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Snook permit for catch-and-release: do you need one?

As of / last verified: October 14, 2026 against official sources · Source: FWC: Recreational saltwater licenses & permits (snook permit)

Snook permit for catch-and-release in Florida: yes, you need one. FWC requires the snook permit, plus a saltwater fishing license, when taking or attempting to take snook, and targeting snook to release them counts. It costs $10 a year, residents can buy five years for $50, and it applies from shore too.

Quick answer

Answer: Yes. Required when taking or attempting to take snook, which includes catch-and-release
Cost: $10 per year; $50 for 5 years (residents only)
Also need: Florida saltwater fishing license (unless exempt)
Refunds: None, even if your region is closed to harvest

Some sources say the snook permit is only needed if you keep a fish. FWC's licensing page says otherwise. The permit is required, together with a saltwater fishing license, when taking or attempting to take snook, including from shore.

Common snook: side view for identification — Common snook. The permit is needed even if you release every fish. Photo: Bob Care, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary/NOAA. Public domain

Snook permit at a glance

Item	Detail
Annual permit	$10.00
Five-year permit	$50.00 (Florida residents only)
Required with	Recreational saltwater fishing license
Shore fishing	Permit still required
Catch-and-release	Permit still required (attempting to take)
Included in	Gold Sportsman's License

Don't get ticketed: checklist

Have both the saltwater license and the snook permit if you are targeting snook.
Check the season in your region before you buy. Sales are final.
Release snook outside the slot (28–33" Gulf, 28–32" Atlantic) or out of season.
Hook and line is the only legal gear for snook.

Permit steps

Go to GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, the Fish|Hunt FL app, call 1-888-347-4356, or visit a license agent.
Buy or confirm your saltwater fishing license.
Add the Snook permit ($10 for a year, or $50 for 5 years if you are a resident).
Carry proof while fishing.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a snook permit to catch and release snook in Florida?

Yes. FWC requires the snook permit, on top of a saltwater fishing license, when taking or attempting to take snook. Targeting snook to release them is attempting to take, so the permit applies.

How much is a Florida snook permit?

$10 for one year. Florida residents can buy a five-year permit for $50. Sales are final, even if snook season is closed where you fish.

Do I need a snook permit when fishing from shore?

Yes. FWC says the permit is required including when fishing from the shoreline.

Is the snook permit included in any license?

Yes. FWC lists the Snook permit among the permits included in the Gold Sportsman's License.

Official sources

Last verified: October 14, 2026.

Related guides

Disclaimer: This page is a plain-English summary for general information. It is not legal advice. Rules, seasons and boundaries can change at short notice, including by emergency order. Always check the current regulations on MyFWC.com before you fish.