Florida shore-based shark fishing course and permit rules

FWC uses a broad definition of shore here: beaches count, along with structures attached to land such as jetties, bridges, and piers. The Shark-Smart course opens online; after finishing it, add the permit through FWC’s licensing system and renew it each year.

The permit does not replace any regular saltwater fishing license that applies. It also has no age-65 exemption, even though Florida residents 65 and older are normally exempt from the saltwater license itself.

Anglers younger than 16 do not need the permit. They still need the course unless they are fishing with someone who holds the permit.

For anglers age 16 and older, the permit can be required even when they are fishing for another species from shore. This applies when the setup uses a metal leader longer than 4 feet or a fighting belt or harness. It also applies when bait is deployed by a method other than casting and the hook measures at least 1 1/2 inches at its widest inside distance.

The permit is only one part of the check. When live or dead natural bait is used to target sharks, the hook must be a non-offset, non-stainless-steel circle hook. Anglers must also have a device that can quickly cut the leader or hook. Prohibited species must stay in the water and be released without delay, and beach chumming is prohibited.

Before choosing the spot, check the local beach, bridge, or pier rules for access, parking, lighting, and fishing hours. The trip works best when the state rule, the local place rule, and the release plan all agree.