A Florida vacation has so much to do - many people base their vacation plans around the theme parks, whilst others are attracted by the golf, shopping, restaurants, sport etc. And, of course, the weather.
Many visitors seek to try some fishing whilst on their vacation, as a very relaxing way to soak up the sun's rays whilst letting the world go by, without a single thought about work!
Regulation
But a little preparation is needed - fishing is very heavily regulated in Florida, and these thoughts are presented as a summary to avoid breaching the regulations. But regulations do change - so it is essential to check that your day's fishing remains legal. Freshwater Fishing regulations are updated annually, and can be collected (free of charge) at outlets selling fishing equipment, such as Wal-Mart.
Firstly, a licence is required - this can be obtained from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The licence is not expensive, and can be purchased for a 7 day period from the Commission's website (the licence can be mailed, but payment allows you to start fishing immediately, without waiting for the licence to arrive through the post).
There are exemptions from the licence fee - but many anglers choose to support the commission by purchasing a licence, even though they may be exempt (eg senior, juniors).
Where to fish
Finding a lake to fish is never a problem - they are plentiful, each with their own specific requirements (eg whether swimming or camping is permitted, types of fish which must be released, limits on catches etc). The Kissimmee Chain consists of Lake Toho, East Lake Toho, Lake Cypress, Lake Hatchineha, Lake Kissimmee, and the canals that connect them. Other lakes connected by natural creeks are Lakes Tiger, Marion, Jackson, Rosalie, and Walk-in-the-Water. There are other chains of lakes just a little further afield.
Where to Buy Fishing Equipment
For general supplies, a trip to the local Wal-Mart may be all that is required. There are several 24 hour superstores in the Kissimmee area. For more specialist equipment, try one of the dedicated stores, such as Bass Pro (a large store at the Festival Bay Outlets at the top end of International Drive).
Sea Fishing
If freshwater fishing is not your choice, try sea fishing - there are plenty of charter opportunities from the wonderful beaches along the Gulf Coast. Trips can be for just a couple of hours or all day - to suit your requirements and enthusiasm.
The One That Got Away
If all else fails, stop off at the supermarket for a choice of fabulous freshly caught fish!
Many visitors seek to try some fishing whilst on their vacation, as a very relaxing way to soak up the sun's rays whilst letting the world go by, without a single thought about work!
Regulation
But a little preparation is needed - fishing is very heavily regulated in Florida, and these thoughts are presented as a summary to avoid breaching the regulations. But regulations do change - so it is essential to check that your day's fishing remains legal. Freshwater Fishing regulations are updated annually, and can be collected (free of charge) at outlets selling fishing equipment, such as Wal-Mart.
Firstly, a licence is required - this can be obtained from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The licence is not expensive, and can be purchased for a 7 day period from the Commission's website (the licence can be mailed, but payment allows you to start fishing immediately, without waiting for the licence to arrive through the post).
There are exemptions from the licence fee - but many anglers choose to support the commission by purchasing a licence, even though they may be exempt (eg senior, juniors).
Where to fish
Finding a lake to fish is never a problem - they are plentiful, each with their own specific requirements (eg whether swimming or camping is permitted, types of fish which must be released, limits on catches etc). The Kissimmee Chain consists of Lake Toho, East Lake Toho, Lake Cypress, Lake Hatchineha, Lake Kissimmee, and the canals that connect them. Other lakes connected by natural creeks are Lakes Tiger, Marion, Jackson, Rosalie, and Walk-in-the-Water. There are other chains of lakes just a little further afield.
Where to Buy Fishing Equipment
For general supplies, a trip to the local Wal-Mart may be all that is required. There are several 24 hour superstores in the Kissimmee area. For more specialist equipment, try one of the dedicated stores, such as Bass Pro (a large store at the Festival Bay Outlets at the top end of International Drive).
Sea Fishing
If freshwater fishing is not your choice, try sea fishing - there are plenty of charter opportunities from the wonderful beaches along the Gulf Coast. Trips can be for just a couple of hours or all day - to suit your requirements and enthusiasm.
The One That Got Away
If all else fails, stop off at the supermarket for a choice of fabulous freshly caught fish!