Florida Friendly Fishing Guide Certification
The Florida Friendly Fishing Guide Certification was established by UF/IFAS, Florida Sea Grant and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to recognize fishing guides who are committed to preserving the future of Florida’s fisheries through sustainable boating and fishing techniques.
Florida Friendly Fishing Guides provide a richer fishing experience for their clients through their angling expertise and environmental stewardship. As such, the Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) is highlighting guides who have completed the certification on our website.
Become a Florida Friendly Fishing Guide
Participation in the Florida Friendly Fishing Guide program is voluntary and involves no regulatory component. The course is online, and covers science-based techniques that ensure a minimal environmental footprint when fishing.
You can access the course via computer, smart phone, or tablet. The course takes approximately four hours and can be completed at your own pace in 20- to 30-minute chunks, if desired.
Once you complete the course, you can display your certification on your website and vessel, letting your customers will know that you adhere to the highest environmental standards.
The certification is valid for three years, and you will also be listed on the Florida Sea Grant website as a certified guide.
The $130 fee covers gear for the welcome packages for certified guides, program upkeep and evaluation, and administrative expenses such as web hosting.
The course covers
- Introduction to Fisheries Management
- Best Practices for Catch and Release Fishing
- Seafood Safety and Handling
- Sustainable Waste Management and Fueling
- Overview of Marine Ecology
- Environmental Ethics
- Sustainable On-board Materials
- Giving Back to Fisheries Management and Research
We encourage all local fishing guides to explore the program, for the benefit of your business and the environment. Start the process here.
