Since the 1930s, visitors from around the world have journeyed to Martin County to fish our abundant offshore and inshore waters. The uniqueness of our geographical location at the southern edge of the temperate zone and the northern boundary of the subtropical zone, combined with the influence of the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River, contributes to the huge diversity of game fish found in our area.
The Stuart Sailfish Club is one of the oldest sport fishing clubs in the U.S.. It promotes conservation of game fish and encourages visitors to fish in Martin County waters. The Club attracts visitors by sponsoring offshore fishing tournaments.
A boat is not a necessity to enjoy a great day of fishing in Martin County. Surf casting along our miles of ocean front beaches, as well as the many fishing piers, causeways, canals and bridges offer excellent angling opportunity. Fishers can surf cast anywhere on Hutchinson Island (A1A, whole island).
Under Florida law, anglers must be licensed to fish from a boat in salt and brackish waters, as well as fresh water. are available at county tax collectors’ offices. In addition, you can buy them from subagents, such as sporting goods stores or other retailers that sell hunting or fishing equipment; on the Internet and by phone.
Residents over 65 and under 16 do not need a license for salt water fishing for sport. If an angler wishes to sell his catch, he must obtain a commercial salt water fishing license. It is recommended that anyone unsure about whether a license applies for sport fishing should contact the Tax Collector’s Office where all licenses are issued at 288-5400. Taking of all shellfish is prohibited in Martin County.
Upper waters of north and south forks of the St. Lucie river are designated fresh waters and a fresh water license is required to fish in them for both fresh water limits. The north fork is a wildlife refuge and netting is prohibited. No guns are permitted in boats.
Visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for Saltwater and Freshwater Fishing License and Regulations information.
Recreational licenses and permits for residents and nonresidents are available at county tax collectors’ offices. In addition, you can buy them from subagents, such as sporting goods stores or other retailers that sell hunting or fishing equipment; on the Internet and by phone. All license, permit and issuance fees are subject to change by the legislature.
Before purchasing a recreational license or permit, please make sure you understand what qualifies as Florida residency and that you’re read the exemptions to determine if you really need a license or permit. If hunting, make sure you have met the hunter safety requirement.
Visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for information on Hunting Licenses and fees.
Doe Season is mid-October through mid-January. Check specific dates each year. Call Tax Collector’s office at 288-5400 for additional information.
Florida Hunting and Fresh Water fishing regulations should be consulted for bag and size limits on fresh water fish. Call the Marine Patrol or the Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission for any information related to fishing, boating, diving and hunting regulations in Martin County and Florida.
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