NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

March 26, 1998

CONTACT: Bob Wattendorf (850) 488-0520

GFC HAS DEAL FOR LICENSE BUYERS

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has a deal for anglers who buy a 5-year freshwater fishing license during April and May.

With the purchase of a 5-year freshwater license, anglers will receive a bonus package with product samples and magazines worth in excess of $50. In addition, the package will include special deals and rebate offers worth hundreds of dollars more. In effect, you get five years’ worth of freshwater fishing, virtually free.

"Major national manufacturers and local companies combined to provide this offer for the first time anywhere last year," said Bob Wattendorf, of the FWC’s Division of Freshwater Fisheries.

The result was a six-fold increase in five-year freshwater fishing license sales during those two months. That is extremely important to the FWC because it allows the agency to invest the money for fish and wildlife conservation programs. At the same time manufacturers, publishers and other participants got to put their products in the hands of dedicated anglers who are likely to spend thousands of dollars on their sport during the next five years.

This year, the sample value is nearly doubled. Lure manufacturers such as Cotee, Culprit, Phantom, Rapala, Reaction, RJ Tackle and Storm are providing samples. Popular magazines like "Bass Destinations," "Florida Fishing and Boating," and "Florida Wildlife" will be included. Coupons will let you get a free copy of "Florida Sportsmen" along with a free pass to one of its boat shows, and a free copy of "Outdoor World," discount coupons for BassPro Shops and a free fishing lure and special discount offer from Luhr-Jenson.

Other offers include discounted memberships in "Fishing Made Cheap," (a wholesale club) and in the International Game Fish Association, both of which provide free lures and incentives to join.

Sierra Games will include a demo CD for their most popular fishing games, Champion and Tracker boats are each including special offers, as are Humminbird and Apelco (Raytheon) electronics. Ocean Waves sunglasses, Larson Outdoor Press, Quantum Reels, Motor Guide and other special deals complete the package.

To receive the bonus package all you need to do is buy a license that includes at least five years of freshwater fishing privileges (lifetime licenses and five-year combination licenses that include freshwater fishing privileges are eligible) through the instant license number at 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA (347-4356) or through the county tax collector. The cost of the license is $61.50 plus $3.95 surcharge for using the instant license service. Five-year and lifetime licenses automatically cover any fee increases that may occur before the license expires.