NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

May 18, 1998

CONTACT: Lt. Stan Kirkland (850) 265-3676

FIRST TIME ANGLERS

For many young people their youth is a time of exploration and learning responsibility. When age 16 arrives, they not only are required to obtain a drivers’ license but also a fishing license if they plan to fish in Florida.

"Florida statutes require young people at 16 years of age to purchase a fishing (and hunting) license but the important thing is they’re contributing from that point on in managing our state’s resources," said Stan Kirkland, public information coordinator for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "The license costs $13.50 and the monies go to the state game trust fund and is used for a wide array of fishery and wildlife programs."

For those young people whose 16th birthday is close at hand, Kirkland said they may want to consider purchasing a five-year freshwater fishing license ($61.50). Not only do they avoid the hassle of purchasing a license each year, but those who purchase the five-year license by May 31 will receive a bonus package worth more than $50 for lures, hooks, magazines, discount certificates and rebate offers.

The five-year licenses can be purchased at county tax collectors’ offices or by calling 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA (347-4356).

While there are some license exemptions, residents aged 16 - 64 and nonresidents 16 and older are required to purchase a license. Florida residents 65 and older are exempt from license requirements.