You can fish without paying a penny this spring. The state's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission dropped license fees for April 5-6, 2025, letting everyone hit the water.
Spring begins a run of free fishing days in 2025. While you won't need a license on these special weekends, including June 14-15, regular fishing rules still apply.
Anglers of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to take advantage of this special weekend that allows them to reel in their favorite freshwater species without the need for a fishing license. There are two family fishing events during this weekend:
- Tenoroc Fish Management Area
3829 Tenoroc Mine Road, Lakeland, FL 33805
April 5, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Pre-registration required and ends on Friday, April 4, at 5 p.m. Call the FWC at 863-648-3200 to register for the event. There will be a casting contest, exhibitors and other outdoor activities for youth participants. A free lunch will be provided by Publix Supermarkets and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida. Bait and a limited number of loaner rods and reels will also be provided free of charge to youth aged 15 and younger. A parent or guardian must accompany youth participants. - Florida Bass Conservation Center
3583 County Road 788, Webster, FL 33597
April 5, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Attendees should bring fishing gear and bait. A free lunch of hotdogs and hamburgers will be provided by Vital Fleet Services.
You can keep up to five black bass per day. Just remember - only one can be longer than 16 inches.
Land something big? Take pictures for the TrophyCatch program. This community research project tracks big largemouth bass, helping monitor fish numbers while giving prizes to successful anglers.
Never fished before? The FWC's online guide shows good fishing spots, recommends starter gear, and tells you when different fish are biting.
Florida removes license requirements on certain days throughout the year for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
The state lowered prices on resident fishing licenses through early January 2025, making it more affordable to fish all year. These reductions were meant to encourage more people to try fishing.
