Overview
Most finfish size limit regulations of the Florida
Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) use either Fork
Length or Total Length.
These measurement methods provide a consistent,
well defined measurement technique. These methods encourage angler
compliance with fishery management regulations.
I want to measure...
Total Length
Fork Length
Lower Jaw Fork Length
Stone Crab
Spiny Lobster
Total Length Measurement
Total Length is now measured from the most forward
point of the head, with the mouth closed, to the farthest tip
of the tail with the tail compressed or squeezed, while the fish is
lying on its side.
|
Total Length Species Include:
|
| Snapper Family |
Tripletail |
| Grouper Family |
Bonefish |
| Red Drum |
Sheepshead |
| Black Drum |
Flounder |
| Snook |
Several ornamentals |
| Spotted Seatrout |
(Angelfish, etc.) |
| Weakfish |
Fork Length Measurement
Fish regulated by fork length are measured from the
tip of the jaw or tip of the snout with closed mouth to the center
of the fork in the tail.
|
Fork Length Species Include:
|
| Amberjacks |
Bluefish |
| Rudderfish |
King Mackerel |
| Hog Fish |
Spanish Mackerel |
| Dolphin |
Permit |
| Cobia |
Pompano |
| Mullet |
African Pompano |
Lower Jaw Fork Length
Measurement (Billfishes)
Fish regulated by lower jaw fork length are
measured in a straight line from the anterior most part of the
lower jaw (tip of the lower jaw) to the fork in the tail.
|
Lower Jaw Fork Length Species
Include:
|
| Sailfish |
Blue Marlin |
| White Marlin |
How to Measure Stone Crab and Spiny Lobster
Stone Crab
Measurement
Stone Crab claws must measure at least 2 3/4-inches
in length measured by a straight line from the elbow to the tip of
the lower immovable finger. The forearm (propodus) shall be deemed
to be the largest section of the claw assembly that has both a
moveable and immovable finger and is located farthest from the body
of the crab.
Spiny Lobster
Measurement
Spiny Lobster must have a minimum carapace length
of greater than 3-inches and the measurement must take place in the
water. The carapace is measured beginning at the forward edge
between the rostral horns, excluding any soft tissue, and
proceeding along the middle to the rear edge of the carapace.
For more information please visit the Fish Length Measurement
FAQs.
Persons with Disabilities