Hunting and Fishing License Information for Okaloosa County

• •The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) sets all hunting and fishing policies and license fees.
• •The Okaloosa County Tax Collector acts as an agent to sell permits and collect fees.
• •A valid license is required for all citizens to hunt or fish in Florida.
• •Residents 65 and older are eligible for a complimentary Senior Citizen Hunting and Fishing License.
• •The 'Cane Pole Law' allows residents to fish in their county of residence without a license using non-reel poles and natural bait for non-commercial purposes.
• •No license is required to fish in a private fishing pond.
• •Saltwater fishing licenses are required for fishing from boats, sandbars, or while swimming in water deeper than four feet.
• •Underwater divers taking marine fish must obtain a license.
• •Annual licenses are valid for 12 months from the start date.
• •Five-year and lifetime licenses are available for Florida residents.
• •Non-residents can purchase three-day, seven-day, or twelve-month licenses.
• •The Florida Sportsman’s License covers recreational hunting and freshwater fishing but excludes commercial, trapping, and federal duck stamp permits.
• •Military Gold Sportsman Licenses are available at a discount for active duty or retired military residents at tax collector offices.
• •Credit and debit card transactions at the Tax Collector's office incur a bank card user fee.
• •Licenses can be purchased online via GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

Residents must obtain valid state-issued licenses to legally hunt or fish in Florida, with specific requirements and exemptions based on age, residency, and activity type.