWC Freshwater Fishing.
