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Recognition Programs |
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) acknowledges the achievements of outstanding anglers, hunters and birders with several recognition awards. The Big Catch program presents a full-color, personalized certificate to anglers who catch fish that exceed the minimum qualifying weights and lengths. The Grand Slam Club celebrates the variety of Florida game fishes and the achievement of anglers catching a set of three species in one day. FWC celebrates anglers who handle their fish properly with the Saltwater Ethical Angler Photo Contest. All of these programs encourage catch and release. Hunter recognition programs include The Florida Buck Registry, which provides hunters with a record of the number and quality of white-tailed deer taken in Florida, and the Outstanding Gobbler Certificate from the FWC's Wild Turkey Registry. State records are kept for freshwater fish, marine fish, deer and turkey. Wings Over Florida is a free awards program that encourages Florida birders to sharpen their skills by identifying as many birds as they can within the state. Saltwater FishingThe FWC invites you to participate in the Saltwater Ethical Angler Photo Contest. Send us a picture of you with your catch and you may be featured in an upcoming FWC publication, maybe even the cover of the Saltwater Edition of the Fishing Regulations! The purpose of this program is to encourage anglers to apply less pressure on a single species of fish by providing an angler recognition certificate for catching, or catching and releasing, a set of three specified species in a single day. This provides a challenge for the angler and helps to conserve the fisheries. A partnership was developed with the International Game Fish Association to lend the program credibility and increase participation by utilizing IGFA's extensive membership base. This program is funded through USFWS Sport Fish Restoration Grant. The saltwater records program recognizes anglers who catch or catch and release three specified fish species in a single day. Download the Florida Saltwater Grand Slam Application to apply. Saltwater Florida Fishing Records This program is conducted in collaboration with the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). State all-tackle records for the heaviest fishes caught in Florida waters are maintained for over 73 marine species in both conventional tackle and fly fishing categories. Catches must be made according to IGFA angling rules, available from IGFA, 300 Gulf Stream Way, Dania Beach, FL 33004 for $1 postage and handling charges. The angler's signature on a completed application form must be witnessed by a notary. The application must be accompanied by line or tippet samples and photographs as specified in the IGFA world record requirements. Species which pose a problem of identity require determination by an ichthyologist or qualified fishery biologist. Visit the International Game Fish Association Website to learn more. Freshwater FishingFreshwater Big Catch Angler Recognition Program--To help commemorate your outstanding catches, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will send you a full-color certificate illustrating the species of fish you caught, personalized with your name and details about your catch. In addition, you will receive a colorful angler recognition decal for your car or boat. Although it is not required, we encourage catch-and-release, so we're making it easier than ever to participate. Freshwater Fishing Records Program--Certified state record fish must be legally caught using an active hook-and-line method (including a proper license or exemption) by sport fishing methods, identified by a Commission biologist and weighed on a certified scale. HuntingWildlife Viewing |
Our mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.
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