The exemption for FL residents over 65 from fishing/hunting license fees is yet another incentive to become a FL resident. Here in CT I pay nearly $100 a year for the various, freshwater, trout, saltwater, hunting, deer tag, turkey licenses and tags. I am currently a CT resident and a veteran over 65.
On the issue of catch and release, according to published sources and depending on water temperature, species and a few other factors I recall that the mortality in such cases is on the order of 20% +/-. That being said, I typically FlyFish or use artificial lures with spinning gear which tends to minimize trauma to the catch, and by extension helps preserve the fishery for others.
As Izaak Walton observed in his work “The Complete Angler” first published in 1653, highlights FlyFishing and explores the meditative and contemplative aspects of angling as a means to connect to nature and find peace. The act of casting, presenting a fly, and waiting for a strike is in and of itself a mindful and engaging activity apart from the actual catch and if needed harvesting of the fish.
I look forward to the day I become a FL resident.
|