So many fish, so little time

For many visitors, Florida’s vast fresh and salt waters mean one thing – a relaxing day of fishing. Fishing is one of the most popular activities in Florida. And Florida leads the states in many fishing categories.

Conservation is also important in Florida. Because of the delicate balance of Florida’s tropical environment, all fishermen need to help preserve the state’s great sport-fishing traditions.

Give fishing a try the next time you are in Florida. Some facts and tips for vacationing fisherman:

POPULAR FISH

Spotted sea trout -- Found in grassy bays, often close to shore on both coasts.

Dolphin – The fish, not the mammal, is common in Gulf Stream waters mostly in spring and fall.

Snook – Aggressive fighters are frequent catches on coasts from the middle of the state down to the Keys.

Sailfish – Found just beyond the point where the reef ends and the deep ocean starts.

Tarpon – Powerful, big catches can be found near bridges at night.

Yellowtail snapper – Strong reef fish mostly found in South Florida.

Kingfish – Fast-moving fish that is found near the surface offshore.

Largemouth bass – Plentiful in the numerous lakes of Central Florida as well as the big Lake Okeechobee.

Bonefish – Fast fighters are found in the shallow flats of the Florida Keys and Biscayne Bay.

FISHING LICENSES

Recreational licenses and permits for residents and nonresidents are available at county tax collectors' offices and subagents, such as sporting goods stores or other retailers selling hunting or fishing equipment. Prices include a tax collector's fee for the county. In addition to the cost of a license or permit given in this section, an issuance fee of $.50 may be charged by the subagent selling the license or permit.

You can buy fishing or hunting licenses before you leave home, too. Call 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA from anywhere in the United States or Canada. You need a major credit card. You can also purchase permits online at www.state.fl.us/fwc.

When you get a permit on the phone or online, you'll have a temporary license number within minutes, enabling you to fish right away. Your permanent license will be mailed within 48 hours. In addition to the cost of the license, there is an additional $3.95 convenience charge for the telephone service. The convenience charge for the online purchase varies with the vendor.

TAKE CARE

Consider the delicate balance of Florida’s fishery resources. You can get size limits at local tackle shops or by calling (850) 487-0554 or online at www.state.fl.us/fwc.

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