Have you thought about fishing but don’t know where to start? Do you find the idea of fishing relaxing, soothing or all-around fun? Whether it be to relax or to let loose, here are five tips to ensure the maximum enjoyment from your fishing experience!
TIP #1: GET A LICENSE. It’s the law, and the money from your license supports fishery resources. If you think fishing can become a hobby, a pastime, a sport, or a getaway, purchase a fishing license. Fishing licenses come in various types to suit your needs. There are saltwater and freshwater licenses, licenses lasting different time periods, licenses for various fish species, and licenses for youth.
If you are just testing the waters before making fishing a regular activity, try fishing on one of four saltwater and four freshwater license-free fishing days each year. The freshwater fishing days are the first consecutive Saturday and Sunday in April (April 6-7, 2019), and the second consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June (June 8-9, 2019). The saltwater fishing days are the first consecutive Saturday and Sunday in June (June 1-2, 2019), the first Saturday in September (Sept. 7, 2019), and the Saturday after Thanksgiving (Nov. 30, 2019).
TIP #2: KNOW BEFORE YOU GO. Whether it be St. Marks, St. George Island, or Steinhatchee, know where you are going! Research the spots and places where you intend to fish. Be sure to tell someone where you are going in case of emergency. Know the species you would like to keep and the fish you would like to release. Also, make sure to follow all fishing regulations, which can be found at MyFWC.com/Fishing. Figuring out what fish to target, where the species can be found, how to identify the target species, what the fish regulations are, and whether you intend to harvest or release a fish allows you to maximize your time on the water and help maintain sustainable fish populations.
TIP #3: GRAB YOUR GEAR. Other than the rod and reel, here are some handy fishing equipment ideas to help with your trip:
- Tackle
- Lures
- Circle hooks
- Jig heads
- Weights
- Swivels and snaps
- Floats
- Extra fishing line
- Bait
- Cooler and ice
- Fillet knife
- Pliers or line cutters
- Dehooking tools
- Landing net (knotless, rubber coated)
- Measuring device
- Secure container for trash and used fishing line
- First aid kit and sunscreen
- Regulations and fish identification guides
Check out MyFWC.com/FishingLines for more on fishing basics.
TIP #4: LEARN HOW TO FISH! To avoid the anxieties of being the person who hooks the back of his shirt or the one who can’t figure out how to cast a line, try one of our free saltwater fishing clinics. The clinics not only build your skill set, but they also build your confidence and give you knowledge to fish. They provide a safe, friendly, fun space for beginners and experienced anglers to learn, teach, and practice fishing skills for anyone who needs them! Fishing clinics occur statewide. Find an upcoming clinic near you at MyFWC.com/Calendar. Can’t make it to one of our events? View fishing how-to videos and more at MyFWC.com/SaltwaterFishing.
TIP #5: GO! One of the best ways to experience fishing is to go outside and fish! While on the water, take pictures, enjoy the view, and soak up the experience! Submit saltwater catches to our Catch a Florida Memory program at CatchaFloridaMemory.com for a chance to win prizes and commemorate your experience even more. Happy Fishing! 
Tayler Farrington
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
