From the Publisher
There’s been some buzz about Florida discontinuing the 3-day fishing license for non-residents. Actually, there has been a bit of a misunderstanding circulating about this: the Florida 3-day non-resident fishing license has NOT been discontinued, but the way it can be obtained has changed significantly.
As of late 2025, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) removed the option to purchase short-term (3-day and 7-day) non-resident licenses online or via the mobile app.
While the licenses still exist, the FWC "quietly" moved them behind a physical counter. You could buy a 3-day license on the GoOutdoorsFlorida.com website or the Fish/Hunt FL app and start fishing immediately. But now you must now purchase 3-day and 7-day non-resident licenses IN PERSON only. They are no longer listed in the online storefront for out-of-state visitors.
Where Can You Still Buy One?
If you are visiting Florida and only want a 3-day license ($17), you have to go to a physical "Authorized License Agent” or local County Tax Collector offices.
In most of Florida major retailers and sporting goods stores, and even Walmart, may no longer process these specific short-term licenses.
While the FWC hasn't issued a massive public manifesto on the change, industry experts and guides point to a few practical reasons including administrative costs. Processing a $17 transaction involves credit card fees and back-end management that often cost the state nearly as much as the license itself.
The Non-Resident Annual License ($47) is still available for instant purchase online. By making the 3-day license harder to get, the state encourages visitors to opt for the annual version for convenience.
In-person verification at a tax collector's office also reduces issues with charge-backs or incorrect residency claims.
If you are booking a saltwater charter, you generally don't need to worry about this. Most licensed Florida captains carry a "blanket" license that covers everyone on their boat. However, guide licenses do not cover fresh water. If you are fishing freshwater with a guide or fishing from the shore on your own, you will need to find a physical shop to buy that 3-day pass.
You DO NOT need a fishing license to attend the fishing seminars this month. On March 21st at the new Tarpon Boatworks facility on Pine Island you’ll have a chance to hear from the best. 4 local experts share everything from warm/cold water fishing, live and artificial baits, tackle and gear, and even their favorite lunch spot. They are not here to sell you a charter, they are here to teach and share. There will be seating for 100+, but bring a folding chair if you have one.
There will be waters and snacks, all for free to attendees, plus we’re ordering a couple Publix sandwich platters. We’ll ask for a $5 donation to help offset expenses but this is not required to attend and there is no RSVP required. The raffle is also free, all attendees get tickets. See page 20.
On the cover is an old photo from a Nautical Mile reader who has been following us for years. He recently relocated to another part of the state and keeps up with SW Florida coastal happenings online. Hi Phil!
Jim Griffiths
Publisher, Nautical Mile
