I'm Going Fishing--For Free!

December 8, 2012

 

 

 

     A few days ago I wrote about seeing someone sitting on the bank of the Little Econ River, just casually casting his fishing line into the water.  I had added "go fishing" to my list of activities for retirement.

 

      I researched fishing this morning, and lo and behold, I can fish for free, without a fishing license!  Here is the rule/law that affects me.  Yay for being old!!

What does a senior license certificate cover and where do I get it?

Florida residents age 65 or older only need a Florida Driver License or Identification Card to prove residency and age. They are not required to purchase the following recreational licenses and permits:

• Saltwater fishing, freshwater fishing and hunting licenses
• Snook, lobster, deer, management area, muzzleloading, turkey, archery, crossbow, *Florida waterfowl, and migratory bird permits.

You can get a complimentary senior card at the county tax collectors office, but it is not necessary. You can find links to the county tax collector offices at $taxcollectors.
While a license is not required for resident seniors, they should keep proof of age and residency in their possession while participating in these activities.


     That means that I can rush to my nearest Target or (where would I go around here?) somewhere nearby to purchase $50 worth of equipment to fish for free.  Seems logical. 

     Remember, this Wednesday, the Golden Ticket Day, I get my first  SS check.  That means I will have some "recreational funds" to try out my retirement activity. 

     I was sitting at a picnic bench on the bank of the river when I saw the man fishing.  I didn't see any DisneyWorld safety rails or fences to keep alligators from just strolling up the bank to eat me, however.  Oh, heck.  I didn't see an alligator strolling up the bank to eat the fishing guy either.



      Definitely going shopping for a fishing rod, a big knife to kill any gators, snakes or serial killers, a comfortable camping chair to relax in, a pair of work gloves for when I have to hold the fish to remove the hook before I throw it back in the river, and a picnic lunch from Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Oh yes.  I'll need bait.  What do freshwater fish like to bite off of a hook?  Hope it's not worms. 



     If they only want worms, then I'm going bowling instead. 

Follow me on pinterest while I'm "gone fishing" this morning. Just click this link to get there.