Do I Need A Fishing License
If you are going to go fishing in the waters off Anna Maria Island you MUST purchase a fishing license and you have to obey the fishing regulations. Separate permits are required to take spiny lobsters, tarpon or snook.
Anna Maria Island SALTWATER Fishing Licenses
It is necessary to buy a saltwater fishing license when fishing in the coastal waters of the state of Florida (or taking marine species). The waters off the shores of Anna Maria Island are no exception. The license is required for finfish, shellfish and shells. Separate permit stamps are required for taking Snook, crawfish, and spiny lobsters. A special stamp is needed to take and possess a single tarpon. No stamp is needed to catch and release Snook or tarpon. Go to MyFlorida.com or Call 1(888) Fish-Florida.
Anna Maria Island FRESHWATER Fishing Licenses
All non-Florida residents who are 16 or older, fishing in freshwater or brackish water for freshwater fish must have a Florida State Freshwater Fishing License. To obtain a Fishing License, you may go to local bait & tackle shops, sporting goods departments at discount stores, some marinas and hardware stores, as well as any tax collector office (3340 East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach next to Walgreen’s). You can also purchase licenses at any Wal-Mart or Kmart stores in Manatee County.
Who is Exempt from Purchasing a Fishing License in Florida?
Children younger than 16
Florida residents older than 65
Florida residents fishing in saltwater from land
Florida residents fishing in saltwater from a structure fixed to land
Persons fishing with a licensed operator of a boat charging fees for fishing
Florida residents who are members of the United States Armed Forces, stationed out of state and home on leave.
State of Florida department of veterans and community affairs or worker compensation notice of action.
Handicapped residents and residents certified totally and permanently disabled.
Non-Florida residents fishing from a pier that has paid a license fee.
For saltwater licenses, any Florida resident wading in less than 4 ft. of water.
A good rule of thumb is that if you have to pay to fish, you don’t need a license, but ALWAYS make sure.
