Fishing Regulations

Eight fish on the deck of a boat with a ruler underneath
It's important to know the regulations before you fish.These yellowtail snapper were hooked inside a no-fishing area, resulting in a federal fine. Photo: FWC

The fisheries ecosystem is complex, and its management requires an equally intricate system of protections. Depending on where you drop a line, fishing activity may be regulated by multiple jurisdictions and a variety of seasonal calendars. Just as our Marine Sanctuary Explorer app helps you identify sanctuary regulations with GPS precision, the Fish Rules app can help you manage additional state and federal laws. Keep in mind the majority of waters inside the sanctuary boundary overlaps with the state of Florida, which requires a fishing permit.

Contact the appropriate agencies or organizations directly for more information on these laws.

State Fishing Regulations: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Federal Fishing Regulations: