Too Much Thanksgiving Turkey? You Can Fish for Free on Saturday

TALLAHASSEE, FL — If you like to fish as much as you enjoy the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend, then you’re angling for a great Saturday.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott announced today that Saturday will be a license-free saltwater fishing day — not only for the state’s nearly 20 million residents, but for the throngs of tourists who flock to the Sunshine State from all over the United States to take advantage of the long holiday weekend.

“This Thanksgiving weekend is a perfect time for Floridians and visitors to discover why our state is known as the fishing capital of the world,” said Scott on Wednesday in announcing the holiday perk. “This license-free saltwater fishing day is a great reminder of how thankful we are that our state is home to so many natural treasures and unique outdoor activities. We are expecting to welcome millions of visitors to Florida for the holiday weekend and I hope everyone will take this opportunity to enjoy our beautiful state with their families.”

Saturday is one of a total of eight license-free fishing days each year offered by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

This year, the Thanksgiving holiday weekend fishing day coincides with the last open dates of the recreational red snapper season in Gulf state waters between Nov. 25-27.

“A major part of FWC’s mission to conserve all of Florida’s natural resources is the responsibility to provide Floridians and our visitors with access to some of America’s best fishing opportunities,” added FWC Chairman Brian Yablonski. “Throughout the year, license-free fishing days give our residents, especially young children, the chance to learn more about natural Florida and the work that goes into its conservation. FWC will continue the responsible management of our state’s fisheries so Floridians can have abundant fishing opportunities. Our hope is that families throughout the state can spend time with loved ones enjoying great fishing while giving thanks this holiday weekend.”

While you will be able to catch saltwater fish without a saltwater recreational fishing license on Saturday, you will still be expected to comply with bag limits, seasons and size restrictions.

To learn more about license-free fishing days, visit MyFWC.com/License. For fishing tips, locations and other information visit MyFWC.com/Fishing.

The Tipka family shows off their catch.