NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

June 18, 1998

CONTACT: Jerry Krummrich (904) 758-0525

NEW FISH MANAGEMENT AREA REGULATIONS FOR LOW BUSH BAY

Anglers fishing Low Bush Bay FMA will see two new rule changes take effect July 1, 1998 according to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The first increases the daily bag limit of black crappie (speckled perch) to 25 per person. This makes the lakes crappie regulation uniform with statewide limits. However, the 12-inch minimum size will still be in effect.

"Documented growth rates are so impressive in this shad-filled, fertile lake that we still expect plenty of fish to reach 12-inches and be available for anglers to harvest," said Jerry Krummrich, regional fisheries administrator for the FWC. The eight-inch minimum size and 20 fish per day special rules for bluegill and redear (shellcracker) will remain the same.

Additionally, at the request of the landowner the area will be closed to night fishing. Fishing will be permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. "Except during these times, the gates will be locked," said Krummrich.