General Statewide Freshwater Fishing Regulations - eRegulations
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FLORIDA F R E S H W A T E R 2017–2018
FISHING REGULATIONS
See page 4
General Statewide
Freshwater Fishing
Regulations
pages 12–14
Valid from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018
Search MyFWC on Social Media
Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission
Please visit MyFWC.com/Fishing/Freshwater for the most current regulations
M dd le o f E V er y where
Y O U R V A C AT I O N I N T H E
STARTS HERE
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F ISHIN G R EG UL AT I O NS MyFWC.com
Visit MyFWC.com/Fishing for up-to-date
information on fishing, boating and how to
CONTENTS
help ensure safe, sustainable fisheries for
the future.
FLRules.org
For the latest rules, always visit
FLRules.org. FWC rules are in chapter 68.
Fish and Wildlife Alert
Reward Program
Report fishing, boating or hunting law
violations by calling toll-free
1-888-404-FWCC (3922);
on cell phones, dial *FWC or #FWC
depending on service carrier; report viola-
tions online at MyFWC.com/Law or text:
Tip@MyFWC.com.
FREE Florida Wildlife
Magazine — Online
Courtesy of Take Me Fishing Articles and tips for anglers, hunters
and other outdoor enthusiasts. Visit
FloridaWildlifeMagazine.com to subscribe
to the new electronic publication.
Commissioners’ Message......................... 2 Taking Mussels & Clams......................... 13
TrophyCatch.............................................. 4 Special Regulations for
Triploid Grass Carp, Alligator Gar, Florida Freshwater
Introduction & FWC Offices...................... 6 Atlantic, Gulf and Shortnose Sturgeon.... 13 Angler Newsletter
Fishing License Requirements & Fees....... 8 Statewide Bag & Length Limits............... 14 Subscribe to FWC's free quarterly fishing
newsletter at bit.ly/FFASubscribe.
Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration (SFR).....9 Special Bag & Length Limits................... 14
Freshwater Fishing Tips Fish Identification Chart.................... 16–17
from the Pros.....................................10–11 Stop the Spread of
Freshwater Fisheries Non-native Species
Freshwater License Exemptions.............. 12 Conservation Highlights.......................... 18
It is illegal to release any non-native fish
Methods of Taking Freshwater Fish......... 12 How to Measure Your Catch.................... 18 or any other non-native organism into the
waters of the state. To find out more visit
Game & Nongame Freshwater Fish.......... 12 Fish Management Area Regulations........ 21 MyFWC.com/WildlifeHabitats.
Prohibited Gear for Taking Summer Fishing Camps for Youth............ 24
Marine Fish in Fresh Water..................... 13
Frequently Answered Questions.............. 27
Methods of Taking Bait........................... 13
Fish Consumption Advisory..................... 28
Release and Movement of Fish............... 13
Use of Fish for Bait................................. 13
Buy your license online!
When you buy your You can obtain a license 24 hours a day
at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com and begin On the cover
license online, it’s fast, fishing immediately! Rosemary J. White caught this trophy large-
convenient and saves Licenses are also available toll-free at mouth bass in Moccasin Lake, Clearwater.
time and travel. 1-888-FISHFLORIDA (1-888-347-4356). Reward yourself for releasing your trophy
Download the FWC Fish-Hunt-FL Processing fees apply to telephone and bass at TrophyCatch.com!
app for your iPhone or Android for Internet sales.
Photo by Daryn Andrew White.
instant access.
COMMISSIONERS’ MESSAGE
Brian Yablonski Williamstown, MA | Birmingham, AL
Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission Chairman
The familiar whizzz of the line when you cast, the plop of your bait into the water, and the sigh
of relaxation as you breathe in the balmy air and let your worries drift away. This is how great
memories start—fishing Florida’s vibrant freshwaters. These experiences unite us under the
About This Guide
common goal of conserving Florida’s fisheries so that we can all fish another day. After all, the
ultimate goal is always to get out there again. This high-quality guide is offered to you by
Freshwater fishing is convenient and makes for a fantastic family outing. It gives us a chance the Florida Fish and WIldlife Conservation
to recharge from our busy days while feeling the quick bump of a bite and the rush of excite- Commission's Division of Freshwater
ment that comes from reeling in that hard-fighting fish. Conserving Florida’s iconic fisheries for Fisheries Management through its unique
future generations will be possible only through a personal commitment from each of us to do partnership with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC.
our part. Your purchase of a fishing license is a simple way to support conservation. This 2017-
2018 Freshwater Fishing Regulations Summary was created as a resource so that you can easily The revenue generated through ad sales
find the regulation information you need for fishing throughout Florida, plus fishing tips from significantly lowers production costs and
pro anglers, suggestions from biologists on the best places to fish, and information on fishing generates savings. These savings translate
camps and angler recognition programs. into additional funds for other important
One of those angler recognition programs is TrophyCatch, which offers great incentives agency programs.
for the catch, document, and release of largemouth bass weighing eight pounds or heavier, in
Florida. You can register free for the program at www.TrophyCatch.com and will automatically If you have any feedback or are inter-
be entered to win a random drawing for a new Phoenix bass boat powered by Mercury and ested in advertising, please contact us at
anchored by PowerPole. Unprecedented data collected from the more than 5,000 bass submit- 413.884.1001 or at www.JFGriffin.com
ted to TrophyCatch has assisted the FWC in making informed decisions for the conservation
of Florida’s natural resources and pursuing new research opportunities to ensure that Florida Graphic Design:
remains the Fishing Capital of the World. Jon Gulley, Dane Fay, John Corey,
If you’re new to fishing Florida’s freshwaters—welcome! If you’ve fished here before, we hope Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski
to see you out there one day. We invite each of you to explore and enjoy all that Florida’s fresh-
water habitats have to offer from the bright sun glimmering off your J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC is proud to print the
official Florida Freshwater Fishing Regulations
favorite lake, gliding your canoe or kayak down a crystal clear river, summary on post-consumer recycled paper.
to feeling the tug of a trophy bass while fishing from the bank of
your neighborhood pond. More information about freshwater
fishing can be found at www.MyFWC.com/fishing/fresh-
water and you can contact a biologist at one of our
regional offices, listed on page 6. With more than
three million acres of lakes, ponds and reservoirs,
and approximately 12,000 miles of fishable rivers,
streams and canals, finding a great spot to fish
in Florida isn’t far away. So, get out there and
enjoy Florida’s excellent fishing! Place Cover, etc.
Freshwater Rule Changes
• Lake Jackson (Walton County):
The length limit has been removed
for crappie (speckled perch). This guide is also
available online at
For additional information:
Check Special Regulations on page 14 and specific Fish Management Area rules
on pages 21–26 for additional details.
2 2017–2018 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
ANGLER RECOGNITION PROGRAMS
TrophyCatch angler data has assisted with the FWC’s recent the top spot for the biggest bag weight so far
Catching a trophy bass in Florida is a thrill not freshwater black bass regulation change and this season? Visit TrophyCatch.com to sign up
easily forgotten. The great thing about fishing will continue to play a key role in manage- for program email updates and be sure to “Like”
is that whether you’re an avid fisherman or ment decisions for Florida’s fresh waterbod- us on Facebook.com/TrophyCatchFlorida and
just a novice angler, you have an equal chance ies. TrophyCatch citizen-scientist data also follow us at YouTube.com/TrophyCatchFlorida
at reeling in the catch of a lifetime! When influences FWC research projects such as for the latest catches and information.
you do, be sure that you catch, document, genetics studies on trophy bass, lake and river The TrophyCatch program would not be
and release your largemouth bass and share studies to determine the ecological health of possible without you and TrophyCatch part-
your data at TrophyCatch.com to receive great Florida’s fresh waterbodies, research on the ners! So, please keep the following partners in
incentives from program partners like Bass waterbodies where the most trophy-sized bass mind when you need to refill your tackle box
Pro Shops! The TrophyCatch program rewards are caught, and a research partnership with the or outfit your boat or vehicle: Bass Pro Shops,
its citizen-scientist anglers for documenting University of Florida to determine the proper Mercury Marine, Phoenix Boats, Shimano,
and releasing their way to hold a trophy-sized bass for minimal Rapala, SpiderWire, Bartow Ford, and others.
Florida largemouth stress and improved recovery times, among Many thanks to you and to our TrophyCatch
bass weighing eight other studies. Details can be found at bit.ly/ partners for the support and investment in the
pounds or heavier. All TrophyResearch. TrophyCatch data enhances conservation of Florida’s trophy bass.
that you need to par- the FWC’s understanding of bass population
ticipate is your fish- dynamics, helps inform public policy and the
ing gear, scale and a development of environmental regulations,
camera to capture the as well as fosters the public will to protect,
required weight photo enhance, and restore Florida’s freshwaters—so
or video of the entire keep submitting those catches!
fish (head to tail) on a
scale with the weight Stay in the Know
clearly legible. Want to know which lakes are hot or who holds
Big Catch and
TrophyCatch Research
TrophyCatch citizen-scientist anglers provide State Records
unprecedented and extremely valuable data Let the Big Catch angler recognition program
about trophy-sized bass to the FWC. This help you celebrate memorable-sized catches
of 33 freshwater species! Turn to pages 16–17
to view the Big Catch species and their quali-
fying sizes, as well as state record catches. If
you catch a possible state record, obtain an
application at bit.ly/FL-RecordFish and call
your nearest regional office (see page 6).
TrophyCatch Season 4 Champion Paul Desrosier
with a replica mount of his 14 lbs 10 oz bass
from Jessamine Lake in Pasco County.
Registering at TrophyCatch.com automatically enters you in a FREE random drawing
to win a Phoenix bass boat powered by Mercury and anchored by Power-Pole!
Shown is Season 4 winner Andrew Bowen in his Phoenix 619 Pro.
Look for the FREE
"TrophyCatch Florida app"
in the App Store for Apple
phones or the Play Store
for Android devices.
4 2017–2018 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
INTRODUCTION
This free booklet is your guide to Florida’s and living in a healthy environment to be taxes from the sale of outdoor recreation sup-
freshwater fishing laws and regulations. The extremely important to Floridians and visi- plies enhancing and promoting the resource.
Florida Wildlife Code is the final authority on tors and are also striving to make Florida the Fifteen percent of Florida's SFR funds went
fishing laws (www.FLrules.org). The publisher undisputed “Bass Fishing Capital of the World.” to boating access — building and repairing
strives to ensure this information is accurate The FWC uses the best scientific manage- ramps and courtesy docks. The remainder went
but assumes no liability for errors that may ment possible to help fulfill its mission of “Man- to fresh and saltwater fisheries conservation
occur. In addition, rules can change between aging fish and wildlife resources for their long- projects such as habitat restoration, fish stock-
publications. Contact the Florida Fish and term well-being and the benefit of people.” To ing, artificial reefs construction and youth fish-
Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) if fund those efforts, the Legislature sets fishing ing clinics.
you have questions not adequately covered in license fees and exemptions, as well as penal- The FWC encourages all anglers to buy a
this booklet. This publication is valid from ties for violating fish and wildlife conservation license (GoOutdoorsFlorida.com). Even if you
July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018. laws. State law guarantees money from the are legally exempt, you can contribute to the
Florida remains the “Fishing Capital of the sale of fishing licenses goes to the FWC and future of our fisheries resources by buying a
World,” due to great resources and responsible cannot be diverted. license and helping the FWC keep your fed-
management. We consider the quality of life In 1950, Congressmen Dingell and Johnson, eral tax dollars in Florida to support sportfish
that is associated with recreational activities at the request of anglers and the fishing indus- restoration.
try, created the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Resto- Recreational fishing is an enjoyable, whole-
ration (SFR) program, wherein fishing tackle some experience that reflects a happy and
was assessed an excise fee and the monies healthy lifestyle. Moreover, it is the No. 1 gate-
returned to the states for fish restoration way activity to get youth connected to nature
projects. The “Wallop-Breaux” amend- in active outdoor recreation, which can reduce
ment in 1984 added import duties on obesity, improve grades and, most of all, add
sport fishing equipment, pleasure enjoyment to their lives.
boats and yachts as well as taxes on The FWC is working hard to ensure safe and
motorboat fuels. The result is one of sustainable recreational fishing for all of our
the most successful “user-pays, public- citizens and guests and depends on your license
benefits” programs in the world, with fees to make sure there are fish for tomorrow.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Managing fish and wildlife resources for their
long-term well-being and the benefit of people.
620 South Meridian Street NORTHWEST
Farris Bryant Building
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
850-488-4676
800-955-8771 TDD
Gil-
Commissioners FWC regional offices christ
Brian Yablonski Northwest Region NORTH CENTRAL
Chairman, Tallahassee 3911 Highway 2321
Panama City, FL 32409-1658 NORTHEAST
Liesa Priddy
850-265-3676
Vice Chairman, Immokalee
North Central Region
Ronald M. Bergeron
3377 East U.S. Highway 90
Ft. Lauderdale
Lake City, FL 32055-8795
Richard Hanas 386-758-0525
Oviedo
Northeast Region
Bo Rivard 1239 Southwest 10th Street
Panama City Ocala, FL 34471-0323 SOUTHWEST
352-732-1225
Charles "Chuck" W. Roberts III
Tallahassee Southwest Region
3900 Drane Field Road
Robert A. Spottswood
Lakeland, FL 33811-1207
Key West
863-648-3200
Staff SOUTH
South Region
Nick Wiley 8535 Northlake Blvd.
Executive Director West Palm Beach, FL 33412-3303
561-625-5122
Eric Sutton
Assistant Executive Director
6 2017–2018 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
In Panama City, Florida,
we fish year-round.
Home to the Florida Pro Redfish Series Emerald Coast Division,
Panama City offers the ideal environment for anglers.
Whether you prefer inner coastal, deep water or shore fishing,
you’ll find it here in Panama City, along with affordable hotels,
2 full-service marinas, some of the world’s best fishing charters,
and waterfront dining.
PA N A M A C I T Y
FLORIDA Learn more and register to win a free trip at
Where Life Sets Sail
DestinationPanamaCity.com.
LICENSES
Fishing license requirements and fees
License, permit, and issuance fees and exemptions are established by the Legislature. In addition to the cost of licenses and permits specified
in this section, license agents currently charge a 50-cent issuance fee for selling licenses or permits.
Licensing requirements follow the species of fish you are fishing for, regardless of where you are fishing. For example, anglers fishing for and
possessing largemouth bass in brackish water need a freshwater license; anglers fishing for saltwater species in fresh water (e.g., spotted sea
trout, red drum, snook, or American shad) need a saltwater license to possess these species. An exception is that when fishing in fresh water
with a freshwater license (or legal exemption) you may take mullet without a saltwater license (seasons and sizes follow the saltwater fishing
rules). See page 12 for fishing license exemptions, but remember, anyone can buy a license to contribute to conservation.
Resident Freshwater Fishing Licenses
For purposes of fishing in Florida, a “resident” is defined as any person who has declared Florida as his or her only state of residence as evidenced by a valid Florida driver
license or identification card with both a Florida address and a Florida residency verified by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (HSMV). If the person
does not have a Florida driver license or identification card on record with HSMV, a Florida voter information card, declaration of domicile, or homestead exemption may be
used as proof of Florida residency. Active military personnel stationed in Florida, including their spouses and dependent children residing in the household, are considered
residents when purchasing fishing licenses.
Freshwater Fishing (valid 12 months from specified start date) $17.00
Youth Freshwater Fishing (optional for children under the age of 16 and valid until 17th birthday—a fishing license is not required until age 16) $17.00
BEST 5-Year Freshwater Fishing $79.00
BUY (valid 5 years from specified start date)
Freshwater/Saltwater Fishing Combo (valid 12 months from specified start date) $32.50
Freshwater Fishing/Hunting Combo (valid 12 months from specified start date) $32.50
Freshwater/Saltwater Fishing/Hunting Combo (valid 12 months from specified start date) $48.00
Resident 64+ Silver Sportsman's License includes Freshwater Fishing and Hunting licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery,
Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Deer, Turkey and Florida Waterfowl permits $13.50
(valid 12 months from specified start date)
Sportsman's License includes Freshwater Fishing and Hunting licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow,
Deer, Turkey and Florida Waterfowl permits $80.50
(valid 12 months from specified start date)
Gold Sportsman's License includes Hunting, Saltwater Fishing and Freshwater Fishing licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery,
Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Deer, Turkey, Florida Waterfowl, Snook and Lobster permits $100.00
(valid 12 months from specified start date)
Youth Gold Sportsman’s License
(optional for children under the age of 16 and valid until 17th birthday—a fishing license is not required until age 16—hunter safety certificate required— $100.00
includes same licenses and permits as Gold Sportsman’s License)
Military Gold Sportsman's License
(sold only at tax collector's office—includes same licenses and permits as Gold Sportsman’s License) $20.00
(valid 12 months from specified start date)
5-Year Gold Sportsman’s License
(includes Freshwater Fishing, Hunting and Saltwater Fishing licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Deer, Turkey, $494.00
Florida Waterfowl, Snook and Lobster permits)
Nonresident Freshwater Fishing Licenses
Freshwater Fishing (valid 12 months from specified start date) $47.00
3-Day Freshwater Fishing (valid 3 consecutive days from specified start date) $17.00
7-Day Freshwater Fishing (valid 7 consecutive days from specified start date) $30.00
Lifetime Licenses (For Florida Residents Only)
Lifetime licenses are available to Florida residents only. Funds generated from sales of these licenses are invested, creating an endowment to support long-term conservation
of Florida’s fish and wildlife resources. Costs of lifetime licenses are less than what would be spent on annual licenses, permits and fees, and are valid in Florida even if you
move out of state.
LIFETIME SPORTSMAN'S LICENSE
(includes Hunting, Freshwater Fishing and Saltwater Fishing licenses; Deer, Wildlife Management Area,
Archery, Turkey, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Florida Waterfowl, Snook and Lobster permits)
4 years or younger $401.50
5-12 years $701.50
13 years and older $1,001.50
LIFETIME FRESHWATER FISHING LICENSE
4 years or younger $126.50
5-12 years $226.50
13 years or older $301.50
8 2017–2018 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation CommissionFederal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration — A legacy of success
How often do you see has been the best thing for anglers since to saltwater fisheries. In freshwater,
fishing reels were invented. the FWC uses this money to improve
people or businesses fisheries habitat, stock fish, conduct
Today, SFR uses a small excise tax on
wanting to be taxed fishing reels and other fishing tackle, as
research and manage fish populations.
and happy about it? well as a motor boat fuel tax, to fund
We also conduct aquatic education
programs and provide valuable fishing
In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt sport fish restoration and boating access
and conservation tips to anglers.
signed the Federal Aid in Wildlife programs. It is working. There are now
Restoration Act. This Act has been key at least 77 percent more anglers than
to implementing the North American in 1950. Purchases of tax-related items
Model of Wildlife Conservation (see by anglers have increased by nearly
MyFWC.com). Between 1941 and 1950, 200 percent in dollars (adjusted for the
sport-fishing businesses paid a federal consumer-price index) since 1955.
excise tax that was deposited in the Anglers and fishing businesses want to
general treasury of the United States but know the benefits they receive in return.
did not directly benefit manufacturers To help answer this, Andrew Loftus
or anglers. In 1950, sportsmen and Consulting and Southwick Associates
businesses teamed with conservation- analyzed data on excise taxes invested,
minded policy makers to redirect these fishing participation, and angler
existing federal excise taxes to the purchases of excise-tax related products
Restoration Program (aka: SFR, Dingell- for a 2011 report to the Association of
Johnson or Wallop-Breaux). Fish and Wildlife Agencies. The report
The concept was to restore sportfish found that excise-tax related return-on-
populations and improve public access, investment ranged from 1,585 percent
so more people can enjoy fishing and so in 1970 to 2,643 percent in 1980.
fishing sales would increase. SFR came In Florida alone, SFR provided
about as a result of anglers wanting to $11 million in 2014, of which 15 percent
see more money directed toward restoring ($1.8 million) went to boating access.
the nation’s recreational fisheries, and Freshwater fisheries conservation Your purchase of fishing equipment and motor
ensuring better fishing opportunities for received $4.5 million (down from boat fuels supports Sport Fish Restoration and
themselves and future generations. It $5 million in recent years). The rest went boating access facilities.F R E SH WAT E R F ISHIN G T IP S F R O M T H E PR O S
Tips from the Pros
Tips for Fishing Florida’s Crowded Bass Waters
Jesse Tacoronte, pro angler and Enigmafishing.com.
Earlier this year, I found myself fishing against can flip and punch their lures down into the
over 100 of the best bass anglers in the world lair of the bass. Oftentimes, these areas attract
in the Bassmaster Elite Series event at Lake more than one boat at a time, and you can play
Okeechobee. These guys are experts at find- off of other fishermen to help yourself catch fish.
ing bass. They have the best equipment, the I like to fish the inside edges of grass with a
fastest boats and—with $100,000 on the line jig or a flipping stick. I use a 7'11" HPT Series
for the winner—plenty of motivation to win. Enigma rod for flipping, with 40-65 lb braided
The lake was fishing small that week, which line and the fastest reel I can find. Because these
meant fishing in crowded areas full of other bass aren’t migratory, if they move they move to
anglers. That part of the equation, at least, was adjust to their surroundings. And that means if
just another Florida day on the water. It’s no they aren’t on the inside edge, they’re on the out-
secret that the Sunshine State, where I’ve lived side edge. Sometimes, I’ve found that the noise
for two decades now, is home to an army of from another boat’s trolling motor will even
anglers fishing the area’s blue water, estuaries push bass towards me. If flipping and punching
and freshwater fisheries from the panhandle to isn’t working, you can switch to a lighter setup,
Key West. Lakes and rivers are often crowded, something like a 7'3" Medium/Heavy Enigma
but when it comes to bass fishing, there are Aaron’s Edge Rod with 12-15 lb fluorocarbon
a few tricks you can use to catch fish in the and another fast reel. This will allow you to work
middle of the pack. the edges of the grass with a finesse bait like a
The first thing you have to remind yourself Tightlines UVenko or a trick worm.
about Florida bass is that they are almost always Search for irregularities in the grass: stuff
grass-related fish: they spend their lives in the like sharp edges and holes. Don’t overcompli-
grass, and they aren’t migratory like saltwater cate it. And remember—if you find yourself in
species. Because of this, anglers often congre- crowded waters, don’t be discouraged. Fish are
gate in grassy areas like hydrilla flats, where they everywhere in this state.
Letting the Fish Tell You to Stop
JT Kenney, Bassmaster winner and four-time FLW winner.
I've been fishing my whole life. I've seen a of them. What I mean by that is rarely are the
lot of mistakes made on the water. The most fish scattered throughout an entire grass bed.
common mistake I see anglers making is not Typically there will be two or three areas where
stopping or slowing down once they get a bite. most of the fish are congregated. I like to use
This is a must in Florida. The fish really school a spinnerbait or a lipless crankbait to cover
up in our lush grass beds. And we have a lot water, zig-zagging back and forth across the
grass bed until I get a bite. As you are fishing
along and get that bite you need to stop right
there. Chances are there are more fish there
than just that one. Use your Power-Poles to
stop you on that spot and fan cast all around.
I'll continue to cast the spinnerbait or lipless
crank until the fish stop biting it. Then I will
pick up a stick worm, slow down and
really work the area slowly through the grass. Sometimes you may
over. Fan cast the have to move the boat a few yards one way or
stick worm in the another to relocate the fish again. If you follow
same way you did this simple tip, I know you will catch more fish
the faster lures as you enjoy the wonderful fishing opportuni-
but work it very ties Florida has to offer.
10 2017–2018 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation CommissionFlorida Cool-Weather Fishing
Gary Clouse, pro angler and owner of Phoenix Bass Boats.
I love to come to Lake Okeechobee in Decem- vegetation type bottom on your rod guides, I
ber leaving the cold in Tennessee behind to usually move on. In the case of a cold front I
catch those big Florida largemouth. The go to hyacinth mats. It can be slow going and
December weather is usually stable and the you may not get a lot of bites, but can pay off
fish are in a pre-spawn stage. I look for hard with bigger fish.
bottom areas and flip or pitch soft plastic at Power-Poles are a huge advantage in Florida.
round reeds. When I pull into an area I put my There is no question that they can help you
rod in the water and check the bottom. If you catch more bass by being able to stop your
feel solid sandy bottom, that’s good. You can boat and fish quietly and slowly. Find a hard
usually actually feel and hear your rod tip in the bottom area, stick your Power-Poles, and flip
sand. If it feels soft, with your rod tip sinking in your favorite soft plastic and good luck!
several inches and you pull up a soft decaying
Locating Prespawn Largemouth Bass
Tim Frederick, LakeBigBass.com and FLW Tour Professional.
From mid-November through February one of Try different retrieves until the fish let you
the most effective methods to find prespawn know what they like. One of the most common
TrophyCatch bass is a lipless crankbait. Focus mistakes new anglers make is using a fishing
on areas close to spawning areas with changes rod that is too long and heavy an action. Ideally
in depth along with some type of structure. you will want a rod in the 6'6" to 6'9" range with
Types of structure to target include timber, a medium-fast action.
hydrilla, eelgrass, shell beds and bridge pilings. The other bait I will have tied on this time
Water temperature is a major factor this time of year is a Carolina Rig. Normally I will set
of year. You should be looking for temperatures up my Carolina Rig with a ¾ ounce weight
from 45-60 degrees. With colder water tem- and a trick worm or a Senko type bait. When
peratures you will want a silent lure with a tight you slow down and drag the Carolina Rig it
wobbling action. When the water temperature can catch you large numbers of bass and the
reaches 55 degrees you will want to switch to a TrophyCatch you are looking for. All of these
loud, rattling lipless crankbait. One of the most baits I am throwing on fluorocarbon line. I
important techniques for this type of fishing is believe that fluorocarbon line is critical to a
to reel your lure as slowly as possible. successful trip this time of year. These tips
This time of year another effective lure is a will help you land your TrophyCatch across
suspending jerk bait. The key to fishing a sus- the Sunshine State.
pending jerk bait is the cadence of the retrieve.
Note: Neither the FWC nor the State of Florida endorse any individual company or product.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2017–2018 11ME T H O D S O F TA K IN G F ISH
Game and nongame size not greater than 1 inch, a length not more spillway of the Jim Woodruff Dam on the
freshwater fish than 20 feet and a depth not more than 4 feet;
and minnow traps not more than 24 inches in
Apalachicola River or in Miami-Dade
County canals south of the C-4 and east of
Game Fish: black bass, crappie, bluegill, redear length and 12 inches in diameter, with a fun- the L-31N and L-31W canals inclusively.
sunfish, warmouth, redbreast sunfish, spotted nel entrance not more than 1 inch in spread. ■■ By the use of cast nets in the South and
sunfish, flier, mud sunfish, longear sunfish, *NOTE: Statutory provisions (790.052(3), Northeast regions, in Citrus County, and in
shadow bass, peacock bass, white bass, striped F.S.) made it lawful for persons to own, possess, the Southwest Region, except that posses-
bass and sunshine bass. and lawfully use firearms and other weapons, sion or use of cast nets in waters adjoining
ammunition, and supplies for lawful purposes Saddle Creek Fish Management Area, Polk
Nongame Fish: all freshwater fish are defined including fishing, camping, or lawful hunt- County, confined by Morgan Combee Road,
as nongame fish, except grass carp and fish ing or going to or returning from a fishing, U.S. Highway 92 and Fish Hatchery Road
defined as freshwater game fish. Note: Alliga- camping, or lawful hunting expedition. Conse- are prohibited.
tor gar require a scientific collector’s permit quently, although firearms may not be used to ■■ Using a bow and light at night. Night bow-
to take. take fish, they can be in possession of someone fishing tournaments do not require a permit
with legally taken fish. in the Northwest Region.
Methods of taking freshwater fish ■■ By netting and impounding at night from
Game fish may only be taken with pole-and- Nongame fish may be taken: Sept. 1 to May 1 in specified waters of
line or rod-and-reel. There is no limit on the ■■ With pole-and-line, or rod-and-reel, and by Northwest Florida. Nets used to take non-
number of rods an angler may use. bush hook, setline or trotline baited with game fish (typically suckers) in these speci-
Freshwater fish may not be taken by use of cut bait or other substance; but not includ- fied waters must be less than 100 feet in
any free-floating, unattached device, or by tak- ing live game fish or any part of any game length, have a minimum 3-inch stretched
ing of fish or wildlife with firearms, explosives, fish; bush hooks, setlines or trotlines (lim- mesh and shall be continuously attended to
electricity, spear gun, poison or other chemi- ited to 25 hooks total) are permitted for ensure immediate release of any trapped
cals. The taking of fish by underwater swim- taking nongame fish for personal use, but game fish. Contact the Northwest Regional
ming or diving is prohibited. It is unlawful to only in those areas where trotlines may be office for details (page 6).
sell, offer for sale or transport out of the state lawfully used in accordance with the Wild- ■■ For personal use by any person possessing
any freshwater game fish unless specifically life Code of the State of Florida. Refer to the a valid freshwater fishing license by the use
permitted by the FWC, except that licensed “Commercial Freshwater Fisheries Rules and of not more than one slat basket or one wire
anglers may transport two days’ bag limit of Regulations Summary.” Bush hooks, setlines trap, made as specified in Rule 68A-23.003,
legally harvested game fish. and trotlines must be clearly and legibly FAC, and used only in those waters where
It is illegal to possess any freshwater fish marked with the harvester’s name and use of wire traps or slat baskets is permitted
along with gear that cannot legally be used address while being used or possessed in or for commercial purposes. Refer to the “Com-
to take freshwater fish, including gear types upon the waters of the state. mercial Freshwater Fisheries Rules and
listed above and below for taking nongame ■■ At night by bow and arrow, and gigs. Regulation Summary.” Passive fishing gear
fish or bait. An exception is game fish may ■■ During daylight hours by manually operated such as slat baskets or wire baskets must be
be possessed together with cast nets having spears, gigs, snatch hooks, crossbow or bow clearly and legibly marked with the har-
a stretched mesh size not greater than 1 inch; and arrow from a boat or from shore except vester’s name and address while being used
minnow dip nets not more than 4 feet in diam- at the spillways of the Eureka and Rodman or possessed in or upon waters of the state.
eter; minnow seines having a stretched mesh dams on the Oklawaha River or on the
License Exemptions: You do not need a freshwater fishing license if...
• You are a child under 16 years of age. • You freshwater fish in your county • You possess a Resident Freshwater
of residence on your homestead or Commercial Fishing License.
• You are a Florida resident 65 years of
the homestead of your spouse or
age or older and you possess proof of • You are freshwater fishing on
minor child, or if you are a minor child
age and residency, such as a Florida License-Free Freshwater Fishing Days:
hunting or freshwater fishing on the
driver’s license or ID, or an optional first weekend in April (April 7–8, 2018)
homestead of your parent.
no-cost Resident Senior Citizen and the second weekend in June
Hunting and Fishing Certificate. • You are a Florida resident (June 9–10, 2018).
certified as totally and
• You are a resident who is fishing with
permanently disabled and you possess A fish pond is a man-made pond
live or natural bait, using poles or lines
a Florida Resident Disabled Person constructed for the primary purpose
that are not equipped with a fishing-
Hunting and Fishing Certificate. of fishing, entirely within the property
line-retrieval mechanism, and you are
lines of the owner and with no surface
fishing for noncommercial purposes in • You are a resident who is a member of
water connection to public waters.
your home county. However, you must the Armed Forces of the United States,
have a valid fishing license to fish by you are not stationed in this state, and • You are fishing in a fish pond of 20
any method in a fish management you are home on leave for 30 days or acres or less that is located entirely
area. This is often referred to as the less, upon submission of orders. within the private property of its owner.
cane-pole exemption.
• You have been accepted as a client • You are fishing in a fish pond of 20
• You are fishing in the St. Mary’s River for developmental disabilities services acres or more, whose owner has
or Lake Seminole (but not including by the Agency for Persons with purchased a fish pond license at a fee
tributary creeks in Florida) and have a Disabilities. The agency must furnish of $3 per surface acre.
valid Georgia fishing license. proof to such clients.
12 2017–2018 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation CommissionProhibited gear for taking be taken for bait by the following methods, ■■ Taking of bait for the purpose of sale requires
marine species in freshwater unless specifically prohibited: a commercial fishing license.
■■ Spearfishing: Use of any hand or mechani- ■■ Cast nets having a stretched mesh size not
cally propelled, single or multi-pronged greater than 1 inch in fresh waters of the Use of fish for bait
spear or lance, barbed or barbless, to harvest state, unless specifically prohibited. ■■ Black bass, peacock bass or any part thereof
or attempt to harvest any marine species ■■ Minnow dip nets not more than 4 feet in may not be used as bait.
while diving in freshwater is prohibited. diameter. ■■ Live non-native fishes (including goldfish
■■ Spearfishing for mullet in fresh water is ■■ Minnow seines having a stretched mesh size and carp) may not be used as bait, except for
prohibited; however, gigging from above not greater than 1 inch, a length not more than variable platys and fathead minnows.
water is permitted. 20 feet, and a depth not more than 4 feet. ■■ Whole pickerel or panfish (e.g., bluegill,
■■ Minnow traps not more than 24 inches in redear sunfish, redbreast sunfish, spotted
Methods of taking bait length and 12 inches in diameter, with a funnel sunfish, flier, warmouth) or parts thereof may
Freshwater shrimp and golden shiners of any entrance not more than 1 inch in spread. be used as bait for sportfishing by the angler
size, or other freshwater nongame fish, includ- ■■ Any game fish taken by these methods must who caught them. Whole pickerel or bream
ing catfish, less than 8-inches total length may be released immediately. or parts thereof may not be used as bait for
trotlines or bush hooks or any method other
than by rod and reel or pole and line.
■■ Panfish less than 4 inches in total length
Taking and possession of freshwater mussels raised by a licensed aquaculture facility may
be purchased and used for bait.
Certain families of freshwater mussels may be Sizes indicated are average
collected for personal use. The bag limit for adult dimensions for Release/Movement of fish
freshwater mussels from these families is 10 per identification purposes only. Possession and transport of nonnative fishes
person (or 20 half shells). The possession limit is is prohibited.
two days bag limit (see images to right and FAQ, Northern black bass (Micropterus salmoides
page 27). salmoides) are on the conditional non-native
species list. Stocking of northern black bass
Mussels shall be taken by hand-picking only. Use south and east of the Suwannee River is prohib-
of brailles, crowfoot bars, or other mechanical 3 inches 3½ inches
ited. Pure Florida bass (Micropterus salmoides
methods is prohibited. Freshwater mussels, live Florida Paper
Shiny Spike floridanus) may only be purchased from per-
or dead, may not be taken for later sale. Pondshell
mitted hatcheries with pure Florida bass stocks
authenticated by the FWC. (See MyFWC.com/
Other clams Fishing, select "Freshwater Fishing," then select
Species of freshwater mussels from other families, such 1½ inches "Pond Management" and "Commercial Sources
as the Asian clam, have no bag or possession limits. of Fish." For details see Chapter 68-5, F.A.C. at
www.FLrules.org.)
Protected Sturgeons
The species of sturgeon found in Florida—Atlantic (Acipenser oxyrinchus), Gulf
(A. o. desotoi), and shortnose sturgeons (Acipenser brevirostrum)—are protected
both federally and in the state of Florida. No
person shall take, possess or sell any sturgeon
or parts thereof, or their nests or eggs, except
as allowed by specific federal or state permit or
authorization. People who inadvertently catch one
must immediately release it alive back to the water.
It is illegal to possess grass carp
or alligator gar without a permit.
Triploid grass carp are used for Alligator gar are found only in the
aquatic vegetation control and may not panhandle rivers and grow to more than
be stocked or harvested without a 120 pounds. Their gator–like snout is
permit. They grow to over 40 pounds. distinct. Due to their limited numbers,
harvest is restricted to individuals with
a valid scientific collector’s permit.
Bass • Crappie • Blue Gill • Stripe
In Your Local Stores or Contact Us
800-762-4701; www.sliderfishing.com
Grass carp illustration by Ted Walke; Alligator gar by Duane Raver, Jr. “Finessee Fishing Began Here”
***Free Catalog***
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2017–2018 13BAG & LENGTH LIMITS
Statewide bag ■■ It is illegal to possess grass carp or alligator Hammock creeks lying between Lake
Talquin and State Road 267, those por-
and length limits gar without a permit; these fish must be
released immediately (see page 13). tions of Blount's, Freeman [Stoutamire],
Special bag and length limits apply to some ■■ Anglers participating in TrophyCatch, who and Harvey and Polk creeks lying between
lakes, rivers (this page) and Fish Management are in compliance with TrophyCatch rules Lake Talquin and State Road 20): Crappie
Areas (pages 21–26). Other fishes considered and fish handling guidelines, may be in tem- less than 10 inches in total length must be
to be nongame fishes have no bag or posses- porary possession of one bass 13 pounds or released immediately.
sion limits, except as noted in individual Fish greater over the legal length limit and bag ■■ Silver Glen Springs in Lake and Marion
Management Area regulations. limit while waiting for FWC staff certifica- counties and Salt Springs in Marion
No person shall take in any one day more tion. The fish must then be live-released in County: Fishing is prohibited in and within
than the following bag limits of freshwater the water body where it was caught. 50 yards of the springs.
game fish: ■■ Keep game fish intact: black bass, striped ■■ Rainbow Springs, Marion County: Fishing
■■ 5 Black bass (including largemouth, Suwan- bass and white bass or their hybrids, peacock is prohibited from the headwaters of Rain-
nee, spotted, Choctaw and shoal bass, indi- bass, or black crappie and panfish (for black bow Springs to a point one mile downstream
vidually or in total), only one of which may be crappie and panfish, only in waters where on Rainbow River within Marion County.
16 inches or longer in total length. There is no minimum-length or slot-size limits for these ■■ Wildcat Lake, Marion County (Ocala
minimum length limit for largemouth bass. fish apply) may not be filleted, nor their head National Forest): Black bass must be
»» No person shall kill or possess any Suwan- or tail fin removed, until the angler has com- released immediately.
nee, shoal, spotted, or Choctaw bass that pleted fishing for the day. ■■ St. Johns River Water Management Area
is less than 12 inches in total length. (Farm 13, including the Stick Marsh),
»» Chipola River: No person shall kill or Indian River and Brevard counties: Black
possess any shoal bass in the section Special bag bass must be released immediately.
■■ S.N. Knight Tract, Indian River County
between Peacock Bridge (Peacock Bridge
Road; County Road 278, Jackson County) and length limits (locally known as Kenansville Lake): Black
and Johnny Boy Landing (Johnny Boy See Fish Management Area regulations for bag bass must be released immediately.
Landing Road, Calhoun County). and length limits for lakes in the Fish Manage- ■■ Lake Okeechobee: Crappie (speckled perch)
■■ 50 Panfish including bluegill, redear sunfish ment Area system (Pages 21–26). less than 10 inches in total length must be
(shellcracker), flier, longear sunfish, mud ■■ Jim Woodruff Reservoir, Lake Seminole. released immediately. Lake Okeechobee, for
sunfish, shadow bass, spotted sunfish In the waters of and on the banks of the purposes of these rules, is defined as any
(stumpknocker), warmouth and redbreast waters of Lake Seminole — bounded on point lakeward of a boundary line delineated
sunfish, individually or in total. the west by Florida State Road No. 271, by the following points:
■■ 25 Crappie (speckled perch). on the south by the Jim Woodruff Dam, »» Intersection of St. Rd. 78 and U.S. 441
■■ 20 Striped bass, white bass, and sunshine on the east by a line immediately east of »» U.S. 441 SE to St. Rd. 5 (“80”)
bass (individually or in total), of which only the Chattahoochee Marina, also known »» St. Rd. 5 (“80”) to St. Rd. 25 (U.S. 27)
6 may be 24 inches or longer in total length. as the Booster Club, running northwest »» St. Rd. 25 (U.S. 27) to St. Rd. 78
»» In the Suwannee River, areas north and across the lake to the tip of land at the »» St. Rd. 78 to U.S. 441
west of the Suwannee River, and in any junction of the Flint and Chattahoochee Including:
tributary, creek or stream of the Suwannee Rivers, west of Spring Creek; and on the »» Harney Pond Canal (C-41) north of St.
River: the bag limit for striped bass is 3, north by the Herman Talmadge Bridge Rd. 78 to South Florida Water Mgmnt.
each of which must be at least 18 inches across the Chattahoochee River: 10 black District (SFWMD) structure S-71
in total length (20 fish combined bag limit) bass, each must be 12 inches or greater in »» C-41-A Canal, southeast of S-84
(See map page 20). total length; 15 striped bass, white bass and »» Indian Prairie Canal (C-40) north of St.
■■ 2 Butterfly peacock bass, only one of which sunshine bass (individually or in total), of Rd. 78 to SFWMD structure S-72
may be 17 inches or longer in total length. which no more than two may be 22 inches »» All of Taylor Creek and Nubbin Slough
■■ 25 American eels, must be nine inches or or longer in total length; 30 crappie (speck- in Okeechobee County
greater in total length. The recreational bag led perch); 50 panfish (does not include crap- »» C-38/Kissimmee River south of SFWMD
limit for American eels is 25 per angler per pie); 15 pickerel (chain, grass and redfin). structure S-65E to St. Rd. 78
day. Wholesale/Retail purchase exemption. Possession limit is 50 fish total, regardless »» All of L-50 Canal in Glades County
Recreational anglers purchasing American of species. »» Fisheating Creek to U. S. 27
eel as bait may possess more than the legal ■■ St. Marys River and its tributaries: 10 »» All of Sportsman’s Canal (LD-3) in Glades
bag limit provided that the eels were pur- black bass, each must be 12 inches or greater County
chased from a licensed dealer. in total length; two striped bass, sunshine ■■ Perdido River: 10 black bass; 15 striped
bass or white bass, both of which must be bass, white bass and sunshine bass (only 5
Notes: at least 22 inches in total length; 30 crappie of which may be 22 inches or longer in total
■■ No person shall have in his possession more (speckled perch); 50 panfish (does not length); 30 crappie (speckled perch, all of
than two days’ bag limit of freshwater game include crappie); 15 pickerel (chain, grass which must by 9 inches or longer); 50 panfish
fish (see Rule 68A-23.005 for details). and redfin). (does not include crappie, possession limit
■■ Each angler is responsible for his or her own ■■ Lake Talquin, Leon and Gadsden counties is 50 fish total, regardless of species).
bag limit. It is illegal to transport or possess (including that portion of the Ochlock- ■■ Lake Jackson (Walton County): 5 black
more than two days’ bag limit of fish per onee River lying between Lake Talquin bass (all of which must be 12 inches or
licensed angler without a commercial license. and the railroad trestle that is located greater in total length, only one of which
Exceptions are fish legally acquired from immediately below U.S. Highway 90, that may be longer than 22 inches in total length);
aquaculturists (fish farmers) for use in portion of the Little River lying between 15 striped bass, white bass and sunshine
aquaria, for brood stock, pond stocking, or Lake Talquin and County Road 268, that bass (only 5 of which may be 22 inches or
properly marked for the market. portion of the Rocky Comfort Creek lying longer in total length); 30 crappie (speckled
■■ No native freshwater fish or their eggs may between Lake Talquin and County Road perch); 50 panfish (does not include crappie,
be taken or possessed except as permitted by 65-B, and that portion of Bear Creek lying possession limit is 50 fish total, regardless
these rules nor shall anyone wantonly or will- between Lake Talquin and Bear Creek of species).
fully waste the same. Road, those portions of Ocklawaha and
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Florida freshwater fishes are divided into game fish that have specific bag and length limits and may only be taken with pole-and-line or rod-
and-reel, and nongame fish, which are all others. A license is required to take nongame fish, but additional gear types are allowed (see Page 12).
Non-native fish are those that do not occur in Florida naturally; most should be harvested and never released. Exceptions are peacock bass,
which is a game fish, and triploid grass carp, which are stocked for vegetation control (see Page 13). Where applicable, state record (SR) weights
and the Big Catch (BC) qualifying length or weight for adults are provided. See Page 4 or MyFWC.com/BigCatch for more details including
youth qualifying sizes, slams, specialist, master, elite angler and the TrophyCatch citizen-science rewards program.
Fish art by Duane Raver, Jr.; and Diane R. Peebles.
BLACK BASS
Largemouth bass: Spotted/Choctaw bass: Shoal bass: Suwannee Bass:
SR 17.27 lbs; BC 24"/8.0 lbs SR 3.75 lbs; BC 16"/2.0 lbs SR 5.20 lbs; BC 16"/2.0 lbs SR 3.89 lbs; BC 14"/1.5 lbs
PANFISH
GAME FISH
Black crappie: Bluegill: Redear sunfish:
SR 3.83 lbs; BC 14"/2.0 lbs SR 2.95 lbs; BC 10"/1.0 lb SR 4.86 lbs; BC 11"/1.25 lbs
Flier: Redbreast sunfish: Warmouth: Spotted sunfish:
SR 1.35 lbs; BC 8"/0.5 lb SR 2.08 lbs; BC 9"/0.5 lb SR 2.44 lbs; BC 9"/0.5 lb SR 0.83 lbs; BC 7"/0.5 lb
TEMPERATE BASS CICHLID
Striped bass: White bass: Sunshine bass: Butterfly peacock bass:
SR 42.25 lbs; BC 30"/12.0 lbs SR 4.69 lbs; BC 15"/2.5 lbs SR 16.31 lbs; BC 20"/5.0 lbs SR 9.08 lbs; BC 18"/4.0 lbs
CATFISH
NONGAME FISH
Channel catfish: White catfish: Yellow bullhead: Brown bullhead:
SR 44.50 lbs; BC 25"/12.0 lbs SR 18.88 lbs; BC 22"/5.0 lbs SR 5.05 lbs; BC 14"/1.5 lbs SR 7.02 lbs; BC 16"/2.0 lbs
BOWFIN, SHAD, PICKEREL & GAR
Longnose gar:
American shad: SR 41.00 lbs; BC 40"/15.0 lbs
SR 5.19 lbs; BC 18"/3.0 lbs
Bowfin: Chain pickerel: Florida/Spotted gar:
SR 19.00 lbs; BC 28"/8.0 lbs SR 6.96 lbs; BC 22"/3.0 lbs SR 9.44 lbs; BC 28"/4.0 lbs
For details on state records and angler recognition programs visit: MyFWC.com/BigCatch
16 2017–2018 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission7-Inch
Flathead catfish: Blue catfish: Tapered
NONNATIVE-NONGAME FISH
SR 57.50 lbs; BC 36"/25.0 lbs SR 69.50 lbs; BC 36"/25.0 lbs
FLEX Fillet
High carbon steel with
full tang construction
Razor sharp serrated blade
Jaguar guapote: Mayan cichlid: Oscar:
with non-stick coating
SR Open 2.0 lbs; BC 13"/1.5 lbs SR 2.37 lbs; BC 11"/1.0 lb SR 2.34 lbs; BC 11"/1.25 lbs
Big red no-slip-grip
handle with safety
guards and trigger grip
“one cut and
you’re Through™”
Yellow perch: Common carp: Blue tilapia:
SR 1.47 lbs; BC 12"/0.75 lb SR 40.56 lbs; BC 30"/20.0 lbs SR 9.57 lbs; BC 18"/5.0 lbs
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Working Together to Ensure Great
Fishing Now and Into the Future
The Division of Freshwater Fisheries Man- Regulations Summary on page 14 or visit www. Florida’s black bass species and our anglers.
agement ensures the best freshwater fishing myfwc.com/fishing/freshwater/regulations/ for The BBMP included management strategies for
opportunities in Florida’s lakes and rivers an electronic copy. habitat, public access, new fishing opportuni-
through stocking desirable sportfish, effec- ties, stocking, genetics, harvest management
tively managing fishing effort and harvest, and outreach and education. The BBMP can be
enhancing habitats and maintaining our 80 viewed at http://myfwc.com/fishing/freshwater/
fish management areas. Throughout the past black-bass/.
year, FWC staff have forged new partnerships, The future of fishing relies on introducing
engaged anglers and communities, completed people to the sport. You can help by taking
many innovative aquatic habitat enhancement someone out fishing with you! Inviting someone
projects, and stocked a total of five million fish you care about to explore, enjoy, and conserve
into Florida’s freshwaters. your local resources will help ignite a love for
The FWC operates two freshwater hatcher- the sport of fishing and an appreciation for its
ies that produce seven freshwater fish species conservation. Check out fishing camps and clin-
which are stocked into lakes, rivers, and ponds ics with the Florida Youth Conservation Center
to provide anglers with more chances to create Network at www.fyccn.org/ and Becoming an
great fishing memories. The Florida Bass Con- Outdoors Woman classes at www.myfwc.com/
servation Center at the Richloam Fish Hatchery education/outdoor-skills/outdoors-woman/.
features a visitor center and observation area, The mission of FWC’s Division of Freshwater
and produces the majority of freshwater fish Fisheries Management is “To manage, enhance
that are stocked in public freshwaters through- and conserve Florida’s freshwater aquatic life for
out peninsular Florida. The Blackwater Fish public benefit” and the staff in this Division are
For largemouth bass only one may be 16 inches
Hatchery is located in Santa Rosa County and continually striving to find new ways to make
or longer in total length per angler per day, with no
is primarily responsible for stocking waters in that mission a reality. Please reach out to FWC
minimum length limit.
the panhandle, and the production of striped staff that you may see while enjoying the out-
bass and sunshine bass. New bass regulations and other innovative doors! We want to help make your fishing expe-
One of the most innovative conservation programs resulted from the adoption of the riences as wonderful and memorable as possible.
projects that is currently underway is the his- Black Bass Management Plan (BBMP), which Please visit the inside cover of this Regulations
toric stocking of one million Florida largemouth included extensive stakeholder input and out- Summary to find a list of our regional offices
bass into Lake Apopka—which was the first lined strategies for the long-term benefit of to plan a visit or contact your local FWC staff.
experimental endeavor of its kind for the lake.
Lake Apopka is Florida’s fourth largest lake
and was once a renowned fishery. This unprec-
edented two-year stocking effort required a
unique method of spawning bass that will pro- How to measure your catch
duce 1 million largemouth bass to be stocked
into the lake in an effort to restore the fishery. Total Length is the straight line distance from the most forward point of the head
The Division of Freshwater Fisheries Manage- with the mouth closed to the farthest tip of the tail with the tail squeezed or
ment also introduced a new set of black bass compressed. Girth is the circumference around the fattest part of the fish. For a
regulations in July 2016 that simplifies state- bass weight calculator based on length and girth visit MyFWC.com/Bass-Formula.
wide bass regulations and provides the greatest
potential for high quality bass fishing and tro-
phy bass abundance. The new black bass regula-
tions allow the daily possession of only one bass Measure Girth around the fattest part of the fish
over 16 inches and organizers of bass tourna-
ments can apply for exemptions at www.myfwc.
com/license/freshwater/bass-tournament/. The
new black bass regulations can be found in this
Measure Total Length with mouth closed and tail squeezed together
18 2017–2018 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation CommissionYou can also read
