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.

Nine Days of Thanksgiving Holidays To Practice

Nine Days of Thanksgiving Holidays To Try My Retirement Activities

November 17,2012

 

     With my school holidays starting, I am heading out with my beautiful new bike to ride to my heart's content.  But wait, there's more.

 

     When I was forced to take a detour on my way to work a week ago, it sent all traffic through a beautiful greenway/park I didn't know existed.  So for the past week I have taken that detour to and from work.  Immediately upon turning into the park, I become one with nature.

 

     There appears a flowing river,  a wide bike/running/walking/dog walking/stroller-pushing concrete pathway along the entire bank of the river.  Hundreds of migrating birds circle overhead.  Egrets are busying themselves along the river bank across the river.   People are strolling with babies, dogs, walkers, bikers, and I should be there.  Oh, and don't forget the people quietly fishing the river.

 

     Professional size soccer fields, two playgrounds, and one gigantic exercise center are also on the property, safely fenced from pathway traffic and the winding road for car traffic.  Who forgot to tell me about this treasure in Orlando?

 

     So, to add to my retirement activities list, a year ahead of when I'll need it, I'm loading up my bike and heading to that park for some peaceful riding.  I will not have to look for cracks in the road or traffic that might squash me.

 

     Number 9 (or is it 10) on my list is now to head to the park and ride my bike for awhile.  I might even pack a little snack in my bike basket.  Pictures later today.   This practice run will confirm its place on my list.

 

     Have a bountiful Thanksgiving meal, and please help those who need one.

 

 

 

 www.pinterest.com/mimihylton