Florida fishing licenses are a relative bargain, yet senior anglers are voicing anger, even outrage, over Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) informal proposal to end the free ride that Florida has given them since around 1930.

The FWC receives most of its revenue from license sales, and as it stands now, only boating anglers (there is currently a saltwater shore-fishing exemption as well) have to shell out the $12.50, plus service charges for a saltwater recreational fishing license. In short, that has left the kitty short. Too short, according to FWC officials, to make up an estimated $14.8 million in budget shortfalls by 2011.

Some seniors, including members of the Port St. Lucie Anglers in Port St. Lucie, Florida, have gone as far as to vote against the measure and

encourage members to write letters of opposition.

FWC points out that it is still early in the debate, and there also may be discounted licenses offered to low-income individuals, and proposals to include licenses for younger kids, and a badly needed license for those fishing from shore in Florida salt waters.

Bottom line is, the number of resident and non-resident anglers is increasing, and bills have to be paid if Florida anglers expect quality fishing in the future. Boat ramps, game wardens and fish hatcheries do require some funding.

FS