Florida Fishing--Questions and Answers

Select a question from the quick list below, or you can read through the questions and answers. (Tip, in most browsers control-F will open up a find window and you can search the page for a specific word or words, or try clicking "edit" and then "find" in the top menu of your browser). NOTE: If you don't see what you're looking for here, try the FWC's knowledge base.

Quick List of Questions, with Links to Answers

What is the value of Florida's Fisheries?
What is a "slot limit"?
How do I measure total length according to the rules?
What are "bag limits" intended to do?
Why not have closed spawning seasons?
Why allow tournaments?
Is culling allowed?
What regulations apply to frogs?
What regulations apply to freshwater crayfish (AKA: crawfish, crawdads)?
What regulations apply to freshwater turtles?
What regulations apply to clams, mussels and other mollusks?
What regulations apply to harvesting fish for home aquaria?
What about catch-and-release fishing?
When does the Commission stock lakes, ponds and rivers?
Does the Commission stock BIG bass?
How can I design and manage my own fish pond?
Where can I obtain hatchery fish for stocking my private pond?
What do I need to know to take my family fishing?
How can I estimate a bass' weight when I don't have a scale?
How can I convert metric and standard units of length, weight and volume?
How do I get a bass specialty plate?
How can I volunteer to help improve fishing?
How can I be an Ethical Angler and better Conservation Steward?
Where can I get more information about freshwater fishing in Florida?
Where can I find maps or charts about freshwater fishing in Florida?
What are the biggest lakes in Florida?
What is the economic impact of freshwater fishing in Florida?
How many licenses are sold in Florida?
What marketing opportunities are there for me that would also help improve fishing?
Are freshwater fish safe to eat?
Where can I go to get help if I find a diseased fish?
What causes fish kills?
What type of fish did I Catch; how can identify it?
Is noodling (catching catfish by hand while immersed in the water) legal?
Do I need a freshwater or saltwater fishing license or both?
Does everyone on board a recreational fishing boat need a license?
What does a senior license certificate cover and where do I get it?
What does a youth need to do to fish legally?
How do I get a replacement license?
What is the penalty for fishing without a license, keeping too many fish or illegal sized fish?

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

What is a "slot limit"?--Answer: A slot limit is a protected size range, requiring release of fish within a specific length range (the slot). Anglers may keep the more abundant smaller fish, while recycling intermediate-sized fish through catch-and-release. Anglers have an option to keep a very large fish should they catch the once-in-a-lifetime trophy. This produces a higher quality fishery when there is heavy fishing pressure and adequate forage for larger fish, typical of many of Florida's better known bass lakes. With a 15 to 19 inch protected size range, for example, you may keep fish shorter than 15 inches or longer than 19 inches, but you must immediately release all fish between 15 and 19 inches.

How do I measure total length according to the rules?--Answer: The total length is the maximum length of the fish, with the mouth closed and the tail fin pinched together. The best way to obtain this length is to push the fish's snout up against a vertical surface with the mouth closed and the fish laying along a tape measure, then pinch the tail fin closed and determine the total length. Do NOT pull a flexible tape measure along the curve of the fish. Illustrated instructions on measuring fish and estimating weight are also available from our fish identification and biology page.

What are "bag limits" intended to do?-- Answer: Bag or creel limits restrict the number of fish you can keep each day. They are intended to prevent over harvest and to help distribute the catch among anglers. In most cases, bag limits serve more as a goal for fishermen than as a tool to reduce harvest. For instance, without size restrictions, a three-bass daily limit would be required to significantly reduce harvest of largemouth bass. However, the general five-bass daily limit, in combination with minimum length limits or protected size ranges, provides adequate protection for Florida's heavily fished bass populations. Please note, bag limits apply to individual anglers, who are appropriately licensed or legally exempt. The individual is responsible for taking their own fish, and just because an angler has not caught their limit, does not mean other anglers in the party can exceed their limit. Also, any fish that is released after a bag limit is caught in freshwater must be released immediately and unharmed, culling is only allowed if the released fish are healthy enough to have a good chance of surviving.

Why not have closed spawning seasons?--Answer: Research has indicated that removing a black bass (smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, etc.) from it's nest can reduce nesting success for an individual fish, and that nest failure can occur even if the bass is caught-and-released. The likelihood of a released bass returning to its nest without a negative impact to egg or fry survival depends on several factors. The amount of time a bass has been played during the fight, and the amount of time and manner in which the hook is removed by the angler, dictates how much the fish has been stressed. Stress levels determine whether the bass will return to the nest, and whether or not it can successfully provide parental care to the eggs or fry if the bass does return. During the time in which the bass is removed from the nest, there is no protection from predators such as bluegill or crayfish. Obviously, if an angler releases a spawning fish, it decreases the chance of nest failure, but it does not guarantee it.

Although catch-and-release or harvest of spawning bass decreases fry production, the question remains whether a reduction in reproductive success will reduce the number of bass that grow to juvenile life-stages on a lake-wide basis. For decades, fisheries biologists have realized that largemouth bass produce more fry than the available habitat and food supply can support. Studies done on Lake George, Florida in the mid-1980s concluded that the abundance of young-of-the-year largemouth bass was no different in protected spawning areas and unprotected areas. Our current knowledge suggests that weather patterns, quality of nursery habitat for juvenile bass, water quality, food supply and other extrinsic factors effect bass reproductive success more than angling.

This brings us back to the question of reducing the harvest of "large" fish with a closed season. As an agency, we promote optimum sustained use of Florida's fish and wildlife resources. We attempt to accommodate multiple user groups that have a tremendous diversity of fishing techniques, goals, philosophies and ethics. Fisheries biologists generally think that restrictive length limits (minimum and slot length limits) are the most practical management tool to control the harvest of quality-sized fish. As you well know, we implemented statewide minimum size limits in 1992. Our agency is increasing the number of lakes that have quality fishing regulations (e.g., 15 to 24 inch protective slot limit) every year. Length limits protect quality size bass, which is your main concern, but it does not restrict the angler's use of the resource. In addition, we want to provide the maximum opportunity for our anglers consistent with sustaining the resource, so adding an unnecessary inconvenience, such as a closed season, does not match our goal of assuring customer satisfaction.

Our agency is not alone, a recent survey indicated that there are no statewide closed seasons on black bass species (i.e., largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass) in any southeastern state. Northern states historically had closed fishing seasons, dating back to the mid-1700's, but there has been a trend to liberalize seasonal restrictions over the past few decades.

Why allow tournaments?-- Answer: There have been numerous studies done around the country to look at tournament mortality of bass after being held in live wells all day.� You are correct in that some bass cannot survive the stress.� Approximately 25% (1 out of 4) bass die after being released following a tournament.� Keep in mind that this varies a lot, and can range between 0% and 100% mortality.� We have attempted to educate bass anglers to take measures that improve the survival of bass during and following bass tournaments.� We have educational brochures for anglers and tournament organizers.�� The newest information available is being put together by biologists in Oklahoma and Mississippi that should improve the survival of bass following tournaments.� When this information becomes available, we will pass it on to tournament anglers.

Please keep in mind that almost all tournament anglers release their catch.� Legally, they can keep or harvest all of these fish if they wanted to.� If they kept all the bass they caught, mortality would be 100% instead of the average of 25% following tournaments.

Is culling allowed?--Answer: The rules are different in fresh water and salt water. Culling has always been allowed in fresh water provided that released fish are alive and that culling is done immediately. The rationale in part is biological but in part historical. Recreational fishing has been regulated for much longer in fresh water than in salt water, partially because of perceived impacts on the resource (some people used to think the oceans were too large to be impacted by recreational fishing or management efforts). Culling was allowed very early on in fresh water and became widely accepted as a fresh water practice throughout the nation for both individual anglers and tournament anglers when live wells became common. Wanton waste rules continue to prohibit discarding dead fish to deliberately replace them with a larger live one. Remember that fish that are illegal to possess because of species, size or bag limits cannot be kept, even if they died or are likely to die as a result of catching them, consequently they must be released.

What regulations apply to frogs?--Answer: There are no seasons, bag or size limits for frogs and a recreational license is not needed. To sell frogs or take frogs to sell a commercial fish dealers license is required. Frogs may be taken in accordance with the provisions outlined in 68A-26.002, Florida Administrative Code, including by the use of gigs�provided that gigs are not specifically prohibited in the area. For up-to-date details on specific Florida Administrative Codes, copy the code number, click here and paste the number in the appropriate search blank.

What regulations apply to freshwater crayfish?--Answer: There are no seasons, gear, bag or size limits for freshwater crayfish and neither a recreational nor commercial license is needed. Avoid taking Florida's imperiled crayfish (Panama City, Sims Sink and Black Creek crayfishes) and all cave-inhabiting crayfish.
A list of endangered species can be found at www.myfwc.com/pubs/endanger.html .

What regulations apply to freshwater turtles?--Answer: Wildlife regulations (68A-25.002(9) Florida Administrative Code) allow turtles to be taken manually or by baited hooks, bow, dip nets, traps so designed that any freshwater fish taken therein may escape, or by spearing only during daylight hours. They prohibit bucket traps, snares, and shooting with firearms for taking turtles. No person shall buy, sell, or possess for sale any alligator snapping turtle, box turtle, Barbour's map turtle, Escambia River map turtle, diamondback terrapin, river cooter, or loggerhead musk turtle, or parts thereof. No person shall possess more than two Barbour's map turtles, two Escambia River map turtles, two diamondback terrapins, two river cooters, two box turtles, two loggerhead musk turtles, or one alligator snapping turtle unless authorized by permit from the executive director. River cooters may not be taken from 15 April to 31 July. In addition, no softshell turtles nor their eggs may be taken from the wild during the period 1 May to 31 July, and no person shall possess more than 50 eggs taken from the wild in the aggregate of species of freshwater turtle native to Florida except as authorized by permit from the Executive Director. For up-to-date details on specific Florida Administrative Codes, copy the code number, click here and paste the number in the appropriate search blank.

What regulations apply to clams, mussels and other mollusks?--Answer: Regulations governing taking and possession of freshwater mussels are covered by FAC 68A-23.015.

To summarize, "Taking" live or dead freshwater mussels for the purpose of sale, as well as "selling", is prohibited.

Daily Bag Limit: No person shall take more than 10 freshwater mussels, or 20 half-shell of the families Unionidae and Margaritiferidae (phylum Mollusca, Class Pelecypoda) per day. Additionally, no person may possess more than two day's bag limit (20 individual, 40 half-shells) of any mussels of these families. Any deviation to these restrictions requires a permit from the Executive Director, in accordance with 68A-9.002.

Freshwater mussels from families other than the two mentioned above, such as the Asian clam, may be taken for bait or personal use.

Mussels may only be taken by "hand-picking". Use of brailles, crowfoot bars, or other mechanical methods is prohibited.

For descriptions of these and other mollusks, including information on endangered species see the Florida Museum of Natural History. For up-to-date details on specific Florida Administrative Codes, copy the code number, click here and paste the number in the appropriate search blank. Additional information about the status of Florida mussels, from Gary Warren, FWC biologist is also available here. For photos see mussels.

What regulations apply to harvesting fish for home aquaria?--Answer: The rules and regulations for recreational take and possession apply (see MyFWC.com/fishing/rules.html). You cannot be in possession, or your aquarium be in possession, of more than these limits, legal methods of collecting and license requirements also apply. You need a freshwater fishing license to take (defined as "taking, attempting to take, pursuing, hunting, molesting, capturing, or killing any freshwater fish, their nests or eggs, by any means, whether or not such actions result in obtaining possession of such freshwater fish or their nests or eggs.") Legal license exemptions are listed on our license site (an example would be kids under 16 years of age). You will also need to avoid taking Florida's endangered species. A list of them can be found at MyFWC.com/imperiledspecies/.

John R. Quinn's book titled, "Our Native Fishes--The Aquarium Hobbyist's Guide to Observing, Collecting, and Keeping Them" has information on keeping native fishes and covers many Florida species. Additionally, take a look at the native fish conservancy web site (http://www.nativefish.org/).

What about catch-and-release fishing?--Answer: Catch-and-release is a proven technique to create and maintain quality bass fishing in productive waters. This is also a tool to protect the rare trophies in our less fertile lakes, such as those in the Ocala National Forest. Research at Tenoroc Fish Management Area has shown that even very large bass may be caught several times with proper handling techniques. Keys to successful release are:

Keep fish out of water as little as possible, they don't breathe any better in air than you do under water.

Use hooks with barbs bent down or filed off, to allow easy removal.

Strike quickly, to avoid the fish swallowing the hook.

Play fish rapidly, to prevent wearing them out; the more they fight and jump, the higher their stress hormones and less chance of survival.

Don't use gaffs or even abrasive landing nets, to prevent scale loss.

Don't squeeze the fish, support it under the belly with a grip on the lower jaw, to prevent damage to internal organs or damaging the jaw.

Use dehooking tools, to minimize the time out of water, and tendency to squeeze the fish.

Cut the line if the hook was swallowed, the stomach acid will dissolve the hook.

Don't use fish stringers, to prevent fatal damage to the gills.

Revive fish when needed by gently moving them back and forth horizontally in the water, to help get oxygen to the gills. In Florida's fresh waters the fish are seldom deep enough to require a bass to be vented or fizzed, this just adds stress--don't do it.
(see Shelby brochure for a humorous look at the ten commandments or releasing your bass)

If you are placing a fish in a live well, make sure the aerator is working and the water temperature is at least as cool as the water the fish are from, use a little ice to cool it down if necessary. Commercial adjuncts that provide a little salt can help the fish to deal with the stress.

When does the Commission stock lakes, ponds and rivers?--Answer: If suitable habitat exists, a pair of naturally spawning native fish can repopulate several hundred acres. However, lack of quality habitat may lead to a food shortage at a critical life stage or a failure to spawn successfully. In these cases, stocking bass or bluegill may lead to more adult fish. Large fingerling (5-10 inches) largemouth bass were stocked in Lake Carlton (Orange County) in an experiment to address this problem in a lake with degraded habitat. Striped bass do not spawn adequately in Florida, and stocking is required to maintain a fishery. Channel catfish are abundant in rivers and streams but rarely spawn in ponds. Commission stocking programs maintain sport fisheries for these species in many lakes and rivers. The Commission does not stock private ponds or lakes, but a commercial fish dealers listing is available. 2004-05 Completed Stocking Report. 2006 Anticipated Stocking Plan.

Does the Commission stock BIG bass?--Answer: As indicated above, stocking largemouth bass to increase the number of fish in a lake almost never works unless there has been a recent fish kill or there is a problem with bass reproduction, possibly due to environmental problems. For the past seven years, we have been training largemouth bass to eat artificial feed at our fish hatcheries to make it practical to grow bass to larger sizes for stocking purposes. Our research indicated the survival of pellet-reared largemouth bass stocked into public lakes was 3% or less in almost all cases. We are currently attempting to raise advanced fingerling largemouth bass on live prey to see if they survive better than pellet-reared largemouth bass. More than 150,000 of these bass were stocked into Lake Talquin over two years, and resulting in one of the most successful bass stocking experiments to date.

You have probably read about stocking programs in other southeastern states. Fish and Game Agencies are stocking their reservoirs in some southeastern states almost exclusively to introduce the Florida strain of largemouth bass, which grow to trophy size more readily than northern strain bass. Florida anglers are fortunate that this fast growing subspecies of largemouth bass already occurs in our water bodies. Unfortunately, however, stocking bass has not been the solution to increasing the number of largemouth bass in Florida lakes. The proposed Florida Bass Conservation Center has the potential if funded, to make some additional progress in this area.

How can I design and manage my own fish pond?--Answer: Both small natural ponds and man-made ponds on private property can be effectively managed to provide recreational fishing. To help you design and manage your pond, the Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management has made available on-line a series of guidelines explaining the ecology of fish ponds, and how to design a fish pond, and manage its aquatic plants, fishes and water quality.

Where can I obtain hatchery fish for stocking my private pond?--Answer: Although the Commission does not endorse any particular supplier, we do maintain a list of known hatcheries who can help you with your fish stocking needs.

What do I need to know to take my family fishing?--Answer: You can find many sites close to home that are suitable for a family trip, many have nearby bait-and-tackle shops to answer your questions, where you can get your license and any last minute supplies and snacks. Finding a site with a restroom nearby also helps. A list of sites with fishing piers and amenities is provided on our web site. A great little help sheet was written for our "City Fisher" newsletter that has many tips.

How can I estimate a bass' weight when I don't have a scale?--Answer: There are numerous length-weight charts and formulas for estimating a bass' size. Unfortunately, none of them are perfect. The one Commission biologists use is: Log (weight in grams)= -4.83 + 1.923 x Log (total length in millimeters) + 1.157 x Log (girth in millimeters). Obviously that is too complex for most anglers to use in the field. A quick, though very rough, estimate of torpedo shaped fish like young bass can be obtained by using: Total Length (in inches)-squared, times girth (in inches) divided by 1200. Another common option used for long estimating bass weights (e.g., touted by Hal Schramm and "Outdoor Life" is: Girth (in inches)-squared, times length (in inches) divided by 800. Click here to see how to measure a bass. Click here for a spreadsheet to calculate your bass' size using these formulas.

How can I convert between metric and standard units of length, weight and volume?--Answer: Use our Java enabled calculator to convert between the major units--it's quick and simple, if you have a version 3.0 or better browser.

How do I get a bass specialty plate?--Answer: Florida has an attractive license plate for your vehicle or trailer depicting a bass and bluegill in native habitat. You can purchase one for an extra $27 per year, of which $25 goes to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission exclusively for fish and wildlife management. To get yours, click here or contact your local tax collector. You can also have it customized with up to five characters.

How can I volunteer to help improve fishing?--Answer: The FWC actively manages aquatic habitat, enhances fishing access, monitors fish populations and angler use of our fisheries and strives to introduce youths and reintroduce adults to the pleasure of outdoor recreational activities. For all of these activities and many more the Division of Fresh Water Fisheries needs volunteers who are willing to share their time, energy and knowledge to help conserve our fisheries resources and to teach others to fish. Volunteering is a great way to help others enjoy Florida fishing and to find a little extra fulfillment and sense of accomplishment in your own life. Contact your local regional biologist (see Map) for more information.

How can I be an Ethical Angler and better Conservation Steward?--Answer: Angling ethics is an issue that should be important to every individual who utilizes Florida's fisheries resources for any reason. There are several sets of guidelines for ethical anglers that are promulgated by various organizations. The following Angler's Code of Ethics (PDF Version) is worth reviewing. It is modified from the National Marine Fisheries Service's code:

Promote, through education and practice, ethical behavior in use of aquatic resources.

Value and respect the aquatic environment and all living things.

Avoid spilling and never dumps pollutants, such as gas or oil.

Dispose of trash, including worn lines, leaders and hooks, in appropriate containers, and recycle whenever possible. (see Monofilament recycling)

Keep fishing sites litter-free.

If necessary, purchase and keep current your fishing license. If you are exempt, you may still purchase a license as a way to contribute to conservation (see MyFWC.com/licenses).

Take precautionary measures to prevent spread of exotic plants and animals. (see exotic critters and non-native freshwater fishes.)

Learn and obey angling and boating regulations (see MyFWC.com for details).

Treat other anglers, boaters and property owners with courtesy and respect.

Respect property rights, and never trespass on private lands or waters.

Keep no more fish than needed for consumption, and never wastefully discard fish.

Carefully handle and release alive all fish that are unwanted or prohibited by regulation. (see catch-and-release tips)

Use tackle and techniques that minimize harm to fish when �catch and release� angling.

"Conservation Stewardship" is taking personal responsibility to sustain, and enhance living and non-living resources, while accepting the obligation to the environment and future users. This includes a broader commitment than simply doing what's right when you are recreating. It involves a day-to-day commitment to conserve water and energy and make wise choices when it comes to your personal actions such as using pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers in areas that impact fish and wildlife or their habitats including ground or surface water. Many sites offer great advise on how to be a conservation steward, one is the Private Landowner Network, another is Audubon; the Sierra Club has a water pledge and tips.

What are the biggest lakes in Florida?--Answer: Florida has 3 million acres of lakes and 10,500 miles of rivers and streams. There are 7,710 named lakes over 10 acres in size (more fast facts). The biggest are: Lake Okeechobee is the biggest at 448,000 acres, followed by Lake George (46,000), Jim Woodruff Reservoir (37,500), Lake Kissimmee (34,948) and Lake Apopka (30,671). For a complete list of lakes over 1,000 acres, click here. For top fishing sites and quarterly forecasts, click here.

What is the economic impact of freshwater fishing in Florida?--Answer: In 2006, the US Census Bureau did a "National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Related Recreation" to determine the amount of participation and economic impact of these outdoor activities nationwide. The study was conducted under a grant from the US Fish and Wildlife Service and is the benchmark for this type economic analysis and allows unbiased state comparisons. The specific data on Florida is a wealth of information. Southwick Associates has provided a summary of the top fishing states in various categories that again justify Florida's status as the Fishing Capital of the World and published "Sportfishing in America, an Economic Engine and Conservation Powerhouse (Rev. Jan 2008)".

Based on the 2006 National Survey, Florida again ranks number one in:

In-State Anglers (2.8 million vs. #2 Texas with 2.5 million),
Angler Expenditures in State ($4.4 billion vs. #2 Texas with $3.4 billion),
Angler supported jobs (75,068 vs. #2 Texas with 59,938),
State and local taxes generated by sportfishing ($440 million vs. #2 Texas with $392 million).
Non-resident (tourists) anglers (885,000 vs. #2 North Carolina 395,000).
Non-resident expenditures ($1.0 billion vs. #2 Wisconsin $0.6 billion).

Anglers averaged 17.2 days per year fishing in Florida, for a total of 46.3 million days of quality outdoor recreation. Of those, 24.4 million days were spent in fresh water by 1.4 million anglers and, 23.1 million days were spent in saltwater by 2.0 million anglers.

Non-Resident anglers spent over $1 billion in direct retail sales in Florida--not mentioning the other dollars they spent on tourism while in Florida. The next highest state for non-resident angler spending was Wisconsin with less than $0.6 billion No wonder Florida is the "Fishing Capital of the World." A further breakdown based on the detailed economic analysis by Southwick and Associates includes the multiplier or ripple effect on the community caused by these sales and visitors.

Saltwater Fishing - $5.1 billion, 51,588 jobs
Freshwater Fishing - $2.4 billion, 23,480 jobs
Total Fishing - $7.5 billion (some anglers don�t specify fresh or salt so the total is less than the sum of freshwater and saltwater), 75,736 jobs
Generated $558 million in Federal tax revenues
Generated $443 million in state and local tax revenues

The following hourly expenditure analysis is based on 2001 data (the latest broken down to this level of detail). You can use an inflation calculator to update these figures to the current year. Black bass anglers fished a total of 12.2 million days in Florida, for an average of 9.3 days per angler in 2001. Black bass continue to be the most popular sportfish in the nation in terms of fishing effort. In Florida black bass anglers fish an average of 19 days each year. Nationally, an average angler spent $337 in trip-related expenses (food, transportation, bait, ice, etc.) , $106 for fishing equipment (rods, reels, tackle boxes, etc), $18 for auxiliary equipment (clothes etc.), plus an average per year of $255 on special equipment (boats etc.), for a total of $716. Bass anglers spent significantly more with a total of $949 in trip related expenses annually (See USFWS/Black Bass Report). Southwick Associates also compiled some very interesting economic comparisons for the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation that puts this in perspective, for instance: "Annual spending by Florida anglers is five times greater than the cash receipts from the state�s orange crop ($4.08 billion vs. $786 million).

How many licenses are sold in Florida?--Answer: License sales can be highly variable between years and are influenced by factors such as gasoline prices, the economy and weather conditions. It is important to note that only about half of Florida anglers actually have to purchase a license due to various exemptions, so these numbers do not reflect participation. To learn more about fishing licenses and how the fees are used see the April 2007 FishBusters column on license fee uses and history.

Freshwater License Sales summary for FY 2006-07:

FRESHWATER UNITS TOTAL COST REVENUE

Resident 494,427 $11,459,270 $6,196,069

Non-Resident 122,924 $2,660,460 $2,660,460

Short-Term 68,484 $1,027,260 $1,027,260

Annual 54,440 $1,633,200 $1,633,200

Grand Total 617,351 $14,119,730 $8,856,529

Complete fishing/hunting license summary and detailed explanation (pdf; 30 kb)

Click chart for an enlarged printable chart of license sales (pdf; 40 kb)

What marketing opportunities are there for me that would also help improve fishing?--Answer: There are many marketing opportunities available, see "High Impact Promotional Opportunities" (PDF). Some examples include: we are looking for a sponsor for the Florida "Big Catch" Angler Recognition program, and sponsors for the Florida Bass Conservation Center. Opportunities still exist for sponsoring the Bass Specialty Plate, constructing local fishing piers, adopting boat ramps or helping with special five-year freshwater fishing license promotions. For more about these and other opportunities, contact Bob Wattendorf, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. USA Today recently did a cover story entitled "Hooking a Monster--Marketers go after Godzilla-sized fishing industry" that highlights the value of including fisheries in a wide-variety of marketing efforts.

Where can I get more information about freshwater fishing in Florida?--Answer: Information about obtaining fishing licenses, fishing locations, boat ramps, and other freshwater fishing tips available on our web site and in various publications that can be printed in Adobe Acrobat (PDF) format. Our timeline about the history of fishing and fisheries management in Florida provides some interesting insights.

Where can I find maps or charts about freshwater fishing in Florida?--Answer: We use Maps-on-Us to generate maps of our fishing sites/forecasts, boat ramp, pier, fish management areas and office locations. These maps are interactive, so you can zoom in and out, plan routes, look for local businesses (e.g., motels, restaurants, bait shops, guides). A few truly interactive maps featuring detailed fishing information are provided by Outdoor Intelligence and Fishing Hotspots, check them out here.

Good sources for charts are local bait shops and marinas, and sometimes water management district or Corps of Engineers offices. Commercial fishing chart manufacturers include: Fishing Inside Florida, PO Box 728, Fruitland Park, FL 34731 (904/365-0114), NOAA, Riverdale, MD 20737 (301/436-6990), or Kingfisher Maps, Inc., PO Box 1604, Seneca, SC 29679. Fishing Hot Spots, Inc. also provides maps (715/365-5555). The FishingMaps.com web site also provides a mail order source for fishing maps. Finally, Topozone.com has a site for on-line topological maps that is quite excellent. Yet another excellent web site is MapTech, which offers a choice of nautical maps, topo maps or aerial photos. Terra Fly at Florida International University is another powerful resource. The US EPA also has an EnviroMapper site that is very informative. See our links page for more info.

Are freshwater fish safe to eat?--Answer: Most fish caught in Florida's fresh waters are safe to eat. However, in some specific water bodies the Department of Health has issued advisories cautioning people not to eat certain species or to limit their consumption. Mercury is the only significant health problem. For other information on freshwater fisheries see our fish health web page. The Environmental Protection Agency offers a good overview of the mercury problem.

Where can I go to get help if I find a diseased fish?--Answer: Most fish caught in Florida's fresh waters that appear diseased are caught during spring and have a minor secondary infection resulting from spawning stress. During spawning, for instance, male bass fan a nest or bed out in the sand, and this abrades their skin making them susceptible to bacterial or fungal infections. However, if you find fish that seem to have something more serious wrong with them, or are having trouble with fish in your pond, there are several labs that can help.

What causes fish kills? --Answer: Fish kills can occur for many reasons, some of which are quite natural. The most common cause of fish kills in Florida's fresh water relates to low dissolved oxygen (DO) content. Most fish use their gills to absorb oxygen out of the water. The water obtains oxygen not only from surface mixing with the air, but also from oxygen given off by plants when they use light for photosynthesis. On the other hand, when it is dark plants use oxygen. In addition, bacteria that help to breakdown decaying matter (muck) on the bottom of lakes and rivers also use oxygen and their populations increase rapidly when there is an abundance of detritus (decaying material). Finally, water can hold more oxygen when it is cold. Consequently, during summer months, especially if there is a lot of rain or several cloudy days, low DO fish kills can occur. What happens is the plants can't photosynthesize as well with the clouds, the rain washes decaying leaves and detritus into the water increasing the bacterial population and the water can't hold as much oxygen because of the warm temperature. We also see numerous fish kills when the water temperature suddenly drops, especially in areas where non-native fish from more tropical regions are at the border of their cold tolerance (e.g., tilapia and armored catfish frequently die due to cold snaps). Other fish kills can be the direct result of pollutants such as herbicides or pesticides applied to lawns, golf courses etc. that get washed into our waters. For more on fish kills, please read Freshwater Fish Kills in South Florida (PDF; 276KB), or click here for some additional information and links.

What type of fish did I Catch; how can identify it?--Answer: Florida has 3 million acres of freshwater lakes and 12,000 miles of streams and rivers. From those waters over 250 different species of freshwater fishes have been collected. This includes several rather rare native fishes and 73 species of non-native fishes (fish that come from outside of the United States and would not have been found in Florida if it were not for man's intervention).

The fish species that most people tend to think about are the larger fish that are used for recreation or food. Of those, the 33 most popular are part of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) "Big Catch" program and most are described in detail in this section of our web site (click the group you want to learn about in the table above, or if you aren't certain of the group in which to find a fish you can pick it from the common names list). There is also a poster (small pdf version available for download) that illustrates these fishes and is available for schools and fishing-related businesses that will publicly display it. A separate brochure is available to identify some of Florida's common exotic fishes (pdf version).

Is noodling (catching catfish by hand while immersed in the water) legal?--Answer: taking of catfish, generally flathead or channel catfish, by means of "noodling," i.e., with bare hands while standing or being immersed in a creek or stream, is illegal.

Subsection (1) of Rule 68A-23.002, F.A.C., states that "[n]o person may take any freshwater fish except as herein provided." The term "herein," I assume, means in Rule Chapter 68A-23, F.A.C. Subsection (3) of the same rule lists the lawful means for taking "nongame fish," a category that includes catfish (see Rule 68A-1.004(46), F.A.C.). Those means do not include taking by hand and there is no other provision of the chapter authorizing "noodling."

Subsection (5) of Rule 68A-23.002, F.A.C., prohibits take of freshwater fish "by underwater swimming or diving." I am not sure whether "underwater swimming or diving" encompasses "noodling" or not. I think this uncertainty points up the fact that this practice is new to Florida and that an assessment should be made to either affirmatively allow take-by-hand or prohibit it, and the rule should be made clear.

Reiterating, the take nongame freshwater fish by means of "noodling" is not authorized by current FWC rules and such practice would constitute a violation of subsections (1) and (3) of Rule 68A-23.002, F.A.C.

Do I need a freshwater or saltwater fishing license or both?--Answer: In general, you need a freshwater license to take freshwater fish and a saltwater license to take saltwater fish, unless one of the exemptions specified on this Web site applies to your situation. Obviously if you are fishing in pure fresh water where no saltwater species live, you need a freshwater license and likewise if you are fishing in the ocean you need a saltwater license.

However, when you get into estuarine type areas where salt and fresh water commingle and fish of both types can be found the issue becomes less clear. The interpretation of the rule is:

You need either a freshwater, saltwater or combination license (or appropriate exemption) to take fish (take is legally defined as taking, attempting to take, pursuing, molesting, capturing, or killing any fish, or their nests or eggs by any means whether or not such actions result in obtaining possession of such fish or their nests or eggs).

If you are using species specific gear, your license should be appropriate (e.g., freshwater or saltwater) to the species you are targeting, and

Otherwise you need an appropriate type license to keep your catch and must immediately release any species for which you are not licensed. License requirements follow the species of fish, regardless of where they are caught. In other words, if you only have a freshwater license and are primarily fishing for largemouth bass or bream (freshwater species) in a river, but happen to catch a red drum (a saltwater species), you must immediately release the red drum.

Does everyone on board a recreational fishing boat need a license? No. Anyone onboard that is not fishing does not need a fishing license - even if they are on a vessel which has people fishing. However, you should not be surprised if an officer asks a few questions to ensure the people who are fishing are in fact properly licensed. The officer may have more questions should there, for instance, be more fishing lines in the water than there are licensed (or legally exempt) anglers. Also remember you may only keep the daily bag limit (of species with bag limits) for those persons with a current license (or who are legally exempt), and they catch their own limits (limits are not shared). Also non-anglers should not in any way help with fishing, such as attaching lures, netting fish or removing fish from the hooks.

What does a senior license certificate cover and where do I get it?--Answer: A resident permanent senior license for those 65 years old and older, authorizes the holder to take or attempt to take or possess freshwater fish and game consistent with state and federal regulations and the rules of the Commission at the time of taking. The holder of this license may engage in all activities authorized by a management area permit, a muzzle-loading gun permit, a turkey permit, an archery permit, and a Florida waterfowl permit.

These licenses should be issued by the Tax Collector's offices only. Please note that although these exemptions apply, individuals may always choose to purchase a license as a way to contribute to fish and wildlife conservation (see ad). Purchasing a license also helps the FWC receive more of the excise taxes spent on fishing tackle and motor boat fuels under Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration.

What does a youth need to do to fish legally?--Answer: Youth under the age of 16 do not need a fishing license, although they must abide by all other fishing regulations such as gear type, bag and size limits. They may, however, be asked to provide proof of age.

How do I get a replacement license?--Answer: A replacement license or permit may be obtained at any location that sells hunting and fishing licenses and permits, including on line.

What is the penalty for fishing without a license, keeping too many fish or illegal sized fish?--Answer: Florida Statute 372.83 identifies when noncriminal infractions; criminal penalties; suspension or revocation of licenses and permits occurs with regard to fishing violations. Florida Statute 775.082 or s. 775.083, outline the range of penalties. There are four levels of violation:

Level 1 (noncriminal infractions) involve motor size issues not having a fishing license or violations related to fish that do not directly impact natural resources. Conviction results in a $50 fine plus court costs and the cost of the license (a second violation is a mandatory $100 fine). Failure to pay a noncriminal penalty (similar to a traffic ticket) within 30 days also escalates the charge to a second degree misdemeanor.

Level 2 violations result in a second degree misdemeanor and are criminal acts that typically involve taking fish it is illegal to take, fishing in areas that are closed, using illegal gear or counting violations (more than the bag limit). This is punishable by up to $500 and/or 60 days imprisonment at the discretion of the court. A second violation becomes a minimum $250 mandatory fine and up to a year in jail. Subsequent, convictions become progressively steeper.

Level 3 are serious violations such as possession of commercial quantities of fish or fishing with a revoked/suspended license and result in a first degree misdemeanor that upon conviction leads to a fine of up to $1,000 and up to a year in prison. Subsequent convictions again result in mandatory and escalating penalties.

Level 4 are third degree felonies resulting from possession of forged licenses, molesting commercial fishing gear, or illegal sale of fish. A $5,000 fine and up to five years in jail can result from the first conviction.

Moreover, the FWC has now joined into a pact with other states to share information on fishing/hunting license violations and revocations.