Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has unveiled a new initiative aimed at promoting outdoor activities and encouraging Floridians to explore the state’s natural beauty. The “Great Outdoors Initiative” will provide discounts on state park passes and hunting and fishing licenses. This initiative seeks to boost engagement with Florida’s state parks, recreational areas, and waterways.
Starting from Saturday, October 14, 2023, and running through January 13, 2024, residents can take advantage of significant discounts on annual state park passes and Gold Sportsman hunting and fishing licenses. Governor DeSantis signed an executive order directing both the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to implement these discounted rates.
The discounted rates available until January 13, 2024, are as follows:
- Florida State Parks Family Annual Pass: $60, plus tax
- Florida State Parks Individual Annual Pass: $30, plus tax
- FWC Annual Gold Sportsman licenses: $50.75, plus applicable fees
- FWC Five-year Gold Sportsman: $247.75, plus applicable fees
- FWC Lifetime Sportsman License: Age 4 or younger – $201.50, Ages 5-12 – $351.50, Ages 13 and older – $501.50, plus applicable fees
In announcing the Great Outdoors Initiative, Governor DeSantis highlighted the exceptional natural resources that Florida has to offer. He encouraged all Floridians to take advantage of these discounts, emphasizing the state’s magnificent parks, waterways, and recreational lands. DeSantis stated, “Florida is home to some of the best state parks, waterways, and recreational lands in the country, and I encourage all Floridians to get outdoors, experience our extraordinary natural resources, and enjoy our fundamental right to hunt and fish. And we are now making it more affordable for families to get outside and enjoy these wonders by offering state park passes and fishing and hunting licenses at sharply discounted rates.”
In a nod to the state’s hunting and fishing traditions, DeSantis cited the Legislature’s passage of House Joint Resolution 1157 earlier in 2023. This resolution proposed an amendment to Article 1 of the Florida Constitution, guaranteeing the right to hunt and fish in the state.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Chairman Rodney Barreto underscored the state’s status as a prime destination for fishing and hunting opportunities, urging families to make the most of the discounted licenses and take part in the abundant recreational activities available in the state. Barreto stated, “Florida remains one of the country’s top destinations for world-class fishing and unique hunting opportunities. I encourage families to take advantage of this incredible offer with a discounted license and enjoy the abundant hunting and fishing recreational opportunities our state offers.”
Image/Source: WFLA
