Welcome to 2024-25 Florida Freshwater Fishing
Freshwater Rule Changes
- Lakes Lochloosa and Orange (Alachua County): New black bass regulations added.
- Added Doral Glades Park Fish Management Area (Miami-Dade County)
- Removed Lang Lake Fish Management Area (Hamilton County)
For the latest rules, always visit FLRules.org. FWC rules are in chapter 68.
FWC’s Fish Management Areas Keep a Growing Florida Fishing
By Chairman Rodney Barreto
As this book goes to press, Florida is the fastest growing state in the U.S. for the second time in three years (it was second fastest in 2023). Florida is a great place to live, work, and play. It attracts visitors—and new residents—from across the country and around the globe. Known for thousands of lakes, the world’s only Everglades, and miles of rivers, the Sunshine state abounds in year-round fishing prospects.
The Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management’s Fish Management Areas (FMA) are a big component of those outdoor recreation opportunities. Nearly 80 FMAs dot the state with the specific goal of offering a close-to-home fishing experience for even our most urbanized populations. Amenities to make fishing better can include fish stocking, feeders, and fish attractors. Good shoreline access, fishing piers, and boat ramps make it easy to get to a fine day’s fishing for bass, bream (sunfish), or crappie with the entire family. See Florida's Urban Fisheries for more information and to find a new fishing adventure waiting for you nearby.
This year, the FWC continues to offer new ways to see even more of the outdoors as you fish our great state with your family and friends. We hope you’ll expand your enjoyment by taking the time to notice the wildlife and the scenery as you reel in your next catch. As always, stay safe on the water by watching the weather and having a plan, wearing a life jacket, and maintaining 360-degree awareness while operating a boat.
