Freshwater Commercial Fishing Regulations Update
The Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management is conducting a review of commercial freshwater fishing regulations to identify language and processes that need to be clarified, updated or removed. The initial review will focus on catch data reporting and food fish quality control. This Summary and FAQ document outlines the proposed changes.
Currently most freshwater commercial fishing license holders are not required to report on their catches or take specific action to preserve catches they intend to sell for human consumption. In order to create a standardized commercial freshwater, catch reporting process the FWC is proposing rule changes to modernize our freshwater commercial regulations by requiring all freshwater commercial fishing license holders to submit online catch reports through a web-based trip ticket system. Providing the public clean, fresh fish suitable for human consumption is critically important. To help ensure safety and freshness the FWC is proposing implementation of specific guidelines to protect and preserve catches intended to be sold for human consumption.
Public Commenting
In order to better inform the rule making process, the FWC is seeking input from the public regarding these proposed changes through a series of in-person public meetings scheduled at different locations around the state.
If you would like to participate in these discussion and provide in person input, please join us at one of the meetings listed below. Please RSVP with your desired location via email to Shelby.McCarty@MyFWC.com.
| Location | Address | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Okeechobee Civic Center | 1750 US-98, Okeechobee, FL 34972 | 02/24/2026 | 6:00-7:30 PM |
| Tenoroc Hunter Education Room | 3755 Tenoroc Mine Rd, Lakeland, FL 33805 | 02/25/2026 | 6:00-7:30 PM |
| St. Johns Water Management District HQ | 4049 Reid St, Palatka, FL 32177 | 02/26/2026 | 6:00-7:30 PM |
| Defuniak Springs Community Center | 361 N 10th St, Defuniak Springs, FL 32433 | 03/03/2026 | 6:00-7:30 PM |
Additional Ways to Provide Comments
Comments on the proposed freshwater commercial rule changes can also be submitted through an online survey until April 3rd, 2026. Comments provided in advance of the scheduled meeting will help inform discussion at the meetings. All responses submitted through this survey will be reviewed by staff as we move through the public comment period.
Questions or comments regarding the proposed freshwater commercial rule changes may also be submitted via email at Shelby.McCarty@MyFWC.com or by phone at 850-617-9561. These venues are for providing comments on the proposed rule changes only.
Please direct all other questions to 850-488-4676.