NAPLES, Fla. - Thousands of anglers will hit the Southwest Florida coastline this weekend to fish, but soon, this favorite past time for many, won't be free.

John McHugh likes to fish on a quiet part of Naples Beach a few times a week, but when July is over, he won't be able to enjoy this relaxing past time for free. Beginning August First, Florida residents 16 and older, who want to saltwater fish from shore, will need a license.

"I don't agree with that at all. No way!" McHugh says.

Many docks, piers, and bridges are also included in the new regulations, but the Naples Pier is exempt. That's because the city has a license that covers everyone fishing here.

But, even some of those fishing up here, don't like the license idea.

"They're dipping into the pockets of the residents, just to save a few bucks for the tourists coming through, and I just don't think its right," Les Bates says.

But Les Bates brother, Les, disagrees.

"I guess its a good idea. Depends no what they do with it," the other Les Bates says.

In the past, only out of state anglers needed a shoreline license. The state says requiring a license for residents will be beneficial come next year, because it will exempt Florida from more expensive federal license requirements.

Even though it comes down to only pennies a day, some anglers say they'd rather fish from a licensed pier, than pay to fish on shore just feet away.

"No way! Its just the point you know. To me its ridiculous," McHugh says.

The licenses go on sale July 15th at county tax collector offices and many fish and tackle stores. You can also order on-line through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission by calling 888-FISH-FLORIDA or on-line.

Under the new law, residents who fish from the shore with a cane pole still will be exempt from the license requirement. So will senior citizens, active military personnel while home on leave, anglers fishing from a licensed pier, those drawing food stamps, and those receiving temporary cash assistance or Medicaid.