Learn the Florida Fishing Regulations
and Prepare for Your Trip

Once you've decided on your fishing venue, check out the Florida fishing regulations that apply to your trip. Then you'll need to prepare for your trip.

Make Reservations

If you plan to rent or charter a boat, you'll want to purchase tickets or make reservations for your Panama City Beach fishing adventure.

There are marinas near the Treasure Ship, the Lighthouse and Captain Andersons as well as across the Hathaway Bridge in Panama City. If you walk around in the area, you'll be able to see which charter boats have time slots available.

You'll find the party boats docked close to Captain Andersons.

Get a Fishing License if Needed

You will not need a fishing license to fish on most party boats, charter boats and piers that charge admission since most of them are already licensed for fishing.

If you wish to fish elsewhere, you'll need to get a florida fishing license. Out of state licenses can be purchased at Wal-Mart or a bait and tackle store as well as by mail or online. You can get licenses for 3 days, 7 days or an annual license. Resident annual licenses are available and of course cost less.

Check Current Federal and Florida Fishing Regulations

Check the fishing regulations. You'll want to make sure you are within the requirements for the season, size and bag limit of the species you catch. Florida State waters extend 9 nautical miles out into the Gulf of Mexico. Federal waters are beyond that. Depending where you choose to fish, the regualtions may vary.

You can find up to date Florida state saltwater fishing regulations at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website

 

Gather Your Gear

And of course you'll want to check your gear to make sure you have all the equipment you need. It's nice to have a little cart if you're bringing a cooler and tackle boxes along with your poles. It seems my husband can always use another pole or reel or lure...

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