Fishing License Florida Veteran: Navigating the Discounts and Exemptions

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Florida offers a range of benefits and exemptions for veterans when it comes to fishing licenses. Whether you’re an active duty service member, a retired veteran, or a disabled veteran, understanding your options can help you save money and enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities.

Does a Florida Veteran Need a Fishing License to Fish in Florida?

The answer depends on your military status and residency. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

  1. Military Gold Sportsman’s License: Florida veterans can obtain a Military Gold Sportsman’s License, which includes freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses, hunting licenses, and various permits for a reduced fee of $20 annually. This license is available to active duty and retired members of the U.S. Armed Forces, the U.S. Armed Forces Reserve, the Florida National Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard, or the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve who are stationed in Florida or claim Florida as their primary residence.

  2. Exemptions for Florida Veterans on Leave: Florida resident veterans who are stationed outside of Florida and home on leave for 30 days or less are exempt from general license requirements. They must carry their leave papers and military ID when fishing.

What Are the Exemptions for Florida Veterans When It Comes to Fishing Licenses?

Fishing License Florida Veteran

In addition to the Military Gold Sportsman’s License and the leave exemption, Florida offers the following exemptions for veterans:

  1. Military Gold Sportsman’s License: This license includes freshwater and saltwater fishing licenses, hunting licenses, and various permits for a reduced fee of $20 annually.

  2. Leave Exemption: Florida resident veterans on leave for 30 days or less are exempt from general license requirements.

  3. Disabled Veteran Event License Exemption: Organizations holding recreational fishing events for disabled veterans and service members can apply for a permit that exempts participants from Florida recreational fishing licenses or permit requirements.

How Can a Florida Veteran Obtain a Discounted Fishing License?

There are a few ways for Florida veterans to obtain a discounted fishing license:

  1. Military Gold Sportsman’s License: This license can be obtained online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com through an online verification process or at Florida tax collectors’ offices with proof of residency and a current military identification card.

  2. Leave Exemption: Florida resident veterans on leave must carry their leave papers and military ID when fishing to be exempt from general license requirements.

Additional Information

Here are some additional details on fishing license benefits for Florida veterans:

  • Florida Disabled Resident Hunting and Fishing License: Resident veterans with a 100% service-connected, total and permanent disability rating from the VA are eligible for a five-year license. They must provide a valid Florida driver’s license, Florida ID card, Florida Disabled Veteran ID card, or official documentation certifying their disability rating.

  • Florida Hunting and Fishing Licenses at Resident Prices for Nonresident Service Members and their Families: Nonresident active duty service members stationed in Florida and their families can purchase Florida hunting and fishing licenses at resident prices.

By understanding the various discounts and exemptions available, Florida veterans can save money and enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities. Whether you’re an active duty service member, a retired veteran, or a disabled veteran, be sure to explore your options and take advantage of the benefits offered by the state of Florida.

References

  1. Bay County Tax Collector. (n.d.). Military Hunting and Fishing Licenses. Retrieved from https://baycountyfltax.gov/military-resources/military-hunting-and-fishing-licenses
  2. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (n.d.). Military Gold Sportsman’s License. Retrieved from https://myfwc.com/license/recreational/military-gold/
  3. Visit Florida. (2020, August 6). Military Discounts for Florida Fishing and Hunting Licenses. Retrieved from https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/florida-fishing-and-hunting-license-discounts-for-the-military/
  4. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (n.d.). Military/Disabled Veteran Event License Exemption Permit. Retrieved from https://myfwc.com/license/recreational/do-i-need-one/disabled-veteran-event/
  5. MyArmyBenefits. (2024, May 15). Florida Military and Veterans Benefits. Retrieved from https://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil/Benefit-Library/State/Territory-Benefits/Florida.

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