Fishing on AMI: Frequently Asked Questions

Anna Maria Island is a favorite spot for fishers of all ages and skill levels. The seven-mile-long island is surrounded by some of the most beautiful waters and hosts numerous local species of fish just waiting to be caught.

But first things first, before you start your fishing adventure, an updated Florida fishing license is a must. 

Florida Fishing License Laws

Anyone 16 & older planning to fish during their stay will need a fishing license. It is important to note that out-of-state permits are not valid in the State of Florida. There are multiple varieties of fishing liscenses, so it’s essential to plan your trip ahead and know what types of fish you are looking to catch.

Freshwater Fishing License

A freshwater fishing license covers you for your freshwater fishing needs and is required to take or attempt to take native or nonnative freshwater fish.  

The prices for a freshwater fishing license are as follows: 

• Resident Annual:  $17.00
• Resident Five-Year:  $79.00
• Non-Resident Annual:  $47.00
• Non-Resident 3-Day:  $17.00
• Non-Resident 7-Day:  $30.00

Freshwater fish that you might be looking to catch include:

• Redfish
• Seatrout
• Flounder
• Black Drum

Saltwater Fishing License

Similarly, a saltwater license will cover your saltwater fishing needs and is required to take or attempt to take native or nonnative saltwater fish.  

The prices for saltwater fishing licenses are as follows: 

• Resident Annual:  $17.00
• Resident Five-Year:  $79.00
• Non-Resident Annual:  $47.00
• Non-Resident 3-Day:  $17.00
• Non-Resident 7-Day:  $30.00

Saltwater Shoreline Fishing License

A shoreline fishing license is also valid for saltwater fishing on AMI from the shoreline or a structure affixed to the shore. This is a no-cost annual license for residents only. This is not valid when fishing from a vessel or a shoreline reached by a vessel.  It is also not valid if taking or attempting to take fish by swimming or diving.

Freshwater & Saltwater Combo Fishing License

Don’t know what you plan to catch? Cover all your bases with a combo license. 

A Note to Keep in Mind 

As noted on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Website, there are special things to consider when fishing in environments where both freshwater and saltwater fish live. 

When you enter estuarine-type areas where salt and fresh water commingle, and fish of both types can be found, the restrictions become less clear. The interpretation of the rule is:

1. You need either a freshwater, saltwater, or combination license (or appropriate exemption) to take fish (take is legally defined as taking, attempting to take, pursuing, capturing, or killing any fish, or their nests or eggs by any means whether or not such actions result in obtaining possession of such fish or their nests or eggs).
2. If you use species-specific gear, your license should be appropriate (e.g., freshwater or saltwater) to the species you are targeting.
3. Otherwise, you need an appropriate license to keep your catch and must immediately release any species for which you are not licensed. License requirements follow the species of fish, regardless of where they are caught. In other words, if you only have a freshwater license and are primarily fishing for largemouth bass or bream (freshwater species) in a river but happen to catch a red drum (a saltwater species), you must immediately release the red drum.

Where do I get a license?

For added convenience, many bait-and-tackle shops and sports retailers (e.g., Wal-Mart just off the island) sell licenses for a small additional fee.  Licenses are also available via the Internet or a toll-free call to credit card users for an additional convenience fee.

Getting a license or permit to engage in outdoor activities in Florida is quick and easy.  Licenses and permits are available at:

• Online at  GoOutdoorsFlorida.com
• In person at a  license agent  or  tax collector’s office
  • This office is located at 3340 East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach next to Walgreens on AMI
• By calling toll-free  888-FISH-FLORIDA  ( 888-347-4356) or  888-HUNT-FLORIDA  ( 888-486-8356)
• Through the Fish|Hunt FL App on  Apple  and  Android  devices
• At local bait and tackle shops

Ready, Set, Fish!

So you’ve got your license, and you are ready to go! Looking for the best places for live bait and tackle. Anna Maria Island has plenty of shops to pick up all your gear! 

Bridge Street Bait Shop  | Bradenton Beach

200 Bridge Street, Building A Bradenton Beach, Florida 34217

This local favorite offers fishing pole rentals for just $18/day on a first-come, first-served basis. They also offer a selection of live bait, including shrimp, frozen shrimp, squid, and sand fleas. Sometimes, they even have pinfish!

Island Discount Tackle  | Holmes Beach 

5503 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Since 1988,  ISLAND DISCOUNT TACKLE, a family-owned and operated business, has been a leading resource for freshwater and saltwater fishermen seeking the best tackle for their fishing experiences. They are open 7 days a week at 7 am. According to their website, Island Discount Tackle is a full-service, pro-style tackle shop featuring the biggest brand names in the fishing tackle business. They are a fully-stocked dealer with rod and reel names such as  Shimano,  Penn Reels,  St Croix Rods,  G.Loomis Rods, and  Star Rods. Their walls are PACKED with the best selection of terminal tackle for any kind of Florida fishing.

Ami Outfitters  | Anna Maria 

401 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216

Since 2012, AMI Outfitters has been a trusted name on Anna Maria Island, providing top-quality fly fishing gear, beach essentials, and stylish apparel for men, women, and children. Their commitment to excellence and the island tradition ensures you have everything you need for your outdoor adventures. 

Fishing on AMI with Serendipity

For our guests, we have poles available for use on a first-come, first-served basis. This provides a convenient option for those who would like to take part in fishing on AMI and ensures everyone has a chance to utilize what we have available. Just contact us and get ready for your fishing adventure. 

Looking for more fishing content with Serendipity? Check out our  Angler’s Guide to AMI here. 

Contact us to plan your fishing escape to Anna Maria Island with Serendipity today!