Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Tips from
the Pros
page 6
C ontents
Fish and wildlife alert Fishing Capital of the World– Special bag and length limits ........... 12
reward program Welcome ......................................... 2
Fish identification chart ................... 13
Report fishing, boating or hunting New regulations ................................ 4
law violations by calling toll-free Black bass fishing zones ................... 14
1-888-404-FWCC (3922); on Introduction
cell phones, dial *FWC or #FWC Major changes Florida Bass Conservation Center .... 15
depending on service carrier; or FWC contact information Recreational fishing and licenses
report violations online at and regional map — Why and what for? .................16-17
MyFWC.com/Law.
Freshwater fishes & Angling ethics .................................. 17
bass tips from the pros....................6-7
General regulations for fish
Fishing license management areas ........................ 20
Instant requirements and fees....................... 8
Specific fish management area
license privileges Resident fishing licenses
regulations ................................20-25
Obtain license privileges, 24 hours Nonresident fishing licenses
Northwest Region
a day, via MyFWC.com/License or by Lifetime and 5-year licenses
North Central Region
calling toll-free 1-888-FISHFLORIDA Freshwater license exemptions
Northeast Region
(1-888-347-4356). Processing fees
Methods of taking freshwater fish..... 10 Southwest Region
will apply on sales via telephone
and Internet. A unique license Federal Aid in Sportfish Restoration .. 10 South Region
number allows you to begin fishing
Game and nongame “Big Catch” Angler Recognition ....... 26
immediately after the transaction.
freshwater fish .......................... 10-11
Butterfly Peacock — Breaking
Grass carp and alligator gar restrictions with Tradition . ............................... 27
Prohibited gear for taking marine fish in Fish consumption advisory . ..........28-29
fresh water.................................... 11 Florida safe eating guidelines
Stop the spread of Methods of taking bait .................... 11 Frequently answered questions ....29-30
non-native species
Use of fish for bait ........................... 11
It is illegal to release any non-
native fish or any other non-native Taking mussels and clams ................ 11
organism into the waters of the Statewide bag and length limits........ 12
state. To find out more visit MyFWC. How to measure your catch
com/Fishing/Fishes/non-native.html
e J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC is proud This lunker of a Florida largemouth bass was
your subscription today online at
to print the official Florida Freshwater caught on a soft plastic salamander before
FloridaWildlifeMagazine.com or call
Fishing Regulations summary on post- being released for another lucky angler.
toll-free 1-866-967-5600.
consumer recycled paper. Photo Courtesy of: Dusan Smetana
BP322560
Introduction Center. For 2008, Joe Budd Pond will be ■■ Nongame freshwater fish may be taken
This free publication is provided as a guide closed to fishing, except as authorized by with cast nets of any mesh size in the South
to Florida fishing laws and regulations. The permit for Commission-sanctioned events. and Northeast regions, in Citrus County,
Florida Wildlife Code is the final authority on Open to fishing during daylight hours on and in most of the Southwest Region. The
fishing laws (www.FLrules.org). The Florida July 4, 2008 and Saturdays and Sundays exception is that possession or use of cast
Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission from July 5th through August 31, and Labor nets in waters adjoining Saddle Creek FMA
(FWC) strives to ensure information in this Day (Monday, September 1) 2008, as speci- (in Polk County) is prohibited. This rule
booklet is accurate but assumes no liability fied by order of the Executive Director. removes the size limit on cast nets in the
for typographical errors that may occur in this ■■ At Tenoroc FMA (Polk County), visitors South Region.
publication. Contact the FWC if you have ques- may check in and out at additional desig- ■■ A new rule requires fishing gear such as
tions not adequately covered in this booklet; nated entry points and permitted alligator hoop nets, wire traps, slat baskets, trotlines,
see contact list and map below. This publication hunters are exempt from the requirement bush hooks and setlines to be clearly and
is valid only from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009. to enter at designated entry points. The legibly marked with the fisherman’s name
rule also renamed lakes East Pasture and and address. This enables better enforce-
Major changes West Pasture to Pine Lakes and increased ment and removal of abandoned gear or
■■ A new rule prohibits taking of fish or wildlife angling opportunities in these two lakes improperly positioned gear, such as gear
with firearms on 38 fish management areas to include licensed anglers when ac- that is in too shallow water, which would
(FMAs), rather than completely prohibiting companied by a child under 16 years old. create a navigation hazard.
firearms on those areas. Other changes at Tenoroc include limiting ■■ The black bass length regulation on Lake
■■ The following lakes associated with the Fish discharge of firearms to the firing range Okeechobee is now an 18-inch or greater
Orlando! project have been removed from or at FWC-sponsored events and requiring minimum length limit. Also, a new rule
the fish management area system: lakes dogs to be leashed, except as authorized establishes a 10-inch or greater minimum
Lorna Doone (Orange County); Richmond by FWC. length for black crappie on the lake. Bag
(Orange County); Kirkman Pond (Orange ■■ Another rule change redefined species limits remain unchanged.
County); and Lake Dot (Seminole County). that may be taken with a dip net, cast net ■■ In addition, the boundary definition for
The rule also prohibits possession and use of (1-inch maximum stretched mesh), trap or Lake Okeechobee now includes that por-
cast nets in lakes Ivanhoe (Orange County) minnow seine for use as bait. Those species tion of the C-41-A Canal from the intersec-
and Santiago (Orange County), which are golden shiners of any size and other tion of the C-38 Canal upstream to the S-84
remain part of the Fish Orlando! project. freshwater nongame fish (including catfish) structure.
■■ The dates Joe Budd Pond FMA (Gadsden less than 8 inches total length, unless ■■ The black bass regulation on Lake Trafford
County) are open to public fishing will be es- specifically prohibited. This replaces less- was changed and specifies that all bass
tablished by executive order to allow chang- specific language that previously referred must be 18 inches or greater in total length
es to be tailored to changing conditions to minnows of nongame fish. and only one bass may be 22 inches or
related to fish camp dates and classroom
greater in total length.
activities at Joe Budd Aquatic Education
./24(7%34
$10
COUPON VALID THROUGH 6/30/09
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Limit one coupon per customer. Minimum purchase of $50 before sales tax. Total amount of coupon must be redeemed at one time. Cannot be
combined with any other offers, coupons or Guaranteed In-Stock markdown, or used for licenses or previously purchased merchandise. Coupon valid
on in-store purchases only. Not redeemable for cash, gift cards or store credit. No reproductions or rain checks accepted. Excludes firearms, ammunition,
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for details. ASSOCIATE: Scan barcode and take a group discount markdown. Valid through 6/30/09.
GP
Chugging a Frog
By DEAN ROJAS, 2007 Bassmaster Classic Qualifier, holds current BASS
S
single-day five fish weight record of 45 lbs. 2 oz. caught on Lake Kissimmee
The type of retrieve most often used with a frog is a steady and fairly fast
presentation across floating and matted vegetation.
U p g ra d e y o u r
When I chug a frog across surface vegetation however, I use a very slow
stop-and-go presentation rather than a fast one. I think this gives the fish a
b es t f i s h i n g
to the ail
better strike opportunity and you get better hookups.
With this retrieve, I do not trim the frog’s legs, and I still move the lure with
the rod, not the reel. The rod tip is down and continually jerking.
I think the thing to
remember about frog
det
fishing is that fish are go-
ing to relate to whatever
cover and structure a
lake has, so you can, and Upgrade your Lowrance software
should, expect a strike at lowrance.com/downloads then
on literally every cast.
Because I have caught
Upgrade to Navionics
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even in open water with- and get CASH BACK for your old chart!
out any visible cover, I Ask your Authorized Navionics Dealer Today!
want to put everything in
my favor that I can when
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Continues on page 14
Underwritten by Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates, Mayfield Village, OH. Available in most states and situations. Optional Fishing
Equipment Coverage is subject to policy terms, and is not available for all boats and coverage selections. ©2008 Progressive Casualty Insurance Company.
08D00253 (04/08)
methods of ta k ing fish
10 2008-2009
methods of ta k ing fish
Clown knifefish
Native to Southeast Asia
Art by Diane Peebles
Largemouth Bass
Channel Catfish
northwest
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features . . .
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Order your
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Online at
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Note: These are general black bass fishing zones, see the Specific Fish Management Area, 1-866-967-5600
and Special Bag and Length Limit sections for more local rules.
F
Fishing has provided recreation for at least 3,000 years
going back to a time when Pharaohs enjoyed the sport
for recreation and the challenge, not just for food. Anglers
still tell researchers they fish to relax and to get away
cases) and to help ensure the safe, sustainable future of their
sport. In comparison, the average court fee for playing tennis in
2006 was $16-$20 (nonpeak; RacquetSportsIndustry.com) and a
membership typically cost $768 per year. A round of golf costs
from everyday stresses; to spend time with family and $45-64 per game, which lasts about four hours whereas bowling
friends; and to enjoy the outdoors. Reasons such as to be costs about $3.50 per game and lasts 20 minutes. So by most
challenged, to catch a limit of fish or to try to catch a trophy any standards, fishing is still an outstanding recreational value.
are typically secondary reasons. In other more eloquent It is made all the more worthwhile because your purchase of a
words, Henry David Thoreau said, “Many men go fishing license is an investment in the safe and sustainable future of a
all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are lifetime recreation that is an American tradition connecting us
after.” back to our roots and to nature. Maybe that helps explain why
Something else that many anglers don’t know is the recreational fishing is enjoyed by more Americans than play
“why” and “what for” of fishing. Thaddeus Norris, in his both golf and tennis combined.
1864 publication “The American Angler’s Book,” was among Florida remains the “Fishing Capital of the World,” with
the first to specifically refer to the need for conservation. more anglers than any other state--2.8 million, of whom 1.4
Even then it was obvious that without careful management million fish in freshwater (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
and stewardship, our fisheries resources could not National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated
withstand the changes in habitat and various forms of Recreation, 2006). Anglers enjoyed 46.3 million days of
fishing pressure, both commercial and recreational. recreational fishing in Florida in 2006 (the second highest
Consequently, the public started calling for government state was Texas with 41.1 million days),
management of these shared resources and turned to and 24.5 million of the
fishing licenses to pay for scientific management and days spent fishing
enforcement. in Florida were in
In Florida, counties independently collected their fresh water (vs.
own fishing license fees until 1925 when the State 23.1 million in
Department of Game and salt water). The
Fresh Water recreational fishing
Fish sold impact to Florida’s
the first economy in 2006
statewide was $7.5 billion (the
fishing second highest state
licenses was California with
to support $4.8 billion). In addition,
conservation. Florida is the number one
The prices were fishing destination for tourists
$2 for out-of-county with 885,000 anglers visiting and
residents, free for county residents, and $5 for out-of-state spending over $1 billion (No. 2 was Wisconsin with 381,000
anglers. Back then $2 could buy what $23 buys today. As anglers spending $0.6 billion). To almost all of us though, it
of October 2007, the $15.50 fee resident anglers pay for a isn’t the numbers or dollars that matter, it is the quality of life
fishing license remains below the national average cost for and living that is associated with recreational activities and
a fishing license. Their license enables anglers to fish as living in a healthy environment that is most important.
often as they want (on average about 17 trips per year), for To conserve our natural aquatic resources for their own
as long as they want, to harvest their own meal (in many well– being and for the pleasure of our residents and tourists,
the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) uses the best
scientific management possible. To fund those efforts, the Legislature sets
fishing license fees and exemptions, as well as penalties for violating fish and
wildlife conservation laws. A state law guarantees all money from sale of fishing
licenses goes to the FWC to help fulfill its mission of “managing fish and wildlife
resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.”
Moreover, in 1950, congressmen Dingell and Johnson, at the request of Angler’s Code of
anglers and the outdoor industry, created the original Federal Aid in Sport Fish
Restoration (SFR) program wherein fishing tackle was assessed an excise fee Ethics
with the monies returned to the states for fish restoration projects. The “Wallop-
Breaux” amendment in 1984 expanded the act by adding import duties on
1. Supports conservation efforts.
sport fishing equipment, pleasure boats and yachts as well as tax revenue from
motorboat fuel sales. As a result, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reimburses 2. Practices effective catch-
states using these funds at the rate of $3 for every $4 spent on qualifying projects. and-release of fish that are
The result is one of the most successful “user-pays, user-benefits” programs in unwanted or prohibited to
the world, with taxes from sale of outdoor recreation supplies directly enhancing retain.
and promoting the resource. 3. Doesn’t pollute; recycles and
The amount of money Florida receives from SFR is based on the size of disposes of trash.
the state and the number of paid licensed anglers, not licenses and permits, 4. Practices safe angling and
but the people who hold them. As an example, an angler having a freshwater boating, including hook
license, a saltwater license and a snook permit counts only once. Since Florida awareness and use of personal
does not charge license fees for youths under 16, adults over 65, or resident flotation devices (PFDs).
saltwater anglers fishing from shore, Florida recovers a somewhat smaller
proportion of these funds than other states do. This is becoming an increasing 5. Learns and obeys fishing and
problem as other states adjust their license structures to maximize the number boating rules and
of paid license holders they certify for federal aid and thus recover a greater regulations, and purchases
proportion of the excise taxes on tackle and motor boat fuel taxes paid by our appropriate licenses.
anglers. Each certified holder generates approximately $7 more for sport fish 6. Respects other anglers’ and
restoration, providing $13 million for Florida in 2008. Of those monies, 15 percent boaters’ rights.
went to boating access building and repairing ramps and courtesy docks. The
7. Respects property owners’
remainder went to fresh and saltwater fisheries conservation projects such as
rights and does not trespass.
habitat restoration, fish stocking, conservation law enforcement, artificial reefs
construction and youth fishing clinics. 8. Shares fishing knowledge and
Consequently, the FWC encourages all anglers to buy a license (MyFWC.com/ skills.
License). Even if you are legally exempt, you can contribute to the future of our 9. Doesn’t release live bait into
fisheries resources and the health of our habitat by buying a license and helping waters or spread exotic plants
us obtain the matching $7 contribution from the federal SFR program. and fish.
Recreational fishing often is portrayed in advertising because it is an enjoyable, 10. Promotes ethical sport fishing
wholesome experience that reflects a happy and healthy lifestyle. The FWC is and encourages others to
working hard to ensure safe and sustainable recreational fishing for all of our reconnect on the water.
residents and guests and depends on your license fees to make sure there are
fish for tomorrow.
Lake Piney Z, Leon County: open to Joe Budd Pond, Gadsden County: Closed
fishing. to fishing, except as authorized by permit
■■ Black bass must be released immediately. for Commission-sanctioned events. Open to
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 fishing during daylight hours on July 4, 2008
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 and Saturdays and Sundays from July 5th
through August 31, and Labor Day (Monday,
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife September 1) 2008, as specified by order of
with firearms or possession of alcoholic the Executive Director.
beverages are prohibited.
No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and
■■ Watercraft shall be allowed only as autho- fishing fingers.
rized by the City of Tallahassee. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
■■ Access is prohibited from sunset until ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
sunrise.
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
Lake Victor, Holmes County: open to ■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 10
Regulations for fish fishing. ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total
■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
management areas ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
length must be released immediately
1. A fishing license is required for residents ■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and North Central Region
from 16 to 64 years of age, and for non- fishing fingers. (see map on page 4 for regions)
residents 16 or more years of age, to fish
by any method, including cane poles, on a
Merritt’s Mill Pond, Jackson County: open St. Augustine Road ponds (North and
Fish Management Area. Refer to Fishing to fishing. South), Duval County: open to fishing from
License Fees for exemptions (page 8). ■■ The taking of fish and wildlife with rifles is 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes
prohibited. after sunset.
2. The possession of fishing tackle is prohib-
■■ Gigs are prohibited. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
ited on any Fish Management Area that is
closed to fishing. ■■ Trotlines may be used. ■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with
■■ Redear sunfish (shellcracker) bag limit: 10 firearms or possession of alcoholic bever-
3. Bag limits and methods of taking fresh-
■■ Redear sunfish less than 10 inches in total ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited.
water fish apply except as provided for a
length must be released immediately. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
particular Fish Management Area.
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
4. The possession of nets (other than legal
minnow seines, cast nets or dip nets), fish ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total
Hurricane Lake, Okaloosa County: open length must be released immediately.
traps, trotlines or setlines is prohibited to fishing.
unless specifically authorized by rules ■■ Black bass less than 18 inches in total Oceanway Pond, Duval County: open to
established for a particular Fish Manage- length must be released immediately. fishing from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30
ment Area. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. minutes after sunset.
5. Persons entering or leaving Fish Manage- ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
ment Areas that have designated entry ■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with
■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and firearms or possession of alcoholic bever-
points shall enter or leave only at such fishing fingers.
designated points. ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited.
6. Any vehicle, boat or other transportation Karick Lake, Okaloosa County: open to ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
device may be searched while in, entering fishing. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
or leaving a Fish Management Area. ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 length must be released immediately.
7. Fish Management Areas may be temporar-
ily closed to accommodate management ■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and
fishing fingers. Hanna Park ponds, Duval County: open to
projects (e.g., drawdowns), or if unsafe fishing from 30 minutes before sunrise until
conditions exist, or as otherwise specified Lake Stone, Escambia County: open to 30 minutes after sunset.
in a specific Fish Management Area rule. fishing. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
8. Intentional release of wildlife or fresh- ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ taking of fish or wildlife with firearms or
water fish on Fish Management Areas is ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 possession of alcoholic beverages, and use
prohibited. ■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and of cast nets are prohibited.
fishing fingers. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
Northwest Region
Bear Lake, Santa Rosa County: open to ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
(see map on page 4 for regions)
fishing. ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total
Juniper Bay Lake, Walton County: open to ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. length must be released immediately.
fishing.
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Pope Duval East and West ponds, Duval
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and County: open to fishing from 30 minutes
fishing fingers. before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset.
■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with
firearms or possession of alcoholic bever-
ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited.
Wildlife alert! ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
Report fishing, boating or hunting law violations by calling toll-free 1-888- ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
404-FWCC (3922); on cell phones, dial *FWC or #FWC depending on ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total
length must be released immediately.
service carrier; or report violations online at MyFWC.com/Law.
Bethesda Pond, Duval County: open to Alligator Lake, Columbia County: open to ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length
fishing from 30 minutes before sunrise until fishing. must be released immediately.
30 minutes after sunset. ■■ Fishing is prohibited in Ponderosa Pond ■■ No bag limit on channel catfish.
■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. except for authorized groups permitted by
FWC. Koon Lake, Lafayette County: open to
■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with
fishing.
firearms or possession of alcoholic bever- ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
■■ taking of fish or wildlife with firearms is
ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited.
Eagle Lake, Hamilton County: open to fish- prohibited.
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ing from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 ■■ No bag limit on channel catfish.
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 minutes after sunset.
■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. Montgomery Lake, Columbia County:
length must be released immediately. ■■ Swimming and taking of fish or wildlife open to fishing.
with firearms are prohibited. ■■ Boats are restricted to idle speed - no wake.
Huguenot Pond, Duval County: open to ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total
fishing from 30 minutes before sunrise until ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
length must be released immediately.
30 minutes after sunset. Ronnie Vanzant Park, Clay County: open
■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10
to fishing from 30 minutes before sunrise
■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length
until 30 minutes after sunset.
must be released immediately.
firearms or possession of alcoholic bever- ■■ Boats or any floating vessel apparatus are
ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited. prohibited. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ No swimming or camping. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ No person 16 years of age or older shall fish Watertown Lake, Columbia County: open
■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total unless accompanied by an angler less than to fishing.
length must be released immediately. 16 years of age. ■■ taking of fish or wildlife with firearms is
■■ Fishing permitted only with hook and line prohibited.
Crystal Springs Park, Duval County: open
to fishing from 30 minutes before sunrise or rod and reel. ■■ Watercraft shall be operated only at idle
until 30 minutes after sunset. ■■ Nets are prohibited, except for dip nets. speed before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. daily.
■■ No person over 16 years shall fish unless ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total
accompanied by an angler less than 16 length must be released immediately. length must be released immediately.
years of age or by an angler 65 years of ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10
age or older, by a disabled angler or by an ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length
angler who is a client of the Florida Depart- must be released immediately.
ment of Health. Lake Lochloosa, including Tadpole and
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with Lochloosa creeks; Orange Lake, including
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
firearms or possession of alcoholic bever- Orange Lake proper, and waters south
ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited. and east of CR 346, and west of U.S. Lang Lake, Hamilton County: open to fish-
■■ Boats are prohibited. ing from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30
Highway 301; and Cross Creek; Alachua
minutes after sunset.
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 and Marion counties: open to fishing. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Black bass 15 inches or more in total length
and less than 24 inches must be released ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total
immediately. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
length must be released immediately.
■■ Black bass bag limit: 3 ■■ Black bass less than 18 inches in total
Camp Blanding area, Clay County: Indefi- length must be released immediately.
nitely closed by the Army National Guard for ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish.
■■ Trotlines having a gallon-sized plastic float ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length
security reasons. If the area is reopened to must be released immediately.
fishing, the following rules are in effect: Mag- at each end may be used, provided that
nolia and Lowry Lakes will be open to fishing such lines are sunk to the bottom or to a ■■ Taking of fish or wildlife with firearms is
on days and times determined by Camp minimum depth of 4 feet. prohibited, except by written permission of
Blanding Post Commander. Openings may the landowner.
Newnans Lake, Alachua County: open to
be changed at discretion of Post Commander fishing. Northeast Region
to accommodate military training. All anglers ■■ Trotlines having a gallon-sized plastic float
will be required to check into and out of area (see map on page 4 for regions)
at each end may be used, provided that
at a manned check station. such lines are sunk to the bottom or to a East Lake Tohopekaliga, Osceola County:
■■ Guns are prohibited for taking of fish or minimum depth of 4 feet. open to fishing.
wildlife except during designated hunting ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish.
seasons for Camp Blanding Wildlife Man- ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish.
■■ Minnow lift nets and trotlines may be used.
agement Area. Suwannee Lake, Suwannee County: open
■■ Boat launching permitted only at desig- to fishing. Lake Jackson, Osceola County: open to
nated areas. ■■ No camping. fishing.
■■ Camping is prohibited. ■■ No motor vehicles on dam and fishing ■■ Cast nets, minnow lift nets and minnow
fingers. seines are prohibited.
■■ During periods closed to hunting, vehicles
may be operated only on roads to desig- ■■ taking of fish or wildlife with firearms ■■ Black bass must be released immediately.
nated access areas. or possession of alcoholic beverages is ■■ Crappie less than 12 inches in total length
■■ Use of all-terrain vehicles is prohibited. prohibited. must be released immediately.
■■ All watercraft shall be operated at idle ■■ Access to the area from 30 minutes after ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish.
speed only. sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise for
any use other than fishing and launching
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
and loading of boats is prohibited.
■■ Black bass less than 18 inches in total
length must be released immediately.
(Continued on page 22)
Lake Marian, Osceola County: open to Hal-Scott Lake, Orange County: open to Lake Underhill, Orange County: open to
fishing. fishing. fishing.
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife
■■ Minnow lift nets, fish traps and trotlines with firearms or possession of alcoholic with firearms or possession of alcoholic
may be used. beverages are prohibited. beverages are prohibited.
■■Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Cast nets are prohibited.
Lakes Tohopekaliga (West Lake Toho-
■■Cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
pekaliga), Cypress, Hatchineha, and
■■Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
Kissimmee, Osceola and Polk counties:
open to fishing. ■■Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Black bass must be released immediately.
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■Black bass must be released immediately. Secret Lake, Seminole County: open to
■■ Minnow lift nets, fish traps and trotlines Bear Creek Park, Orange County: open fishing.
may be used. to fishing. ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife with firearms or possession of alcoholic
Lake Panasoffkee, Sumter County: open
with firearms or possession of alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
to fishing.
■■ Trotlines may be used. beverages are prohibited. ■■ Personal watercraft are prohibited.
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■Cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Cast nets are prohibited.
■■Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
Chain of Lakes, Lake County (Cook, ■■Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
Winona, Palatlakaha, Crescent, Louisa,
Shadow Bay Park, Orange County: open ■■ Black bass must be released immediately.
Minnehaha, Hiawatha, Minneola, Wilson,
Susan and Cherry): open to fishing. to fishing. Lake Blue Cypress, Indian River County:
■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until ■■Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife open to fishing.
9 a.m. with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Trotlines may be used.
beverages are prohibited. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish.
■■ No bag limit on channel catfish.
■■Cast nets are prohibited.
Lake Griffin, Lake County: open to fishing. ■■Bluegill bag limit: 5 Southwest Region
■■ Trotlines are prohibited from 9 a.m. Friday (see map on page 4 for regions)
■■Bluegill less than 12 inches in total length
until one hour before sunset on Sunday.
must be released immediately. Lake Tarpon, Pinellas County: open to
■■ Trotlines are prohibited from 9 a.m. until
■■Channel catfish bag limit: 1 fishing.
one hour before sunset Monday through
Thursday from May 1 through October 31. ■■Channel catfish less than 30 inches in total ■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9
length must be released immediately. a.m. Sunday through Thursday.
■■ No trotline may be secured to or fished
within 50 yards of a private pier or dock. ■■Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish.
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. Clear Lake, Orange County: open to Lake Seminole, Pinellas County: open to
fishing. fishing.
Pellicer Pond, Flagler County: open to
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9
fishing.
with firearms or possession of alcoholic a.m.
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
beverages are prohibited. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish.
Lake Dias, Volusia County: open to fishing. ■■Cast nets are prohibited.
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. Bobby Hicks Park Pond, Hillsborough
■■Channel catfish bag limit: 6
County: open to fishing.
Fox Lake, Brevard County: open to fishing. Lake Lawne, Orange County: open to ■■ Cast nets and minnow seines are prohib-
■■ No airboats for fishing or frogging. fishing. ited.
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Swimming and taking of fish or wildlife
South Lake, Brevard County: open to with firearms or possession of alcoholic with firearms are prohibited.
beverages are prohibited. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
fishing.
■■ No airboats for fishing or frogging. ■■Cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately.
■■ Trotlines may be used. ■■Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. Starke Lake, Orange County: open to ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length
fishing. must be released immediately.
Lake Ivanhoe, Orange County: open to
■■Cast nets and minnow seines are prohib- ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
fishing.
ited.
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■No bag limit for channel catfish.
Gadsden Park Pond, Hillsborough County:
beverages are prohibited. Turkey Lake, Orange County: open to open to fishing.
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 fishing. ■■ Cast nets and minnow seines are
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife prohibited.
■■ Cast nets are prohibited. with firearms or possession of alcoholic
■■ Swimming and taking of fish or wildlife
beverages are prohibited.
Lake Santiago in Demetree Park, Orange with firearms are prohibited.
■■Cast nets are prohibited.
County: open to fishing. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
■■Panfish bag limit: 20
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Black bass must be released immediately.
■■Channel catfish bag limit: 6
with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10
beverages are prohibited. ■■Black bass must be released immediately.
■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length
■■ Boats are prohibited. ■■Except for sanctioned events, gasoline mo- must be released immediately.
tors may not be used on boats.
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
■■ Cast nets are prohibited.
Lake Thonotosassa, Hillsborough County: and deposit their valid fishing or hunting Picnic Lake:
open to fishing. license with the custodian unless otherwise ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9 instructed. Permitted alligator hunt partici- ■■ Black bass bag limit: 2
a.m. Sunday through Thursday. pants are exempt from the requirement to
■■ Black bass 15 inches in total length or
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. enter at designated points.
longer must be released immediately.
■■ Days and hours of operation and quotas
Lake Parker, Polk County: open to fishing. shall be as designated by the FWC and Pine (formerly East and West Pasture
■■ Wire traps may be used for nongame fish. posted at area headquarters (currently Fri- Lakes) and Derby Lakes:
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. day through Monday only). Quotas will be ■■ Boats may not be used.
Saddle Creek Park, Polk County: open to established for each lake, and fishing is per- ■■ Closed to fishing unless authorized by
mitted in designated lakes only. Lakes may FWC permit for agency-sanctioned events
fishing.
be closed to public access for management except for anglers who have been certi-
■■ Cast nets are prohibited.
purposes or if access to the lake exposes fied by the U.S. Veterans Administration,
■■ Black bass 15 inches or more in total length the public to danger, by posting notice at U.S. Social Security Administration, by a
and less than 24 inches in total length must the Tenoroc check station office. Quotas for branch of the U.S. Armed Services, or by
be released immediately. open lakes may be temporarily increased to a licensed Florida physician to be totally
■■ Black bass bag limit: 3 accommodate anglers during times when and permanently disabled and has obtained
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 other lakes are closed due to management a permanent license issued pursuant to
construction projects, road repair, unsafe 373.561 (5)(b),F.S. or unless that person
Lakes Tohopekaliga (West Lake Toho- access or special recreational events. presents proof of acceptance as a client for
pekaliga), Cypress, Hatchineha, and ■■ Discharge of firearms is limited to the FWC retardation services by the Department of
Kissimmee), Polk and Osceola counties: firing range or at FWC sponsored events, Children and Family Services. One prop-
open to fishing. ■■ All dogs must be leashed, except as autho- erly licensed person may fish if accompany-
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. rized by FWC. ing or assisting a permitted individual as
■■ Minnow lift nets, fish traps and trotlines described above.
may be used. Unless otherwise specified, Tenoroc FMA ■■ Other than anglers described above, no
harvest restrictions are: one 16 years or older shall fish on Pine or
Manatee Lake, Manatee County: open to ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 Derby lakes unless accompanied by a child
fishing. ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length under 16 years of age.
■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9 must be released immediately.
a.m., Sunday through Thursday. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 6 ■■ Anglers may keep no more than 5 bluegill
■■ Outboard motors more than 20 h.p. may
not be used. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 and redear sunfish 8 inches or longer in
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. total length per day.
■■ Fish may not be filleted, nor their head Cemetery Lake:
Webb Lake, Charlotte County: open to fish- or tail fins removed, until the angler has ■■ Boats may not be used.
ing during posted hours. checked out at the area headquarters.
■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
■■ Cast nets and minnow seines are prohib- ■■ Anglers may keep no more than 5 bluegill
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ited. and redear sunfish 8 inches or longer in
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ No person shall have any gun under his/ total length per day.
■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8 her control while under the influence of
inches in total length must be released alcohol or drugs. Lake Crago:
immediately. ■■ Largemouth bass, crappie and sunshine
■■ Public access is prohibited in areas posted
■■ Black bass must be released immediately. bass: statewide size and bag limits apply.
as “Restricted” for protection of threatened
■■ Vehicles may be used only on designated or endangered species, or environmentally ■■ Wire traps may be used for nongame fish.
roads. sensitive areas. ■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9
■■ Motor vehicles may be operated only on a.m.
Marl Pits 1 and 3, Charlotte County: open
named roads, designated parking areas, ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish.
to fishing. and fishing ramps as designated in the area ■■ Boats are restricted to idle speed – no
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 use brochure. wake.
■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8 ■■ Vehicles may not obstruct designated
inches in total length must be released roads, boat ramps, gates or fire lanes.
immediately. (Continued on page 24)
■■ Swimming and float tubes are prohibited.
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
■■ Black bass must be released immediately. Regulations for Tenoroc lakes are as
follows:
Marl Pit 2, Charlotte County: open to
fishing. Lakes A, Butterfly, C, F, Fish Hook, G, &,/2)$!g3
")''%34
■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 10 Half-Moon, Horseshoe, Hydrilla, Legs
inches must be released immediately. Lost, Lake East, Lost Lake West, Tern, 2,
■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish combined bag 3, and 4 (primitive launch only on Butter-
"!33
limit: 10 fly, F, Fish Hook, G, Half-Moon, Lost Lake
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 East, Lost Lake West, and Tern):
■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
Tenoroc Fish Management Area, Polk Lakes B and 5: '5!2!.4%%$
County ■■ Boats are restricted to idle speed–no wake.
■■ Fishing, hunting or trapping is allowed only ■■ Black bass 15 inches in total length or WWWTROPHYBASSCOM
by FWC permit. All anglers and hunters longer must be released immediately.
must check in and out at the Tenoroc ■■ Black bass bag limit: 2
Fish Management Area headquarters
Freedom Lake Park, Pinellas County: ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Motor vehicles may be operated only on
open to fishing. ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 designated roads, parking areas and boat
■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. ramps.
Middle Lake, Pasco County: open to
■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Vehicles may not obstruct designated
fishing.
roads, boat ramps, gates or fire lanes.
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Watercraft shall be operated at idle speed
■■ Swimming and float tubes are prohibited.
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 only.
■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with ■■ Rough fish may be removed from desig-
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife
firearms, camping or open fires at the boat nated lakes by cast nets and minnow seines
with firearms or possession of alcoholic
launch site are prohibited. by permission of the landowner.
beverages are prohibited.
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Outboard motors more than 10 h.p. may
Dover District Park Lake, Hillsborough not be used.
County: open to fishing. ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8
■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. inches in total length must be released Regulations for individual Mosaic FMA
immediately. lakes are as follows:
■■ Black bass must be released immediately.
■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 Haul Road Pit:
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length ■■ Black bass 15 inches in total length or
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 must be released immediately. longer must be released immediately.
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife
Lake Istokpoga, Highlands County: open ■■ Black bass bag limit: 2
with firearms or possession of alcoholic
beverages are prohibited. to fishing. Long Pond (LP2 West):
■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ No boats permitted.
Steven J. Wortham Park Lake, Hillsbor-
■■ Black bass 15 inches or more in total length
ough County: open to fishing. Hardee County Park, Hardee County:
and less than 24 inches must be released
■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. immediately. open to fishing.
■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ All anglers shall enter at the Park main
■■ Black bass bag limit: 3 entrance, the designated entry point, unless
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Only 1 black bass may be 24 inches or otherwise instructed.
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 greater in total length. ■■ Angling from a boat is allowed by entry
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Nongame fish may be taken by cast pass issued by Hardee County.
with firearms or possession of alcoholic nets, dip nets, seines, trotlines, set lines,
beverages are prohibited. ■■ Angling from shore does not require an
bush hooks and wire traps. Refer to the entry pass unless otherwise posted at the
Al Lopez Park Lake, Hillsborough County: Florida Commercial Freshwater Fisheries Park main entrance.
brochure.
open to fishing. ■■ Days and hours of operation and quotas
■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. Mosaic Fish Management Area (for- for freshwater fishing are posted at the
■■ Black bass must be released immediately. merly Cargill Fort Meade Mine), Polk and Park main entrance. Fishing is permitted
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 Hardee counties: open to fishing. in designated lakes only. Any lake may be
■■ Fishing is allowed only by daily permit closed to public access by Hardee County
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
issued by the FWC. for management purposes, or in the event
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife that access to the lake exposes the public to
with firearms are prohibited. ■■ All anglers must check in and out at the
Mosaic creel station, the designated entry danger, by posting notice at the Park main
Largo Central Park Nature Preserve, point, unless otherwise instructed. entrance.
Pinellas County: open to fishing. ■■ Days and hours of operation and quotas ■■ Black bass must be released immediately.
■■ Cast nets and minnow seines are prohib- shall be as designated by the FWC and ■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 6
ited. posted at the Mosaic creel station (current- ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20
■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with ly Mosaic is open Friday through Monday). ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10
firearms and possession of alcoholic bever- Fishing is permitted in designated lakes ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length
ages are prohibited. only. All other lakes and restricted areas, must be released immediately.
■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. so posted, are closed to public fishing. Any
■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
■■ Black bass must be released immediately. lake may be temporarily closed to public
access for management purposes, or in the ■■ Fish may not be filleted, nor their head or
■■ Crappie daily bag limit: 10 tail fin removed, until the angler has left
event that access to the lake exposes the
■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length public to danger, by posting notice at the the Park. Disposal of fish remains within
must be released immediately. creel station. Hardee County Park is prohibited.
■■ Panfish daily bag limit: 20 ■■ Taking of fish and wildlife with guns is
Unless otherwise specified, Mosaic FMA prohibited.
■■ Channel catfish daily bag limit: 6.
harvest restrictions are: ■■ Motor vehicles may be operated only on
Walsingham Park Lake, Pinellas County: ■■ Black bass must be released immediately.
designated roads, parking areas, and boat
open to fishing. ■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 6 ramps.
■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 ■■ Vehicles may not obstruct designated
■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length roads, boat ramps and fire lanes.
■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife must be released immediately. ■■ Swimming and float tubes are prohibited.
with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Watercraft are restricted to idle speed – no
beverages are prohibited.
■■ Fish may not be filleted, nor their heads wake.
■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. or tail fins removed, until the angler has
■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 checked out at the Mosaic creel station. South Region
■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length Disposal of fish remains within Mosaic (see map on page 4 for regions)
must be released immediately. property is prohibited. Palm Lake, St. Lucie County: open to
■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 4 ■■ Taking of fish and wildlife with guns is fishing.
■■ Sunshine bass less than 10 inches in total prohibited. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
length must be released immediately. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6
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angler recognition
Choose Kissimmee
a great fishing destination.
COUNT ALL FISH MEALS FROM ALL WATER BODIES What types of fish contain the least methyl mercury?
Fish eaten from different water bodies count toward the consumption Small, short-lived species such as sunfish (bream), brown bullhead,
guidelines. For example, a woman of childbearing age should not eat and black crappie tend to have lower concentrations of mercury. In
more than six ounces of cooked largemouth bass, combined, from all addition, smaller largemouth bass often contain less mercury than
water bodies per month. Any additional fish meals eaten during the larger individuals. Many lakes, rivers, and canals have largemouth bass
recommended time period should have low or no mercury levels. with very low levels of mercury. Other fishes with low to moderate
levels of mercury in Florida waters include catfish and some exotic
OTHER DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FISH species. It is important to consult the Florida Safe Eating Guidelines
CONSUMPTION ADVISORIES (updated quarterly on the Web site and printed annually; doh.state.
Lake Apopka (Lake and Orange counties): brown bullhead should fl.us/floridafishadvice/) for specific water body recommendations.
not be eaten due to pesticide contamination.
EPA/FDA ADVICE FOR WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING
Lake Munson (Leon County): Largemouth bass 19 inches or more
should not be eaten more than one time per month due to PCBs.
AGE AND YOUNG CHILDREN
Women of childbearing age and children are more sensitive to mercury,
MERCURY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS and should take special precautions. Guidelines have been established
Where does mercury come from? by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) to protect this segment of the population.
Mercury is released into the environment from natural deposits in Please refer to the joint FDA and EPA advice:
rocks, volcanoes and soils. It is also released into the environment when www. epa.gov/waterscience/fish/. By following these three
power plants burn coal, incinerators burn mercury-containing wastes, recommendations when selecting and eating fish, women and young
and during production of other industrial chemicals. Airborne mercury children can reduce their exposure to the harmful effects of mercury.
attaches itself to dust and water particles and enters Florida waters with 1. Do not eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tilefish because they
rain and runoff. contain high levels of mercury.
How does mercury get into fish? 2. Eat up to 12 ounces (two average meals) a week of a variety of fish
Mercury is found in virtually all waters in the state, usually at and shellfish that are lower in mercury, such as shrimp, canned light
extremely low concentrations. Naturally occurring bacteria, which tuna, salmon, pollock, and catfish. Albacore (“white”) tuna has more
decompose dead plant and animal material in lakes and wetlands, mercury than canned light tuna. So, when choosing your two meals
convert mercury into a form called methyl mercury. Methyl mercury of fish and shellfish, you may eat up to 6 ounces of albacore.
accumulates primarily from organisms eaten by fish. Fish may contain 3. Check Florida Safe Eating Guidelines about the safety of fish caught
different levels of contaminants based on their location, size, age, and by family and friends in Florida lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. The
feeding habits. Florida statewide consumption advisory provides general guidelines
for consumption of largemouth bass, bowfin and gar. For other fish
Where is mercury found in fish?
from local water bodies that are not listed, consume no more than 6
Mercury accumulates in the muscle tissue of fish, the part you eat. ounces per week.
Therefore, trimming excess fat and skinning do not reduce the amount
of mercury you consume. The only way to reduce mercury consump- FOR MORE INFORMATION
tion is to eat fish from less contaminated water bodies and to select Check the FWC Web site: research.MyFWC.com/Mercury.
species that are lower in mercury.
Smaller, shorter-lived species that feed lower on the food chain tend to have less mercury.
from 15 April to 31 July. In addition, no softshell turtles nor their eggs How do I use total length and girth to estimate bass weight?
may be taken from the wild during the period 1 May to 31 July, and Answer: When you don’t have a scale, you can use total length and
no person shall possess more than 50 eggs taken from the wild in the girth to get a rough estimate of a bass’ weight. See the figure on page
aggregate of species of freshwater turtle native to Florida except as 12 for how to measure total length and girth, then use the following
authorized by permit from the Executive Director. formula: Total Length (in inches) – squared, times girth (in inches)
What regulations apply to clams, mussels and other mollusks? divided by 1200. For example, a 22” long bass with a girth of 15” would
weigh about 6.1 pounds (22 x 22 x 15 / 1200 = 6.1).
Answer: Regulations governing taking and possession of freshwater
mussels are covered by 68A-23.015 FAC. In summary, “Taking” live or What is the penalty for fishing without a license, keeping too
dead freshwater mussels for the purpose of sale, as well as “selling”, is many fish or illegal sized fish?
prohibited. Bag Limit: No person shall take more than 10 freshwater Answer: Generally, noncriminal infractions involve license or permit
mussels, or 20 half-shells of the families Unionidae and Margaritiferidae violations, motor size issues or measurement violations related to fish.
(phylum Mollusca, Class Pelecypoda) per day. Additionally, no person Second degree misdemeanors are criminal acts and typically involve
may possess more than two days’ bag limit (20 individual, 40 half-shells) taking fish it is illegal to take, fishing in areas that are closed, using
of any mussels of these families. Any deviation to these restrictions illegal gear or counting violations (more than the bag limit). Failure
requires a permit from the Executive Director, in accordance with to pay a noncriminal penalty (similar to a traffic ticket) within 30 days
68A-9.002 FAC (see illustrations, page 11). also escalates the charge to a second degree misdemeanor. Forgery
■■ Freshwater mussels from families other than the two mentioned of a license or use of a forged license is a third degree felony. Florida
above, such as the Asian clam, may be taken for bait or personal use. Statutes outline the range of penalties; for instance a second degree
No recreational license needed. misdemeanor is punishable by up to $500 and/or 60 days imprisonment
■■ Mussels may only be taken by “hand-picking”. Use of brailles, crow- at the discretion of the court.
foot bars, or other mechanical methods is prohibited. What is the economic value of freshwater fishing in Florida?
What regulations apply to harvesting fish for home aquaria? Answer: In 2006, the U.S. Census Bureau did a “National Survey
Answer: The rules and regulations for recreational take and pos- of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Related Recreation” to determine the
session apply. You cannot be in possession, or your aquarium be in amount of participation and economic impact of these outdoor activities
possession, of more than these limits. Legal methods of collecting and nationwide. Freshwater fishing in Florida was estimated to generate
license requirements also apply. You need a freshwater fishing license $1.4 billion in retail sales, which produced an economic impact of $2.4
to take (defined as “taking, attempting to take, pursuing, hunting, mo- billion. This economic boon to the state of Florida sustains 23,480 jobs
lesting, capturing, or killing any freshwater fish, their nests or eggs, by and provided recreation for 1.4 million anglers (resident and nonresi-
any means, whether or not such actions result in obtaining possession dent), who spent 24.5 million days fishing.
of such freshwater fish or their nests or eggs”). Avoid taking Florida’s
Overall (freshwater and saltwater combined) Florida ranks number
endangered species. A list of them can be found at
one in In-State Anglers (2.8 million vs. #2 Texas with 2.5 million), Days
MyFWC.com/Fishing/Fishes/threatened.html. of Fishing in State 46.3 million vs. #2 Texas with 41.1 million), Days of
Fishing by Nonresidents (4.8 million vs. #2 Wisconsin with 3.8 million),
Number of Nonresident Anglers (885 thousand vs. #2 Wisconsin with
381 thousand) and total angler expenditures ($4.4 billion vs. #2 Texas
with $3.4 billion).
No wonder Florida is the “Fishing Capital of the World!”
•Save money ($6-20 or more depending on where you buy your license). •Get tax money you paid on tackle and motor boat fuels back from the
Feds−each paid license counts for five-years and recovers more money
•Contribute to resource conservation−all of your money goes to FWC for sportfish restoration in Florida.
for fish and wildlife conservation and is spread over the next five years to
help stabilize agency funding for habitat management, stocking, boating •Added convenience−no need to wonder if your license is active for five
access, boating safety, outreach and education, fisheries law enforcement, years. We will try to contact you via mail or e-mail when it expires.
artificial reefs and more.
•Buy your 5-year license anywhere licenses are sold including online at
•Lock in the price−future fee increases won’t impact you for at least MyFWC.com/License.html or by calling 1-888-FISH-FLOrida.
five years.
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