It's one of the most common questions we get from visitors — and understandably, nobody wants to start their vacation with a paperwork errand. The short answer: if you fish with us, you don't need to buy anything. We provide fishing licenses for everyone on board, adults and kids.
Here's the longer answer, including what to do if you plan to fish on your own during your Naples stay.
Fishing on a charter in Naples
Licensed Florida charter boats carry a vessel license that covers their paying passengers. You don't buy anything, don't need an account with the state, and don't need to know the regulations — that's the captain's job. The captain knows the size limits, bag limits and closed seasons for every species, and keeps you legal.
On a Naples Saltwater Fishing charter, every angler is covered, from grandparents to a five-year-old's first snook. Just show up and fish.
Fishing on your own
If you fish from the beach, a pier, a bridge or your own boat, Florida generally requires a saltwater fishing license for anyone aged 16 or older. There are exemptions — children under 16, for example, and a few license-free fishing days the state declares each year.
Rules, fees and exemption lists change, so don't rely on a blog post (including this one). Check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's license page before you go. Licenses are sold online, at tackle shops and at many bait-and-tackle retailers around Naples.
Visiting from out of state?
Non-residents fishing on their own need a non-resident license, sold as short-term (3-day, 7-day) or annual options. A short-term license is usually plenty for a vacation — but on our boat, you're covered like everyone else, so most of our guests never spend a dollar on licenses.
Do kids need a fishing license?
In Florida, children under 16 don't need a saltwater fishing license — on a charter or fishing on their own. That said, kids on our boat are covered either way, and the captain rigs them a lighter setup that actually gets bites. A child's first fish shouldn't wait on an adult's fishing lesson, and ours usually don't.
Shore fishing vs. charter fishing: which is right for you?
Shore fishing costs less, but a guide changes the math. A captain knows which flats hold snook this week, where the redfish tail on a rising tide, and how to read the water — knowledge that takes locals years to build. You also get quality bait, rigged tackle, and a boat that puts you where the fish actually are instead of wherever you can walk.
If you're on vacation for a week, one charter with us usually beats five mornings of guess-fishing from a pier.
What else is included on our trips
- Fishing licenses for all anglers
- Bait and tackle, rigged by the captain
- Fish cleaning at the dock
- Shade, music and ice cold drinks
Bring sunscreen, a hat and whatever you'd like for lunch — that's the whole packing list. More questions? Our FAQ page covers most of them.
Book your trip
Request a date or call Captain Tony at 239-280-6246. We'll confirm the details and handle everything else — licenses included.
This page is general information, not legal advice. For current license requirements and fees, always confirm with the FWC.
