NEWS RELEASE

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

February 12, 1998

CONTACT: Bob Wattendorf (850) 488-0520

GFC WEB SITE PROVIDES WEALTH OF FISHING INFO

Looking for a place to fish, the latest fishing forecasts, a place to launch a boat or fishing laws? This information and more is on the Division of Freshwater Fisheries portion of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) Web site at http://www.state.fl.us/FWC/fishing.

The web site features a wide variety of information that's useful to anglers, boaters and the general public.

Here's a summary of some of the information available at the site:

• Fishing Rules -- An up-to-date version of FWC's fishing regulations summary with all of the changes that have taken place since June 1997, annotated with links to show what various fish look like.
• Fish Facts -- Detailed information about the 33 species of freshwater fish most commonly caught by anglers with information on fish identification, life history and tips for anglers. There is also a complete listing of other freshwater fish, most with photographs, and data about fisheries habitat and its status.
• Fishing Sites/Forecasts -- Describes many of Florida's most popular fishing areas and quarterly fishing forecasts.
• Fishing Licenses -- Details about what types of licenses are available and who needs them and how to obtain licenses via the telephone.
• Fishing Links -- A great place to start making travel plans for your next Florida fishing trip. Links lead to travel agencies, fishing guides, weather sites and map-routing options. You also can also get information from other governments agencies, non-profit and commercial groups involved with fishing. There are many educational sites as well.
• Fishing Reports -- Provides a way to see some of the division's most popular publications online or print your own copy.
• Fishing Updates -- Brief articles providing updates on fisheries programs and fishing opportunities. It features a new articles each month.
• Big Catch/State Records -- Lists all of Florida's current state record fish and provides information on a free angler recognition program.
• Fishing News -- All of the division's statewide and regional news releases. Annotated with additional links.
• Boat Ramps -- Descriptions and detailed directions to more than 200 FWC boat ramps and boating safety tips.