You do not need a recreational saltwater fishing license or a snook or spiny lobster *permit if..

• You have been accepted as a client for developmental services by the Department of Children and Family Services. The department must furnish proof to such clients.
• You fish from a for-hire vessel (guide, charter, party boat) that has a valid vessel license.
• You fish from a vessel, the operator of which has a valid vessel license issued in the name of the operator of the vessel.
• You fish for recreational purposes from a pier with a valid pier saltwater fishing license.
• You have a valid saltwater products license.
• You fish for mullet in fresh water and you have a valid Florida freshwater fishing license.
• You are a resident who is saltwater fishing from land or a structure fixed to land who has been determined eligible for the food stamp, temporary cash assistance, or Medicaid Program by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Proof of identification and a benefit issuance or program identification card issued by DCFS or the Agency for Health Care Administration must be on your person when fishing.

NOTE:  Effective Aug. 1, 2009 - Residents and nonresidents fishing for a saltwater species (other than mullet in fresh water) from land or from a structure fixed to the land are required to purchase a saltwater fishing license.

* These exemptions do not apply to tarpon tags.