Fishing & Boating Resources

Practical, evergreen boating and fishing information for Florida Keys waters. Use this page as a reference before heading out — for anchoring rules, weather resources, jurisdiction reminders, and general preparedness.

Weather & Storm Awareness

Check current conditions before every trip. Florida Keys weather can change quickly, especially during tropical season (June through November).

• NOAA Florida Keys Marine Weather — Current forecasts, wind, and sea conditions for Keys waters.
• National Hurricane Center Tropical Weather Outlook — Active storm tracking and tropical development outlooks.
• NOAA Tides & Currents — Tide predictions and current data for Florida coastal stations.

Long-Term Anchoring Permit Reminder

Florida boaters should be aware of long-term anchoring rules before leaving a vessel anchored for an extended period.

If a vessel remains anchored in Florida waters for 14 days or more within a 30-day period, a free electronic long-term anchoring permit is required through FWC.

Before anchoring for an extended stay, review the current FWC anchoring requirements and confirm whether a permit is needed for your vessel and location.

• FWC Long-Term Anchoring Permit Information

State vs. Federal Waters

Florida recreational harvesters should understand the difference between state and federal waters, as regulations, season dates, and bag limits can differ significantly.

• State waters generally extend 3 nautical miles offshore on the Atlantic side and 9 nautical miles on the Gulf side.
• Federal waters (Exclusive Economic Zone) begin where state waters end and extend to 200 nautical miles offshore.
• Some species — including spiny lobster — have different rules in state vs. federal waters. Always verify which jurisdiction applies to your fishing location before harvesting.
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) — Official source for Florida state fishing and harvesting regulations.
• NOAA Fisheries — Federal fisheries regulations and resources.

GEARXO Practical Checklist

Before heading out on Florida Keys waters, run through these basics:

• Check marine weather and tide conditions for your area.
• Confirm season dates, bag limits, and size requirements for any species you plan to harvest.
• Verify whether you are fishing in state or federal waters and which regulations apply.
• Ensure required safety equipment is aboard and up to date.
• If anchoring overnight or for an extended period, review FWC long-term anchoring permit requirements.
• Carry a valid Florida fishing license and any required harvest permits.

Related Resources

• Marine Briefing — Seasonal updates, regulation reminders, and gear notes from GEARXO.
• Lobster Harvesting Requirements — Season dates, gauge requirements, and FWC links for spiny lobster.
• Stone Crab Harvesting Requirements — Trap rules, claw-size requirements, and tagging guidance.

GEARXO Reminder

GEARXO provides marine tools and product education to help Florida harvesters stay prepared. Regulations, weather, and local conditions can change. Always verify current rules and conditions with official sources before heading out.

Updated as conditions and regulations change. Always verify current rules through official sources before heading out.