FWC Apalachicola Bay Endorsement Application Assistance
Need help applying for your Commercial Apalachicola Bay Endorsement?
Beginning January 1, 2026, the Apalachicola Bay oyster fishery will reopen to commercial and recreational harvest. An Apalachicola Bay (AB) Endorsement is required for commercial oyster harvest from the bay. The Apalachicola Bay Permit (AP) will no longer be issued.
Qualifications for the AB Endorsement for the January 2026 season:
- Individual or Crew Saltwater Products License (SPL) holder
- Shellfish (BV) Endorsement holder
- Florida resident
- Legal commercial wild oyster landings from Apalachicola Bay between 2012 and 2020
All qualified applicants could receive the AB Endorsement for the January 2026 season. The AB Endorsement can be renewed. The number of AB Endorsements issued for the January 2026 season will set the cap on participation for future seasons.
Apply online for the AB Endorsement at www.MyFWC.com/CLS. Applications will be accepted between November 10, 2025, and December 16, 2025.
If you need help with the application, FWC Staff will be at the FDACS Apalachicola Shellfish Center (260 Dr. Frederick S. Humphries Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320) from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on these dates:
- November 12–14
- November 17–21
- November 24–25
- December 1–2
- December 9–10
- December 15–16
Requirements BEFORE Applying
- Take the Shellfish Harvester Training Course
- Online: https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/commercial/shellfish/
- In person: 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday at the FDACS Apalachicola Shellfish Center (subject to change)
- Secure your Crew or Individual Saltwater Products License (SPL) and Shellfish (BV) Endorsement
For more information, call (850) 487-0554 or email Marine@MyFWC.com.