NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

January 25, 1999

CONTACT: Henry Cabbage (850) 488-4676

FWC OFFERS BONUS FOR LICENSE BUYERS

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is offering incentives to 5-year freshwater fishing license buyers during February and March. (See Poster with links to sponsors)

Purchasers of a 5-year freshwater license not only will get five years of fishing privileges, but also will receive a bonus package with product samples and magazines valued at more than $40 and nearly $500 in special offers and rebates. In addition, the license will be an embossed plastic card instead of paper.

Five-year licenses can be purchased at tax collectors’ offices statewide for $61.50 or by calling 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA (347- 4356). A $3.95 surcharge is added for using the toll-free license line.

The FWC has offered this promotion since 1997 with help from bait and tackle manufacturers, boat and electronics dealers, outdoors publishers and others who are interested in promoting recreational angling.

“This is a limited opportunity to get a great selection of free lures, magazines and other goodies as well as five years of fishing privileges,” said FWC’s Bob Wattendorf. “The promotion also benefits the FWC because it enables us to use the money for fish and wildlife programs.”

Sponsors providing samples or magazines in this year’s promotion are Bass Anglers Sportsman Society, Berkley, Bullet Weights, Daiichi Hooks, Florida Wildlife Magazine, Florida Fishing and Boating Magazine, Phantom Tackle, Wazp Spinner Baits, Shakespeare and Sports USA. Sponsors providing special offers, premium gifts and discounts include Bass Pro Shops, Carlson Tackle, Champion Boats, Florida Sportsman Magazine, International Game Fish Association, Larsen Publishing, Motor Guide, the North American Fishing Club, Ocean Wave Sunglasses, Outdoor World Magazine and Zebco.

Purchasers of lifetime licenses and 5-year combination licenses that include freshwater fishing privileges are eligible for this promotion. In addition, 5-year and lifetime licenses automatically cover any fee increases that may occur before the license expires.

For more information about FWC’s 5-year license promotion visit its web site at http://FloridaFisheries.com .