Skip to main content

Florida Fishing Licenses

You can fish anywhere – literally – in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida. We want all anglers to experience the luck of fishing in our very own “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” but we require that you are properly licensed before doing so!

Florida fishing licenses are required for all residents between 16 and 64 years of age. Persons 65 and over must carry a Senior Citizen Hunting and Fishing Certificate, which can be obtained free from the county tax collector. Totally and permanently disabled Florida residents are also eligible for a free license. Exempt is any resident who is a member of the U.S. Armed Forces and is not stationed in Florida and is home on leave for 30 days or less, upon submission of orders.

If a fishing license is of no interest for you, but fishing the depths of the Gulf of Mexico and our other pristine waters is a must during your getaway, hop on one of our many charter boats. As one of the largest commercial fishing fleets in the United States, your perfect charter boat is waiting and ready to help you reel in a big one! Our experienced captains will make sure your fishing excursion is a safe, hassle-free success.

Nonresident

Freshwater or Saltwater

  • 3-Day (Valid three days from specified beginning date) – $17
  • 7-Day (Valid seven days from specified beginning date) – $30

Resident Annual

  • Annual Saltwater Fishing – $17
  • Saltwater/Freshwater 
Fishing Combo – $32.50
  • Saltwater/Freshwater Fishing/Hunting Combo – $48

NOTE: Residents fishing for a saltwater species (other than mullet in freshwater) from land or from a structure fixed to the land are required to have a no-cost saltwater shoreline fishing license.

Please consult with a local licensing agent for more details on license fees and regulations for Florida residents and visitors.

Freshwater and saltwater fishing information:

1-888-FISH-FLORIDA or MyFWC.com/fishing

Instant licenses (online):
MyFWC.com/fishing

Two lifeguards standing in front of an ATV and standing at an Okaloosa Island beach.

FEATURED STORY

What do the beach flags mean in Destin-Fort Walton Beach?

What do the beach flags mean in Destin-Fort Walton Beach? By Emily When visiting the soft white-sand beaches of Destin–Fort Walton Beach, families can feel confident knowing that safety is a top priority. From the moment you step onto the shore, the goal of Okaloosa County is simple: to make…

Read more

Trip Ideas

While beachgoers can lay out on the sand, shoppers can stroll down the HarborWalk Village and savor plates of Gulf-to-Table seafood. What will you do in Destin-Fort Walton Beach?

What do the beach flags mean in Destin-Fort Walton Beach?

What do the beach flags mean in Destin-Fort Walton Beach? By Emily When visiting the soft white-sand beaches of Destin–Fort Walton Beach, families can feel confident knowing that safety is a top priority. From the moment you step onto the shore, the goal of Okaloosa County is simple: to make…

Read more

Savor the Coast + Make an Impact: 2026 Emerald Coast Open Restaurant Week

Savor the Coast + Make an Impact: 2026 Emerald Coast Open Restaurant Week By Emily The spring time in Destin-Fort Walton Beach not only brings beach days, shorts + flip-flops, and families together, it also brings the entire Gulf Coast together for an important cause. This award-winning destination hosts one…

Read more

Ease Into the Weekend in Destin-Fort Walton Beach

Ease Into the Weekend in Destin-Fort Walton Beach By Dakota The weekend begins the moment you roll into Destin‑Fort Walton Beach Your home base for the adventure? Henderson Beach Resort, perched right on the sugar-white sand and overlooking Henderson Beach State Park. After checking in, you head straight…

Read more

May 16, 2026

Emerald Coast Open Lionfish Festival 2026

Emerald Coast Open Lionfish Festival is back and better than ever! Lots of vendors and…

DISCOVER EVENTS

ENEWSLETTER SIGN-UP

Get a little sand in your inbox.

Complete the form here to receive emails highlighting special events and opportunities in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Your information will not be sold or distributed. Privacy policy.