General Statewide Freshwater Fishing Regulations Pages 12–14

FLORIDA freshwater 2013

Valid from July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014

General Statewide Freshwater Fishing Regulations pages 12–14

Florida Fish and Wildlife SM Donate to our youth Conservation Commission your license. programsHelp when us Create you buythe MyFWC.com/Fishing Nextthat Generation Cares!

MyFWC.com/YOUTH Contents

Web Site: MyFWC.com Visit MyFWC.com/Fishing for up- to-date information on fishing, boating and how to help ensure safe, sustainable fisheries for the future.

Fish and wildlife alert Photo courtesy of GlenLau.com reward program Report fishing, boating or hunting Commissioners’ Message...... 4 General regulations for fish management areas ...... 21 law violations by calling toll-free New Rules...... 4 1-888-404-FWCC (3922); on Specific fish management cell phones, dial *FWC or #FWC Introduction...... 6 area regulations...... 21–28 depending on service carrier; report FWC contact information & regional map Northwest Region violations online at MyFWC.com/Law North Central Region or text: [email protected]. Fishing license requirements & fees...... 8 Northeast Region Resident fishing licenses Southwest Region Nonresident fishing licenses South Region Lifetime and 5-year licenses Creating the Next Generation Freshwater fishing tips that Cares...... 24 Instant from the pros...... 10-11 Federal Aid in Sport Fish license privileges Freshwater license exemptions...... 12 Restoration (SFR)...... 26 Obtain license privileges, 24 hours Methods of taking freshwater fish...... 12 Angler Recognition Programs...... 29 a day, via License.MyFWC.com or by TrophyCatch Game & nongame freshwater fish...... 12 calling toll-free 1-888-FISHFLORIDA Big Catch (1-888-347-4356). Processing fees will Prohibited gear for taking State Records apply on sales via telephone marine fish in fresh water...... 12 and Internet. A unique license Fish consumption advisory...... 30 number allows you to begin fishing Methods of taking bait ...... 12 Florida safe eating guidelines immediately after the transaction. Release and movement of fish ...... 13 Frequently answered questions...... 32

Use of fish for bait ...... 13

Taking mussels & clams...... 13 Stop the spread of Special regulations for non-native species triploid grass carp, alligator gar, Atlantic, Gulf and shortnose sturgeon.....13 It is illegal to release any non- native fish or any other non-native Statewide bag & length limits...... 14 organism into the waters of How to measure your catch the state. To find out more visit MyFWC.com/WildlifeHabitats. Special bag & length limits...... 14 Fish identification chart...... 16–17

Black Bass Plan update...... 18 From FWC

Black bass fishing zones...... 20 On the cover Louie Echols, with a nice largemouth FREE Florida Wildlife bass, is a role model for Florida youth magazine — online For the that want to lead healthy lifestyles Articles and tips for anglers, hunters latest rules, and get outdoors. He is an avid angler and other outdoor enthusiasts. always visit: and steward of the resource. Besides Visit FloridaWildlifeMagazine.com FLrules.org. being a Trophy Club member, he is an to subscribe to the new electronic FWC rules Elite Angler, and a Bass Specialist. publication. are in Learn about FWC angler recognition chapter 68. programs on page 29.

2 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission FLORIDA FRESHWATER 2013

Valid from July 1, 2013 Commissioners’ to June 30, 2014

Message General Statewide Freshwater Fishing Regulations pages 12–14

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

MyFWC.com/Fishing FWC expands effort to ensure SM Donateyour to our license. youth programsHelp when us Create you thebuy Nextthat Generation Cares! Florida is the undisputed MyFWC.com/YOUTH ‘Bass Fishing Capital of the World’ The seven-member Florida Fish and Wildlife About this Guide Conservation Commission (FWC) is appointed to This high-quality regulation guide is offered to staggered terms by the governor and meets five times a year to hear staff reports, consider rule you by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation proposals, and conduct other Commission business. Commission’s Division of Freshwater Fisheries Under Florida’s Constitution, we enact rules and Bob Williams documented the first Management through its unique partnership with regulations regarding the state’s fish and wildlife TrophyCatch Hall of Fame bass, with this J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC. 13 lb., 14 oz. largemouth successfully resources and help staff achieve their mission of J.F. Griffin is an award-winning publishing house managing fish and wildlife resources for their long- caught and released on Rodman Reservoir. Photo by guide Sean Rush. that specializes in producing state fish & wildlife term well-being and the benefit of people. regulation books. J.F. Griffin supports the FWC staff According to the latest National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated in the design, layout and editing of the guides. It also Recreation (2011), Florida continues to provide more hours of recreational freshwater fish- manages the marketing and sales of advertising to ing enjoyment than any other state (25.7 million; Texas, the next highest, had 22.6 million). appropriate businesses within the book. Overall (freshwater and saltwater), Florida ranked No. 1 with 3.1 million anglers (No. 2 New York had 1.9 million), and total expenditures of $5 billion (No. 2 New York spent $2.7 billion). The revenue generated through ad sales significantly Florida’s role as the fishing destination for travelers was also overwhelmingly reaffirmed, with lowers production costs and generates savings. 1.2 million nonresident anglers visiting the state (No. 2 Michigan had 347,000). The ripple ef- These savings translate into additional funds for fect of these dollars was an $8.7 billion economic impact that supported 80,211 jobs in Florida. other important fisheries and habitat programs. Promotional advertisement does not constitute During 2012–13, FWC staff in the Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management have endorsement by FWC. moved forward aggressively to implement the Florida Black Bass Management Plan (BBMP), which we approved following scientific review and citizen input. As you’ve seen, Florida already If you have any feedback or are interested in is the “Fishing Capital of the World.” Now, we look forward to working with stakeholders advertising, please contact us at 413.884.1001 to document that Florida is also the undisputed “Bass Fishing Capital of the World.” The or online at www.JFGriffin.com BBMP identified four main areas of focus: New Opportunities, Habitat Management, Fish Management and People Management. Progress has been made in each area. You can learn Graphic Design: more details on the MyFWC.com/Fishing website (select Black Bass Management, or Fish Jon Gulley, Erin Murphy, Evelyn Haddad, Busters’ Bulletins to learn more), and be sure to read the article on Page 18. Chris Sobolowski, Dane Fay

You can learn more not only about mandatory freshwater fishing regulations in this J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC is proud to print the publication but also about our management philosophies, funding for conservation (largely official Florida Freshwater Fishing Regulations through fishing license sales and grants from the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration summary on post-consumer recycled paper. program), angler recognition programs and fishing tips.

A crucial new program that benefits the resource, you the user and the economy is TrophyCatch. This angler conservation/reward program rewards anglers for recycling bass heavier than 8 pounds, after properly documenting their catch and release. Visit TrophyCatchFlorida.com 430 Main St. Suite 5 | Williamstown, MA 01267 and see Page 29 for more details on this and other angler recognition programs.

Freshwater Rule Changes Effective July 1, 2013 available online • TrophyCatch is the FWC’s new incentive-based program to document in a new Digital Edition! catch and release of large bass. A new rule allows participating anglers to temporarily possess one bass 13 pounds or greater, over legal length and Fully searchable bag limits, while awaiting FWC staff certification. The fish must be kept Live hyperlinks to alive until certified and then released in the water body where caught. expanded content • Baymeadows Fish Management Area, Duval County, is a newly established Email pages Fish Management Area (25 acres). See Page 22 for detailed rules. One-click printing • The recreational fishing boundary for Lake Okeechobee was amended Mobile friendly to include two canals and one creek connected to Lake Okeechobee. See Page 14 for detailed rules. eRegulations.com/FL/fishing/freshwater • Edward Medard Park Reservoir Fish Management Area, Hillsborough County is a newly established Fish Management Area (770 acres). See Page 25 for detailed rules.

4 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission introduction

This free booklet is your guide to Florida’s the monies returned to the states for fish healthy lifestyle. Moreover, it is the No. 1 freshwater fishing laws and regulations. The restoration projects. The “Wallop-Breaux” gateway activity to get youth connected to Florida Wildlife Code is the final authority on amendment in 1984 added import duties on nature in active outdoor recreation, which can fishing laws (www.FLrules.org). The Florida sport fishing equipment, pleasure boats and reduce obesity, improve grades and, most of Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission yachts as well as taxes on motorboat fuels. The all, add enjoyment to their lives. (FWC) strives to ensure this information is result is one of the most successful “user-pays, The FWC is working hard to ensure safe accurate but assumes no liability for errors public-benefits” programs in the world, with and sustainable recreational fishing for all that may occur. In addition, rules can change taxes from the sale of outdoor recreation sup- of our citizens and guests and depends on between publications. Contact the FWC if plies enhancing and promoting the resource. your license fees to make sure there are fish you have questions not adequately covered in The amount of money Florida receives from for tomorrow. this booklet; see contact list and map below. SFR is based on the size of the state and This publication is valid from July 1, 2013, the number of paid licensed anglers – not to June 30, 2014. licenses and permits, but the people who hold Florida remains the “Fishing Capital of the them. For instance, an angler with freshwater World,” due to great resources and responsible and saltwater licenses and a snook permit management. We consider the quality of life counts as one holder. Each certified holder that is associated with recreational activities (1.46 million) generated $8.01 more for sport- and living in a healthy environment to be ex- fish restoration, providing $11.7 million for tremely important to Floridians and visitors Florida in 2012. and are also striving to make Florida the un- Of those monies, 15 percent went to boating disputed “Bass Fishing Capital of the World.” access — building and repairing ramps and The FWC uses the best scientific manage- courtesy docks. The remainder went to fresh ment possible to help fulfill its mission of and saltwater fisheries conservation projects “Managing fish and wildlife resources for such as habitat restoration, fish stocking, ar- their long-term well-being and the benefit of tificial reefs construction and youth fishing people.” To fund those efforts, the Legislature clinics. sets fishing license fees and exemptions, as The FWC encourages all anglers to buy a well as penalties for violating fish and wildlife license (License.MyFWC.com). Even if you conservation laws. State law guarantees are legally exempt, you can contribute to the money from the sale of fishing licenses future of our fisheries resources by buying a goes to the FWC and cannot be diverted. license and helping the FWC keep your federal In 1950, Congressmen Dingell and John- tax dollars in Florida to support sportfish son, at the request of anglers and the fishing restoration. industry, created the Federal Aid in Sport Recreational fishing often is portrayed in Fish Restoration (SFR) program, wherein advertising because it is an enjoyable, whole- fishing tackle was assessed an excise fee and some experience that reflects a happy and

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission NORTHWEST 620 South Meridian Street Farris Bryant Building Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 (850) 488-4676

(800) 955-8771 TDD NORTHEAST Commissioners Kenneth W. Wright NORTH CENTRAL Chairman, Winter Park Richard A Corbett Vice Chairman, Tampa FWC regional offices Ronald M. Bergeron Northwest Region Ft. Lauderdale 3911 Highway 2321 Panama City, FL 32409-1658 Aliese P. “Liesa” Priddy 850-265-3676 Immokalee Adrien “Bo” Rivard North Central Region Panama City 3377 East U.S. Highway 90 Lake City, FL 32055-8795 Charles W. Roberts III 386-758-0525 SOUTHWEST Tallahassee Brian S. Yablonski Northeast Region Tallahassee 1239 Southwest 10th Street Ocala, FL 34471-0323 Staff 352-732-1225 Nick Wiley Southwest Region Executive Director 3900 Drane Field Road Greg Holder Lakeland, FL 33811-1299 SOUTH Assistant Executive Director 863-648-3200 Karen Ventimiglia South Region Deputy Chief of Staff 8535 Northlake Boulevard Tom Champeau West Palm Beach, FL 33412-3303 Director, Freshwater Fisheries Management 561-625-5122

6 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Lsicen es

Fishing license requirements and fees License, permit, and issuance fees and exemptions are established by the Legislature. In addition to the cost of licenses and permits specified in this section, license agents currently charge a 50-cent issuance fee for selling licenses or permits. Licensing requirements follow the species of fish you are fishing for, regardless of where you are fishing. For example, anglers fishing for and possessing largemouth bass in brackish water need a freshwater license; anglers fishing for saltwater species in fresh water (e.g., spotted sea trout, red drum, snook, or American shad) need a saltwater license to possess these species. An exception is that when fishing in fresh water with a freshwater license (or legal exemption) you may take mullet without a saltwater license (seasons and sizes follow the saltwater fishing rules). See Page 12 for fishing license exemptions, but remember, anyone can buy a license to contribute to conservation. Resident Freshwater Fishing Licenses For purposes of fishing in Florida, a “resident” is defined as any person who has declared Florida as his or her only state of residence as evidenced by a valid Florida driver license or identification card with both a Florida address and a Florida residency verified by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (HSMV). If the person does not have a Florida driver license or identification card on record with HSMV, a Florida voter information card, declaration of domicile, or homestead exemption may be used as proof of Florida residency. Active military personnel stationed in Florida, including their spouses and dependent children residing in the household, are considered residents when purchasing fishing licenses. Freshwater Fishing (valid 12 months from specified start date) $17.00 Youth Freshwater Fishing (optional for children under the age of 16 and valid until 17th birthday — a fishing license is not required until age 16) $17.00 5-Year Freshwater Fishing Best $79.00 Buy (valid 5 years from specified start date) Freshwater/Saltwater Fishing Combo (valid 12 months from specified start date) $32.50 Freshwater Fishing/Hunting Combo (valid 12 months from specified start date) $32.50 Freshwater/Saltwater Fishing/Hunting Combo (valid 12 months from specified start date) $48.00 Resident 64 or Older Sportsman's License includes Freshwater Fishing and Hunting licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Deer, Turkey and Florida Waterfowl permits $13.50 (valid 12 months from specified start date) Sportsman's License includes Freshwater Fishing and Hunting licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Deer, Turkey and Florida Waterfowl permits $80.50 (valid 12 months from specified start date) Gold Sportsman's License includes Hunting, Saltwater Fishing and Freshwater Fishing licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Deer, Turkey, Florida Waterfowl, Snook and Lobster permits $100.00 (valid 12 months from specified start date) Youth Gold Sportsman’s License (optional for children under the age of 16 and valid until 17th birthday — a fishing license is not required until age 16 — hunter safety $100.00 certificate required — includes same licenses and permits as Gold Sportsman’s License) Military Gold Sportsman's License (sold only at tax collector's office — includes same licenses and permits as Gold Sportsman’s License) $20.00 (valid 12 months from specified start date) 5-Year Gold Sportsman’s License (includes Freshwater Fishing, Hunting and Saltwater Fishing licenses; and Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Muzzleloading Gun, $494.00 Crossbow, Deer, Turkey, Florida Waterfowl, Snook and Lobster permits) Nonresident Freshwater Fishing Licenses Freshwater Fishing (valid 12 months from specified start date) $47.00 3-Day Freshwater Fishing (valid 3 consecutive days from specified start date) $17.00 7-Day Freshwater Fishing (valid 7 consecutive days from specified start date) $30.00 Lifetime Licenses (for Florida residents only) Lifetime licenses are available to Florida residents only. Funds generated from sales of these licenses are invested, creating an endowment to support long-term conservation of Florida’s fish and wildlife resources. Costs of lifetime licenses are less than what would be spent on annual licenses, permits and fees, and are valid in Florida even if you move out of state. Lifetime license holders are also exempt from most recreational license or permits that may be created in the future. Lifetime Sportsman's License (includes Hunting, Freshwater Fishing and Saltwater Fishing licenses; Deer, Wildlife Management Area, Archery, Turkey, Muzzleloading Gun, Crossbow, Florida Waterfowl, Snook and Lobster permits) 4 years or younger $401.50 5-12 years $701.50 13 years and older $1,001.50 Lifetime Freshwater Fishing License 4 years or younger $126.50 5-12 years $226.50 13 years or older $301.50

8 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Tips from the Pros © Justinhoffmanoutdoors | Dreamstime.com © Justinhoffmanoutdoors Kayak Fishing Homer Circle— Terry Tomalin, Visit Florida & Fishing Insider; Outdoor Editor, ‘Don’t Ever Stop Fishing’ Tampa Bay Times (FishingCapital.com) Glen Lau,Bass Fishing Hall of Fame inductee, cinematographer and author (GlenLau.com) Florida is full of small lakes and ponds that just aren’t accessible by powerboat. You can walk the shoreline and cast for bass, but nothing beats that on-the-water vantage point for working weed Glen Lau’s Fishing Tribute to Uncle Homer: Homer Circle (1914– beds and drop-offs. That is where a kayak can come in handy. A 2012), best known to millions of anglers and readers as “Uncle decade ago, canoes outsold Kayaks at a rate of 5–1, but today, Homer,” was still fishing with me at 97. We met when I featured those numbers are reversed. These easily maneuverable boats him in the movie “Bigmouth” and developed a close friendship that are well suited for fresh water, for when it comes to stalking big included almost weekly fishing trips on our favorite Florida waters. bass you won’t find a quieter watercraft on earth. No man ever embodied the love of bass fishing more or provided Kayaks are relatively easy to paddle and steer. If you want to more tips to anglers then he did in his 36 years with Sports Afield reposition your fishing platform for that perfect cast, a few and penning BassMaster’s “Ask Uncle Homer” column. I took this flicks of the paddle will get you there. Kayaks are also light. photo of Uncle Homer with an 11 lb., 5 oz. trophy Florida largemouth The average plastic boat weighs between 50 and 80 pounds. just a few months before he passed on. Our last trip was just five The average person can put a kayak on the roof of a car without days before he died. We fished from 2 in the afternoon until 5, throwing out their back. With a kayak, there is no waiting in and he caught six and I caught five, which is just the way I like it. line at the boat ramp. Just pull your car alongside the road and So the tip I want to pass on from my fishing buddy is make time slide your kayak into the water. These boats are also virtually to fish and fish for a lifetime. I’ll close with his own special prayer: indestructible. Unlike a fiberglass hull, you don’t have to worry about running into tree stumps. They require virtually no main- The Fisherman’s Prayer tenance. If you are really picky, you might rinse it off with fresh by Homer Circle water after paddling. But that is about all it takes to keep one God grant that I may fish until my dying day; And when at last I come to rest, I’ll then most humbly pray; in shape. And when you look at the cost of a sea kayak vs. a When in His landing net I lie in final sleep; bass boat, there is no comparison. Most kayaks cost less than That in His mercy I’ll be judged as good enough to keep! $1,000, and kayaks hold their value. If you see a new model Amen. you like, trade-in for it. Most dealers sell used boats as well as new ones. And if that isn’t enough to get you in a kayak, think about the exercise factor. If you want a good workout, you’ll get it paddling a kayak. Who said fishing was a lazy man’s sport? Lunker Bass Sean Rush, Owner/Operator of Trophy Bass Expeditions of Central Florida (FloridaTrophyBass.com)

When I helped Bob Williams catch the first Hall of Fame bass inducted into the TrophyCatch program in February 2013, it was on Rodman Reservoir with a big wild shiner. I give my clients three important tips when fishing live shiners for trophy bass. First, it’s live bait so once you get it in position let it do the work, don’t reel it or drag it. Second, always leave the bail open, so the bass doesn’t feel the line. Give it 3–5 seconds to get the bait in position. Bass will often flip bait around in their mouth so they can swallow it head first. Finally, when you set the hook, set it hard. I use a 4/0 hook and 20-pound big-game line, with the hook below the lateral line near the bait’s tail. Remember, be ready to take a quick photo of the entire fish on a scale and tape measurer, so you can register your lunkers with TrophyCatch! (see video at YouTube.com/TrophyCatchFlorida.)

10 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission © Justinhoffmanoutdoors | Dreamstime.com © Justinhoffmanoutdoors

Peacock Bass Alan Zaremba, Owner/Operator of Worldwide Peacock Bass (FloridaPeacocks.com)

Peacock bass are special to me — I’ve been making a living by peacocks are often found deeper. guiding for them for more than 20 years — but trophy peacocks My best lures for trophy peacocks are even more extraordinary. Butterfly peacock bass are smaller are bucktail or Road-Runner jigs, 3 than largemouth bass, and each angler will have his or her own in ⁄8–½ oz. sizes. I prefer char- opinion, but for me any peacock over 4 pounds is a special treuse/white, red/white, or red/ fish — what I consider a “trophy,” and qualifies for the Big Catch yellow. You want to keep the jig angler recognition program (Page 29), moving with a bouncing motion on a tight line, and repeat until they Trophy peacocks can be caught year-round, but late February eat the jig. You have to find the through April is best when these fish start spawning and become fish to catch them — it’s all sight more territorial and more aggressive. This spawning period fishing — and I wear a quality pair begins first in the southern canals, and starts later — around of polarized sunglasses. The dif- late May — in the northern extent of the peacock’s range, like ference a good pair makes is Lakes Osborne and Ida. Of course, cold weather can delay or like night and day. disrupt this pattern. I strongly advocate catch-and-release during this time period — When the time is right, you’ll find trophy peacock bass over a hard released peacocks will return to where they were caught and surface such as submerged rock or concrete — in preparation for continue their spawning activity. These fish are special and spawning — the opposite of the soft, sand bottoms preferred by different, very much worth protecting, and Florida has a great largemouth bass. Like trophy largemouths, however, the bigger peacock fishery — thanks to the FWC.

Trophy Catch Terry Segraves, Tournament Pro, Guide and Kissimmee Tourism Spokesperson (ExperienceKissimmee.com)

“My Trophy Swims in Florida!” Some of the very best bass fishing waters are found in Osceola It’s official, I was able to register County, not only including famed lakes such as Kissimmee and a Lunker Club bass weighing Tohopekaliga, but also some small local lakes. 9 lbs., 4 oz. that I released during the FLW Tournament on Lake Doing your research before you go fishing can be a key to Okeechobee in February 2013. success. Check out the FWC’s Fishing Sites and Forecast page for quarterly updates on major resources and top lakes listed TrophyCatch is a great program by species, at MyFWC.com/Fishing. The site also provides sponsored by the Florida Fish numbers you can call to talk to local bait-and-tackle shops for and Wildlife Conservation up-to-the-minute fishing trends. Visiting TrophyCatchFlorida.com Commission (FWC) and funded (or the sister resources on YouTube and FaceBook) can help by numerous business partners. inform you on where the big ones are being caught right now. Among the most prominent of those is Experience Kissimmee, So do your research and then share your catch by posting your Big which is providing a $10,000 bonus for the biggest verified Catches and TrophyCatch releases at TrophyCatchFlorida.com. TrophyCatch bass from Osceola County and an additional $2,500 It’s fun getting recognized for a great catch, and even better to to a guide that helps a customer catch and release it. be rewarded for letting your trophy swim in Florida.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2013–2014 11 Me thods of taking fish

Game and nongame freshwater fish Game Fish: black bass, crappie, bluegill, License Exemptions: You do not need a freshwater fishing license if... redear sunfish, warmouth, redbreast sunfish, spotted sunfish, flier, mud sunfish, ■■ You are a child under 16 years of age. longear sunfish, shadow bass, peacock bass, ■■ You are a Florida resident age 65 or older possessing proof of age and residency, or possessing white bass, striped bass and sunshine bass. a Resident Senior Citizen Hunting and Fishing Certificate. Residents age 65 or older may obtain, at no cost, complimentary hunting and fishing certificates from county tax collectors’ offices. Nongame Fish: all freshwater fish are defined as nongame fish, except grass carp and ■■ You are a resident who is fishing with live or natural bait, using poles or lines that are not fish defined as freshwater game fish. Note: equipped with a fishing-line-retrieval mechanism, and you are fishing for noncommercial Alligator gar require a scientific collector’s purposes in your home county. However, you must have a valid fishing license to fish by any permit to take. method in a fish management area. This is often referred to as the cane-pole exemption. ■■ You freshwater fish in your county of residence on your homestead or the homestead of Methods of taking freshwater fish your spouse or minor child, or if you are a minor child hunting or freshwater fishing on the Game fish may only be taken with pole-and- homestead of your parent. line or rod-and-reel. There is no limit on the number of rods an angler may use. ■■ You are a Florida resident certified as totally and permanently disabled and you Freshwater fish may not be taken by use possess a Florida Resident Disabled Person Hunting and Fishing Certificate. of any free-floating, unattached device, or ■■ You are a resident who is a member of the Armed Forces of the United States, you are not by taking of fish or wildlife with firearms, stationed in this state, and you are home on leave for 30 days or less, upon submission of explosives, electricity, spear gun, poison or orders. other chemicals. The taking of fish by under- ■■ You have been accepted as a client for developmental disabilities services by the Agency for water swimming or diving is prohibited. It is Persons with Disabilities. The agency must furnish proof to such clients. unlawful to sell, offer for sale or transport out of the state any freshwater game fish unless ■■ You are fishing in a fish pond of 20 acres or less that is located entirely within the private specifically permitted by the FWC, except that property of its owner. A fish pond is a man-made pond constructed for the primary licensed anglers may transport two days’ bag purpose of fishing, entirely within the property lines of the owner and with no surface water limit of legally harvested game fish. connection to public waters. It is illegal to possess any freshwater fish ■■ You are fishing in a fish pond of 20 acres or more, whose owner has purchased a fish pond along with gear that cannot legally be used license at a fee of $3 per surface acre. to take freshwater fish, including gear types listed above and below for taking nongame ■■ You possess a Resident Freshwater Commercial Fishing License. fish or bait. An exception is game fish may be ■■ You are fishing in the St. Mary’s River or Lake Seminole (but not including tributary creeks possessed together with cast nets having a in Florida) and have a valid Georgia fishing license. stretched mesh size not greater than 1 inch; ■■ You are freshwater fishing on License-Free Freshwater Fishing Days: first Saturday in April minnow dip nets not more than 4 feet in diam- (April 5, 2014) and the second Saturday in June (June 14, 2014). Please note, at the time eter; minnow seines having a stretched mesh we went to press, the Florida Legislature was considering extending these dates to include size not greater than 1 inch, a length not more Saturday and Sunday, check MyFWC.com for updates. than 20 feet and a depth not more than 4 feet; and minnow traps not more than 24 inches in length and 12 inches in diameter, with a fun- setlines and trotlines must be clearly and game fish. Contact the Northwest Regional nel entrance not more than 1 inch in spread. legibly marked with the harvester’s name office for details (Page 6). Black bass, striped bass and white bass and address while being used or possessed ■■ For personal use by any person possessing or their hybrids, peacock bass, or crappie in or upon the waters of the state. a valid freshwater fishing license by the use and panfish (for crappie and panfish, only ■■ At night by bow and arrow, and gigs. of not more than one slat basket or one wire in waters where minimum-length or slot-size ■■ During daylight hours by manually oper- trap, made as specified in Rule 68A-23.003, limits for these fish apply) may not be filleted, ated spears, gigs, snatch hooks, crossbow FAC, and used only in those waters where nor their head or tail fin removed, until you or bow and arrow from a boat or from shore use of wire traps or slat baskets is permit- are done fishing for the day. except at the spillways of the Eureka and ted for commercial purposes. Refer to the *NOTE: Statutory provisions (790.052(3), Rodman dams on the Oklawaha River or “Commercial Freshwater Fisheries Rules F.S.) made it lawful for persons to own, pos- on the spillway of the Jim Woodruff Dam and Regulation Summary.” Passive fishing sess, and lawfully use firearms and other on the Apalachicola River or in Dade Coun- gear such as slat baskets or wire baskets weapons, ammunition, and supplies for lawful ty canals south of the C-4 and east of the must be clearly and legibly marked with purposes including fishing, camping, or lawful L-31N and L-31W canals inclusively. the harvester’s name and address while hunting or going to or returning from a fish- ■■ By the use of cast nets in the South and being used or possessed in or upon waters ing, camping, or lawful hunting expedition. Northeast regions, in Citrus County, and of the state. Consequently, although firearms may not be in the Southwest Region, except that pos- used to take fish, they can be in possession of session or use of cast nets in waters adjoin- Prohibited gear for taking someone with legally taken fish. ing Saddle Creek Fish Management Area, marine species in freshwater Polk County, confined by Morgan Combee ■■ Spearfishing: Use of any hand or me- Nongame fish may be taken: Road, U.S. Highway 92 and Fish Hatchery chanically propelled, single or multi- ■■ With pole-and-line, or rod-and-reel, and Road are prohibited. pronged spear or lance, barbed or barbless, by bush hook, setline or trotline baited ■■ Using a bow and light at night. Night to harvest or attempt to harvest any ma- with cut bait or other substance; but not bowfishing tournaments do not require a rine species while diving in freshwater is including live game fish or any part of any permit in the Northwest Region. prohibited. game fish; bush hooks, setlines or trotlines ■■ By netting and impounding at night from ■■ Spearfishing for mullet in fresh water is (limited to 25 hooks total) are permitted for Sept. 1 to May 1 in specified waters of prohibited; however, gigging from above taking nongame fish for personal use, but Northwest Florida. Nets used to take non- water is permitted. only in those areas where trotlines may be game fish (typically suckers) in these speci- lawfully used in accordance with the Wild- fied waters must be less than 100 feet in Methods of taking bait life Code of the State of Florida. Refer to the length, have a minimum 3-inch stretched Freshwater shrimp and golden shiners of “Commercial Freshwater Fisheries Rules mesh and shall be continuously attended to any size, or other freshwater nongame fish, and Regulations Summary.” Bush hooks, ensure immediate release of any trapped including catfish, less than 8-inches total

12 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission length may be taken for bait by the follow- sunfish, flier, warmouth) or parts thereof ing methods, unless specifically prohibited: may be used as bait for sportfishing by the ■■ Cast nets having a stretched mesh size angler who caught them. Whole pickerel or not greater than 1 inch in fresh waters of bream or parts thereof may not be used as the state, unless specifically prohibited. bait for trotlines or bush hooks or any method ■■ Minnow dip nets not more than 4 feet in other than by rod and reel or pole and line. diameter. ■■ Panfish less than 4 inches in total length ■■ Minnow seines having a stretched mesh raised by a licensed aquaculture facility size not greater than 1 inch, a length not may be purchased and used for bait. more than 20 feet, and a depth not more than 4 feet. Release/Movement of fish ■■ Minnow traps not more than 24 inches in Non-native fishes, except for peacock bass and length and 12 inches in diameter, with a fun- triploid grass carp, must not be returned to the nel entrance not more than 1 inch in spread. water nor may they be used as live bait, and ■■ Any game fish taken by these methods should be consumed or disposed of properly. must be released immediately. Northern black bass (Micropterus salmoides ■■ Taking of bait for the purpose of sale re- salmoides) has been added to the conditional quires a commercial fishing license. non-native species list. Possession, importation into Florida, sale or transportation of any live Use of fish for bait specimens or eggs of this subspecies of black ■■ Black bass, peacock bass or any part there- bass is prohibited except by special permit from of may not be used as bait. the FWC. Hybrids of the northern black bass ■■ Live non-native fishes (including goldfish and Florida sub-species (Micropterus salmoides and carp) may not be used as bait, except salmoides x Micropterus salmoides floridanus) for variable platys and fathead minnows. are legal to possess in the Suwannee River ■■ Whole pickerel or panfish (e.g., bluegill, and its tributaries and north and west of the redear sunfish, redbreast sunfish, spotted Suwannee River.

Taking and possession of freshwater mussels Certain families of freshwater mussels may be col- Sizes indicated are average adult dimen- lected for personal use. The bag limit for freshwater sions for identification purposes only. mussels from these families is 10 per person (or 20 half shells). The possession limit is two days bag limit (see images to right and FAQ, Page 32). Mussels shall be taken by hand-picking only. Use of brailles, crowfoot bars, or other mechanical methods 3 inches 3½ inches is prohibited. Freshwater mussels, live or dead, may Florida Shiny Spike Paper Pondshell not be taken for later sale.

Other clams Species of freshwater mussels from other families, such as the Asian clam, have no bag or possession limits. 1½ inches

Protected Sturgeons The species of sturgeon found in Florida — Atlantic (Acipenser oxyrinchus), Gulf (A. o. desotoi), and shortnose sturgeons (Acipenser brevirostrum) – are protected both federally and in the state of Florida. No person shall take, federal or state permit or authorization. People possess or sell any sturgeon or parts thereof, or who inadvertently catch one must immediately their nests or eggs, except as allowed by specific release it alive back to the water.

It is illegal to possess grass carp or alligator gar without a permit.

Alligator gar are found only in the panhandle Triploid grass carp are used for aquatic rivers and grow to more than 120 pounds. vegetation control and may not be stocked or Their gator–like snout is distinct. Due to their harvested without a permit. limited numbers, harvest is restricted to indi- They grow to over 40 pounds. viduals with a valid scientific collector’s permit. Grass carp illustration by Ted Walke; Alligator gar by Duane Raver, Jr.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Beag & L ngth Limits

Statewide bag and length limits ■■ 2 Butterfly peacock bass, only one of which ■■ Lake Kerr, including Little Lake Kerr: Special bag and length limits apply to some may be 17 inches or longer in total length. Black bass caught from 15 to 24 inches in lakes, rivers (this page) and Fish Manage- total length must be released immediately. ■■ NOTES: It is illegal to possess grass carp ment Areas (Pages 21–28). Other fishes or alligator gar without a permit; these Black bass bag limit is three, of which only one may be 24 inches or longer in total length. considered to be nongame fishes have no bag fish must be released immediately (see or possession limits, except as noted in indi- Page 13). Black bass, striped bass and ■■ Wildcat Lake, Marion County (Ocala vidual Fish Management Area regulations. white bass or their hybrids, peacock bass, or National Forest): Black bass must be re- Possession limit is two days’ bag limit. It crappie and panfish (for crappie and panfish, leased immediately. is illegal to transport or possess more than only in waters where minimum-length or ■■ S t . Joh n s R iver Wat er M a n a ge m ent A r e a two days’ bag limit of fish per licensed angler slot-size limits for these fish apply) may not (Farm 13, including the Stick Marsh), without a commercial license. Exceptions are be filleted, nor their head or tail fin removed, Indian River and Brevard counties: fish legally acquired from aquaculturists (fish until you are done fishing for the day. farmers) for use in aquaria, for brood stock, Black bass must be released immediately. ■ Anglers participating in TrophyCatch, pond stocking or properly marked for the mar- ■ ■■ S.N. Knight Tract, Indian River County who are in compliance with TrophyCatch ket. No native freshwater fish or their eggs (locally known as Kenansville Lake): may be taken or possessed except as permitted rules and fish handling guidelines, may Black bass must be released immediately. by these rules nor shall anyone wantonly or be in temporary possession of one bass 13 willfully waste the same. pounds or greater over the legal length ■■ Lake Weohyakapka (Walk-in-Water), limit and bag limit while waiting for FWC Polk County: Black bass from 15 to 24 ■■ 5 Black bass (largemouth, Suwannee, staff certification. The fish must then be inches in total length must be released im- spotted, and shoal bass, individually or in live-released in the water body where it mediately. Black bass bag limit is three, total), only one of which may be 22 inches was caught. only one of which may be 24 inches in total or longer in total length. length or longer. – In south Florida (see Page 20 Special bag and length limits ■■ Lake Okeechobee: Black bass less than for map): only one bass may be 14 See Fish Management Area regulations for inches in total length or longer. 18 inches in total length must be released bag and length limits for lakes in the Fish immediately. Black bass bag limit is five, – South and east of the Suwannee River Management Area system (Pages 21–28). (see Page 20 for map): black bass only one of which may be 22 inches in total less than 14 inches in total length ■■ Jim Woodruff Reservoir, Lake Semi- length or longer. Crappie (speckled perch) must be released immediately. nole: 10 black bass, each must be at least 12 less than 10 inches in total length must be – In the Suwannee River (see Page inches or greater in total length; 15 striped released immediately. Lake Okeechobee, 20 for map), areas north and west bass, white bass and sunshine bass (individ- for purposes of these rules, is defined as of the Suwannee River, and in any ually or in total), of which no more than two any point lakeward of a boundary line tributary river, creek or stream of may be 22 inches or longer in total length; 30 delineated by the following points: the Suwannee River: black bass crappie (speckled perch), in total; 50 panfish • Intersection of St. Rd. 78 and U.S. 441 less than 12 inches in total length (does not include crappie); 15 pickerel (chain, • U.S. 441 SE to St. Rd. 5 (“80”) must be released immediately. grass and redfin). Possession limit is 50 fish • St. Rd. 5 (“80”) to St. Rd. 25 (U.S. 27) total, regardless of species. • St. Rd. 25 (U.S. 27) to St. Rd. 78 ■■ 50 Panfish including bluegill, redear sun- • St. Rd. 78 to U.S. 441 fish (shellcracker), flier, longear sunfish, ■■ St. Marys River and it tributaries: 10 Including: mud sunfish, shadow bass, spotted sunfish black bass, all of which must be at least • Harney Pond Canal (C-41) north of St. (stumpknocker), warmouth and redbreast 12 inches in total length; two striped bass, Rd. 78 to South Florida Water Mgmnt. sunfish, individually or in total. sunshine bass or white bass, both of which District (SFWMD) structure S-71 must be at least 22 inches in total length; ■■ 25 Crappie (speckled perch). • C-41-A Canal, southeast of S-84 30 crappie (speckled perch); 50 total pan- • Indian Prairie Canal (C-40) north of ■■ 20 Striped bass, white bass, and sunfish (does not include crappie); 15 pickerel St. Rd. 78 to SFWMD structure S-72 shine bass (individually or in total), of (chain, grass and redfin). • All of Taylor Creek and Nubbin Slough which only 6 may be 24 inches or longer ■■ Lake Talquin, Leon and Gadsden coun- in Okeechobee County in total length. ties: Black bass bag limit is five, only one • C-38/Kissimmee River south of SF- – In the Suwannee River, areas north of which may be 22 inches in total length WMD structure S-65E to St. Rd. 78 and west of the Suwannee River, and or longer. Black bass less than 18 inches • All of L-50 Canal in Glades County in any tributary, creek or stream of in total length and crappie less than 10 • Fisheating Creek to U. S. 27 the Suwannee River: the bag limit inches in total length must be released • All of Sportsman’s Canal (LD-3) in for striped bass is 3, each of which immediately. Glades County must be at least 18 inches in total length (20 fish combined bag limit). ■■ Lake Jackson, Leon County: Black bass ■■ Lake Trafford (Collier County): Black bag limit is five, only one of which may be bass less than 18 inches in total length 16 inches in total length or longer. Black must be released immediately. Black bass bass less than 16 inches in total length bag limit is five, only one of which may be must be released immediately. 22 inches in total length or longer.

How to measure your catch Measure Girth around the fattest part of the fish Total Length is the straight line distance from the most forward point of the head with the mouth closed to the farthest tip of the tail with the tail squeezed or compressed. Girth is the circumference around the fattest part of the fish. For a Total Length with mouth closed and tail squeezed together bass weight calculator based on length and girth visit MyFWC.com/Bass-Formula.

14 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Florida Freshwater Fish

Florida freshwater fishes are divided into game fish that have specific bag and length limits and may only be taken with pole-and-line or rod-and-reel, and nongame fish, which are all others. A license is required to take nongame fish, but additional gear types are allowed (see Page 12). Non-native fish are those that do not occur in Florida naturally; most should be harvested and never released. Exceptions are peacock bass, which is a game fish, and triploid grass carp, which are stocked for vegetation control (see Page 13). Where applicable, state record (SR) weights and the Big Catch (BC) qualifying length or weight for adults are provided. See Page 29 or MyFWC.com/BigCatch for more details including youth qualifying sizes, slams, specialist, master, elite angler and the new TrophyCatch angler recognition program.

Black Bass

Largemouth bass: Spotted bass: Shoal bass: Suwannee Bass: SR 17.27 lbs; BC 24"/8.0 lbs SR 3.75 lbs; BC 16"/2.0 lbs SR 8.75 lbs; BC 16"/2.0 lbs SR 3.89 lbs; BC 14"/1.5 lbs

Panfish Fish art by Duane Raver, Jr.; and Diane R. Peebles. Jr.; Fish art Duane Raver, by

Black crappie: Bluegill: Redear sunfish: SR 3.83 lbs; BC 14"/2.0 lbs SR 2.95 lbs; BC 10"/1.0 lb SR 4.86 lbs; BC 11"/1.25 lbs GAME FISH GAME

Flier: Redbreast sunfish: Warmouth: Spotted sunfish: SR 1.24 lbs; BC 8"/0.5 lb SR 2.08 lbs; BC 9"/0.5 lb SR 2.44 lbs; BC 9"/0.5 lb SR 0.83 lbs; BC 7"/0.5 lb

Temperate Bass Cichlid

Striped bass: White bass: Sunshine bass: Butterfly peacock bass: SR 42.25 lbs; BC 30"/12.0 lbs SR 4.69 lbs; BC 15"/2.5 lbs SR 16.31 lbs; BC 20"/5.0 lbs SR 9.08 lbs; BC 18"/4.0 lbs

Catfish

Channel catfish: White catfish: Yellow bullhead: Brown bullhead: SR 44.50 lbs; BC 25"/12.0 lbs SR 18.88 lbs; BC 22"/5.0 lbs SR 5.05 lbs; BC 14"/1.5 lbs SR 5.72 lbs; BC 16"/2.0 lbs

Bowfin, Shad, Pickerel & Gar

NONGAME FISH NONGAME Longnose gar: American shad: SR 41.00 lbs; BC 40"/15.0 lbs SR 5.19 lbs; BC 18"/3.0 lbs Bowfin: Chain pickerel: Florida/Spotted gar: SR 19.00 lbs; BC 28"/8.0 lbs SR 6.96 lbs; BC 22"/3.0 lbs SR 9.44 lbs; BC 28"/4.0 lbs

For details on state records and angler recognition programs visit: MyFWC.com/BigCatch

16 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Florida Freshwater Fish

Flathead catfish: Blue catfish: SR 55.05 lbs; BC 36"/25.0 lbs SR 64.50 lbs; BC 36"/25.0 lbs

Jaguar guapote: Mayan cichlid: Oscar: SR Open 2.5 lbs; BC 13"/1.5 lbs SR Open 2.5 lbs; BC 11"/1.0 lb SR 2.34 lbs; BC 11"/1.25 lbs NONNATIVE-NONGAME FISH NONNATIVE-NONGAME

Yellow perch: Common carp: Blue tilapia: SR 1.47 lbs; BC 12"/0.75 lb SR 40.56 lbs; BC 30"/20.0 lbs SR 9.38 lbs; BC 18"/5.0 lbs

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2013–2014 17 Black Bass Plan Update from FWC Bob Wattendorf, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Bass Tournaments Tournament permits annually allow clubs and organizations to possess bass outside legal size limits with the condition that all bass (even those that could normally be harvested) must be released. The FWC is strengthening partnerships with bass fishing organizations and local communi- ties to encourage large tournaments to come to Florida and to enhance facilities.

Lake Okeechobee Another objective was to work coopera- tively with other agencies to emphasize recreational fisheries. An example is Lake Okeechobee, where the coopera- tive efforts of local citizens groups, the South Florida Water Management Dis- trict, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the FWC got the Water Regulation Schedule changed to benefit lake ecology. Outstanding catch rates for bass and crappie are being reported.

Fisheries Regulations FWC biologists are seeking to use the least restrictive regulations possible to In June 2011, The Florida Fish and Wild- 3. Attracting events such as national protect trophy bass, while maintaining life Conservation Commission (FWC) professional bass fishing tournaments, a statewide bass fishery that provides approved the Black Bass Management which have huge economic impacts, to diverse angling opportunities, includ- Plan. It was the result of more than 7,500 smaller towns and cities as a result of ing controlled harvest and high angler anglers providing input to our scientists Florida’s enhanced reputation. satisfaction. University of Florida hu- followed by detailed discussions with a man dimensions experts are working to technical assistance group representing Here is a partial list of accomplishments. enhance the public input process, and a fishing-related businesses, university ex- (Also available at MyFWC.com/Fishing; series of townhall-type meetings was held perts, professional anglers, outdoor media click the Black Bass Management Plan to in spring 2013. Also, a survey was distrib- and fishing guides. Implementation of review the plan and, then look for “First- uted to anglers to obtain their opinions. the plan is expected to create significant Year Updates,” for more details.) ecological, economic and social benefits Shoal Bass for Florida in the long term but is already Bass Genetics The BBMP incorporates all four black producing remarkable results. The FWC stopped state-owned hatcheries bass species found in Florida. Shoal bass from stocking or relocating bass outside are a lesser known species that occur their native range. Genetic testing will The goal of the plan is to ensure in a limited range in the upper Chi- help ensure pure Florida populations will Florida is the Black Bass Fishing pola River. Recent research provides a be maintained. New rules regulate im- Capital of the World by: science-informed perspective to assess portation of non-native bass and prohibit 1. Ensuring healthy lakes and rivers to and manage this species. Results show anglers from moving bass around in ways benefit many species of fish and wild- a robust population of shoal bass. The that could hurt their genetic integrity or life, as well as trophy bass fisheries. Big Catch angler recognitions program move parasites and diseases. (see Page 29), added a new Bass Slam 2. Strengthening local economies by to encourage awareness of these other documenting and increasing econom- Hydrilla Management black bass species. ic benefits derived from bass fishing, The FWC Invasive Plant Management which provided more than 14 million Section implemented an agency position Lake Apopka days of quality outdoor recreation for statement to guide the agency in manag- To expedite restoration of Lake Apopka, bass anglers and generated an eco- ing hydrilla using a risk-based approach the Florida Legislature appropriated $4.8 nomic impact of $1.25 billion prior to that now incorporates public input into million in 2012. A multi-agency task implementing the plan. hydrilla management plans.

18 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission force identified five projects to restore High School Bass Fishing this valuable fishery. In the interim, the An example of current efforts to help re- FWC continues to stock the lake with cruit future anglers is FWC involvement non-reproducing sunshine bass to provide in laying the groundwork to incorporate a recreational fishery. bass fishing as a sanctioned sport in high schools. FWC is working with the FLW Bass Stocking and The Bass Federation, as well as the Stocking bass can effectively create new Florida Department of Education to in- fisheries and re-establish a fishery after crease competition between schools with a major fish kill. FWC hatchery staff bass fishing clubs. developed a new production technique to spawn bass out of season, so advanced- e-Tournaments fingerlings (4-inch) are ready to stock Biologists evaluated an alternative weigh- when more abundant prey are available. in procedure to reduce handling stress on Now FWC biologists are conducting a bass. Two experimental e-tournaments small-lake stocking study to determine were evaluated. Fish were weighed or survival of advanced-fingerling bass in measured on the boat, photographed 11 lakes throughout Florida. and then released. e-tournaments are a good choice for bass anglers wanting Trophy Tagging Study to hold tournaments during summer or FWC biologists tagged 136 trophy large- on waters where bass cannot be legally mouth bass greater than 8 pounds in kept. However, no plans to require such Florida’s public waters during the first tournaments are currently contemplated. tagging season. Results are very infor- mative and will help guide trophy bass The FWC will continue to update you as management planning in the future. If we strive to implement the BBMP and you catch any fish with a tag, cut the tag use TrophyCatch and other research close to the fish and call the Tag Hotline methods to evaluate our success. Please at 1-800-367-4461 or email tagreturn@ check our website, MyFWC.com/Fishing, MyFWC.com. sign up for newsletters, and follow us on FaceBook. TrophyCatch is especially TrophyCatch active and provides great insights into Providing greater opportunities for tro- when and where the best fishing is phy-size bass and promoting Florida’s (FaceBook.com/TrophyCatchFlorida and exceptional largemouth fishery was an YouTube.com/TrophyCatchFlorida). important component of the BBMP. TrophyCatch (TrophyCatchFlorida.com), launched in October 2012 and will help document that Florida is the “Bass Fish- ing Capital of the World,” while promoting catch-and-release of trophy bass. Register, legally catch an 8-pound-plus bass, document it according to the rules, and release it in Florida to claim great rewards and valuable prizes.

Fellsmere Water Management Area The Fellsmere project is an example of a new opportunity. This 10,000-acre par- cel of land in Indian River County was purchased by the St. Johns River Water Management District and is being con- verted into a reservoir. The FWC provided resources to enhance fish and wildlife habitat and to benefit fish and wildlife populations, anglers and wildlife viewers.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2013–2014 19 Freshwater

Black bass fishing zones

Note: These are general black bass fishing zones. See the Specific Fish Management Area, and Special Bag and Length Limit sections (Page 14) for more local rules, including details about Lake Okeechobee.

Northwest (Blue area. Waters north and west of the Suwannee River, including its tributaries). Make sure there are Black bass less than 12 inches total length must be fish for tomorrow released immediately. Black bass bag limit is five, only one of which may be 22 inches in total length or longer. Only half of Florida’s anglers are required to buy a license, but their license fees are a vital source of funding for fish and wildlife conservation. Seniors, youths and others who are exempt can contribute to fish and wildlife conservation simply by voluntarily buying a fishing license. License fees help with scientific management, habi- Central and Northeast tat restoration, fish stocking, fishing (White area) and boating access, law enforcement Black bass less than 14 inches and outreach programs. total length must be released Each license bought also captures immediately. Black bass bag more Federal Aid in Sportfish Restora- limit is five, only one of which tion money and brings tackle and motor may be 22 inches in total boat fuel taxes home to Florida. length or longer. The new youth license (Page 8) can be purchased for any age youth. It Lee is good until they are 17 years old and South (Green area) is a way for them to take pride in being In the St. Lucie canal, areas east of US an angler, learn about conservation Hwy. 441 and south of S.R. 80, only 1 and help Florida obtain more dollars for bass of the five bass daily bag limit may be 14 inches or longer. Sport Fish Restoration. In addition, when you buy your license, you may make a voluntary donation to youth fishing and hunting programs in Florida (License.MyFWC.com). Help Protect Report fishing, boating or hunting law violations.

Call 888-404-FWCC (3922); on cell phones, dial *FWC or #FWC; or at MyFWC.com/Law. Photo courtesy of: TakeMeFishing.org

20 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission FMA regulations

■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and ■■ Redear sunfish less than 10 inches in total fishing fingers. length must be released immediately. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. Merritt’s Mill Pond, Jackson County: open to fishing. ■■ The taking of fish and wildlife with rifles Hurricane Lake, Okaloosa County: open to fishing. is prohibited. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Gigs are prohibited. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Trotlines may be used. ■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and ■■ Redear sunfish (shellcracker) bag limit: 10 fishing fingers. (Continued on Page 22) Regulations for Fish Management Areas 1. A fishing license is required for residents from 16 to 64 years of age, and for non- residents 16 or more years of age, to fish by any method, including cane poles, on a Fish Management Area. Refer to Fishing License Fees for exemptions (Pages 8 and 12). 2. The possession of fishing tackle is prohibited on any Fish Management Area that is closed to fishing. 3. Bag limits and methods of taking freshwater fish apply except as provided for a particular Fish Management Area. 4. The possession of nets (other than legal minnow seines, cast nets or dip nets), fish traps, trotlines or setlines is prohibited unless specifically authorized by rules established for a particular Fish Manage- ment Area. 5. Persons entering or leaving Fish Manage- ment Areas that have designated entry points shall enter or leave only at such designated points. 6. Any vehicle, boat or other transportation device may be searched while in, entering or leaving a Fish Management Area. 7. Fish Management Areas may be temporarily closed to accommodate management projects (e.g., drawdowns), or if unsafe conditions exist, or as otherwise specified in a specific Fish Management Area rule. 8. Intentional release of wildlife or freshwater fish on Fish Management Areas is prohibited.

Northwest Region (see map on Page 6 for regions) Juniper Bay Lake, Walton County: open to fishing. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6

Lake Piney Z, Leon County: open to fishing. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife with firearms or possession of alcoholic beverages are prohibited. ■■ Watercraft shall be allowed only as authorized by the City of Tallahassee. ■■ Access is prohibited from sunset until sunrise. ■■ Use or possession of cast nets or minnow seines is prohibited. ■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and fishing fingers.

Lake Victor, Holmes County: open to fishing. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2013–2014 21 FMA regulations (Continued from Page 21)

Karick Lake, Okaloosa County: open to fishing. Hanna Park ponds, Duval County: open to fish- ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ing from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 length must be released immediately. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 minutes after sunset. ■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. Camp Blanding area, Clay County: Open to fish- fishing fingers. ■■ Taking of fish or wildlife with firearms or ing. Magnolia and Lowry Lakes will be open to possession of alcoholic beverages, and use fishing on days and times determined by Camp L ake Stone, Escambia County: open to fishing. of cast nets are prohibited. Blanding Post Commander. Openings may be ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 changed at discretion of Post Commander to ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 accommodate military training. All anglers ■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total will be required to check into and out of area fishing fingers. length must be released immediately. at a manned check station. ■■ Guns are prohibited for taking of fish or Bear Lake, Santa Rosa County: open to fishing. Pope Duval East and West ponds, Duval County: wildlife except during designated hunt- ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. open to fishing from 30 minutes before sunrise ing seasons for Camp Blanding Wildlife ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 until 30 minutes after sunset. Management Area. ■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Boat launching permitted only at desig- fishing fingers. ■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with nated areas. firearms or possession of alcoholic bever- ■■ Camping is prohibited. Joe Budd Pond, Gadsden County: Closed ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited. ■■ During periods closed to hunting, vehicles to fishing, except as authorized by permit ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 may be operated only on roads to designated for Commission-sanctioned events (see ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 access areas. MyFWC.com/Fishing for details). Open to fish- ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ■■ Use of all-terrain vehicles is prohibited. ing during daylight hours on Saturdays and length must be released immediately. ■■ All watercraft shall be operated at idle Sundays during July, August and September speed only. or as specified by order of the Executive Di- Bethesda Pond, Duval County: open to fish- ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 rector. ing from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 ■■ No motor vehicles on dams, spillways and minutes after sunset. Alligator Lake, Columbia County: open to fishing. fishing fingers. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Fishing is prohibited in Ponderosa Pond ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with except for authorized groups permitted by ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 firearms or possession of alcoholic bever- FWC. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 10 ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 E agle Lake, Hamilton County: open to fish- length must be released immediately. ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ing from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 length must be released immediately. minutes after sunset. North Central Region ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. (see map on Page 6 for regions) Huguenot Pond, Duval County: open to fish- ■■ Swimming and taking of fish or wildlife with S t. Augustine Road ponds (North and South), ing from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 firearms are prohibited. Duval County: open to fishing from 30 minutes minutes after sunset. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with R onnie Vanzant Park, Clay County: open to ■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with firearms or possession of alcoholic bever- fishing from 30 minutes before sunrise until firearms or possession of alcoholic beverages, and use of cast nets are prohibited. 30 minutes after sunset. ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Boats or any floating vessel apparatus are ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 prohibited. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ■■ No swimming or camping. ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total length must be released immediately. ■■ No person 16 years of age or older shall fish length must be released immediately. unless accompanied by an angler less than Crystal Springs Park, Duval County: open to 16 years of age. Baymeadows, Duval County: open to fishing fishing from 30 minutes before sunrise until ■■ Fishing permitted only with hook and line from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 min- 30 minutes after sunset. or rod and reel. utes after sunset. ■■ No person between the ages of 16 years ■■ Nets are prohibited, except for dip nets. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. and 64 years shall fish unless accompa- ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with nied by an angler less than 16 years of length must be released immediately. firearms, possession of alcoholic beverages age; by an angler 65 years of age or older; ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 or use of cast nets is prohibited. by angler who has been certified by the ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 U.S. Veterans Administration, U.S. Social ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Security Administration, by any branch of L ake Lochloosa, including Tadpole and Lochloosa ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total the U.S. Armed Services, or by a licensed creeks; Orange Lake, including Orange Lake length must be released immediately. physician in this State to be totally and proper, and waters south and east of CR 346, permanently disabled and has obtained a and west of U.S. Highway 301; and Cross Creek; O ceanway Pond, Duval County: open to fishing permanent license issued pursuant to Sec- Alachua and Marion counties: open to fishing. from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes tion 379.352(5), F.S.; or by an angler with ■■ Black bass 15 inches or more in total length after sunset. proof of acceptance as a client for develop- and less than 24 inches must be released ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. mental services by the Agency for Persons immediately. ■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with with Disabilities. ■■ Black bass bag limit: 3; of which only 1 may firearms or possession of alcoholic bever- ■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with be over 24 inches. ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited. firearms or possession of alcoholic bever- ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ages, and use of cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Boats are prohibited. ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 length must be released immediately. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6

22 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission FMA regulations

■■ Trotlines having a gallon-sized plastic float Montgomery Lake, Columbia County: open to ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length at each end may be used, provided that fishing. must be released immediately. such lines are sunk to the bottom or to a ■■ Boats are restricted to idle speed – no wake. ■■ Taking of fish or wildlife with firearms is minimum depth of 4 feet. ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total prohibited, except by written permission length must be released immediately. of the landowner. Newnans Lake, Alachua County: open to fishing. ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 ■■ Trotlines having a gallon-sized plastic float ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length Northeast Region at each end may be used, provided that must be released immediately. (see map on Page 6 for regions) such lines are sunk to the bottom or to a ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 East Lake Tohopekaliga, Osceola County: open minimum depth of 4 feet. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 to fishing. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. Watertown Lake, Columbia County: open to ■■ Minnow lift nets and trotlines may be used. Suwannee Lake, Suwannee County: open to fishing. fishing. ■■ Taking of fish or wildlife with firearms is Lake Jackson, Osceola County: open to fishing. ■■ No camping. prohibited. ■■ Cast nets, minnow lift nets and minnow ■■ No motor vehicles on dam and fishing fingers. ■■ Watercraft shall be operated only at idle seines are prohibited. ■■ Taking of fish or wildlife with firearms or speed before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. daily. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. possession of alcoholic beverages is pro- ■■ Black bass less than 16 inches in total ■■ Crappie less than 12 inches in total length hibited. length must be released immediately. must be released immediately. ■■ Access to the area from 30 minutes after ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise for ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length any use other than fishing and launching must be released immediately. Lake Marian, Osceola County: open to fishing. and loading of boats is prohibited. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Black bass less than 18 inches in total ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Minnow lift nets, fish traps and trotlines length must be released immediately. may be used. ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length Lang Lake, Hamilton County: open to fishing must be released immediately. from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 min- Lakes Tohopekaliga (West Lake Tohopekaliga), ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. utes after sunset. Cypress, Hatchineha, and Kissimmee, Osceola ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. and Polk counties: open to fishing. Koon Lake, Lafayette County: open to fishing. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Taking of fish or wildlife with firearms is ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Minnow lift nets, fish traps and trotlines prohibited. ■■ Black bass less than 18 inches in total may be used. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. length must be released immediately. (Continued on Page 24)

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2013–2014 23 FMA regulations (Continued from Page 23)

Lake Panasoffkee, Sumter County: open to fishing. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Channel catfish less than 30 inches in total ■■ Trotlines may be used. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 length must be released immediately. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately.

Chain of Lakes, Lake County (Cook, Winona, Lake Santiago in Demetree Park, Clear Lake, Orange County: open to fishing. Palatlakaha, Crescent, Louisa, Minnehaha, Hi- Orange County: open to fishing. ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife awatha, Minneola, Wilson, Susan and Cherry): ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife with firearms or possession of alcoholic open to fishing. with firearms or possession of alcoholic beverages are prohibited. ■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until beverages are prohibited. ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. 9 a.m. ■■ Boats are prohibited. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Lake Lawne, Orange County: open to fishing. Lake Griffin, Lake County: open to fishing. ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Trotlines are prohibited from 9 a.m. Friday with firearms or possession of alcoholic until one hour before sunset on Sunday. Hal-Scott Lake, Orange County: open to fishing. beverages are prohibited. ■■ Trotlines are also prohibited from 9 a.m. un- ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. til one hour before sunset Monday through with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Thursday from May 1 through Oct. 31. beverages are prohibited. ■■ No trotline may be secured to or fished ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. Starke Lake, Orange County: open to fishing. within 50 yards of a private pier or dock. ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Cast nets and minnow seines are prohibited. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Black crappie less than 10 inches in total ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 length must be released immediately. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. Turkey Lake, Orange County: open to fishing. ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife Pellicer Pond, Flagler County: open to fishing. Bear Creek Park, Orange County: open to fishing. with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife beverages are prohibited. with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. Lake Dias, Volusia County: open to fishing. beverages are prohibited. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. Fox Lake, Brevard County: open to fishing. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Except for sanctioned events, gasoline mo- ■■ No airboats for fishing or frogging. tors may not be used on boats. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. Shadow Bay Park, Orange County: open to fishing. ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife Lake Underhill, Orange County: open to fishing. South Lake, Brevard County: open to fishing. with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ No airboats for fishing or frogging. beverages are prohibited. with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Trotlines may be used. ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. beverages are prohibited. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Bluegill bag limit: 5 ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. ■■ Bluegill less than 12 inches in total length ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 Lake Ivanhoe, Orange County: open to fishing. must be released immediately. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 1 ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. with firearms or possession of alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is “Creating the Next Generation that CaresSM”

The FWC and its partners are creating the unending array of opportunities. You can also agencies have begun training health care next generation that cares about Florida’s volunteer or make a cash donation on the site professionals on the importance of active great outdoors, fish and wildlife and their to help further this important cause. nature-based recreation. They are even arm- habitats, while helping youth lead a happier, The Florida Youth Conservation Centers ing them with prescription pads. The recom- healthier and smarter lifestyle. Network is taking this effort to a new level by mended prescription – get outdoors and have Over the past decade, children have be- partnering with facilities around the state to fun. Fishing in particular is one of the least come increasingly engaged with television, provide camps and curricula that allow youth expensive, simplest and most accessible gate- computers and other entertainment media. to enjoy and learn about fishing, hunting, way activities to an active outdoor lifestyle. This lifestyle has resulted in higher rates shooting, paddling, boating, wildlife viewing Visit MyFWC.com/Youth to learn more of obesity, depression and other physical, and more. The focus for both groups is on safe about these programs and how you can par- psychological and emotional problems. A and sustainable nature-based activities that ticipate and contribute to Creating the Next growing body of evidence suggests that all can be enjoyed for a lifetime, while making Generation that Cares. these areas of a child’s life can improve by that lifetime longer and more enjoyable. encouraging them to connect with nature. The American Pediatrics Association rec- The Get Outdoors Florida! Coalition brings ommends that “parents become good role many partners together to show how easy it is models by increasing their own level of physi- to offset these trends, by getting kids outdoors. cal activity. Parents should also incorporate GetOutdoorsFlorida.org lists simple activi- physical activities that family members of ties and tips and provides a list of partners. all ages and abilities can do together. They The website also lists events and locations should encourage children to play outside as from around the state that take advantage much as possible.” The National Environ- of the Sunshine State’s climate to provide an mental Education Foundation and federal

24 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission FMA regulations

Secret Lake, Seminole County: open to fishing. ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 ■■ Black bass bag limit: 3 ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 with firearms or possession of alcoholic must be released immediately. beverages are prohibited. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 Lakes Tohopekaliga (West Lake Tohopekaliga), ■■ Personal watercraft are prohibited. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Cypress, Hatchineha, and Kissimmee), Polk and ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. Osceola counties: open to fishing. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 Gadsden Park Pond, Hillsborough County: open ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 to fishing. ■■ Minnow lift nets, fish traps and trotlines ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Cast nets and minnow seines are prohibited. may be used. ■■ Swimming and taking of fish or wildlife Lake Blue Cypress, Indian River County: open with firearms are prohibited. Manatee Lake, Manatee County: open to fishing. to fishing. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9 ■■ Trotlines may be used. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. a.m., Sunday through Thursday. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 ■■ Outboard motors more than 20 h.p. may ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length not be used. Southwest Region must be released immediately. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. (see map on Page 6 for regions) ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 Lake Tarpon, Pinellas County: open to fishing. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Edward Medard Park Reservoir, Hillsborough ■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9 County: open to fishing. a.m. Sunday through Thursday. Lake Thonotosassa, Hillsborough County: open ■■ Black bass bag limit 5, only one of which ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. to fishing. may be 16 inches in total length or longer. ■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9 ■■ No person shall use any gear other than Lake Seminole, Pinellas County: open to fishing. a.m. Sunday through Thursday. hook and line or rod and reel to take and ■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. possess game fish and nongame fish species. 9 a.m. ■■ Persons possessing a valid freshwater com- ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. Lake Parker, Polk County: open to fishing. mercial fishing license may use cast nets ■■ Wire traps may be used for nongame fish. to catch nongame fish other than channel Bobby Hicks Park Pond, Hillsborough County: ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. catfish from 12:01 AM Tuesday to 12:01 open to fishing. AM Friday. ■■ Cast nets and minnow seines are prohibited. Saddle Creek Park, Polk County: open to fishing. ■■ Days and hours of operation, park entrance ■■ Swimming and taking of fish or wildlife with ■■ Cast nets are prohibited. and other user fees shall be designated by firearms are prohibited. ■■ Black bass 15 inches or more in total length Hillsborough County and posted at the park ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. and less than 24 inches in total length must main entrance. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. be released immediately. (Continued on Page 26)

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2013–2014 25 FMA regulations (Continued from Page 25)

Webb Lake, Charlotte County: open to fishing the custodian unless otherwise instructed. ■■ Cast nets and minnow seines are prohibited. during posted hours. Permitted alligator hunt participants are ■■ No person shall have any gun under his/ ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. exempt from the requirement to enter at her control while under the influence of ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 designated points. alcohol or drugs. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Days and hours of operation and quotas ■■ Public access is prohibited in areas posted ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8 shall be as designated by the FWC and as “Restricted” for protection of threatened inches in total length must be released posted at area headquarters (currently Fri- or endangered species, or environmentally immediately. day through Monday only). Quotas will be sensitive areas. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. established for each lake, and fishing is per- ■■ Motor vehicles may be operated only on ■■ Vehicles may be used only on designated mitted in designated lakes only. Lakes may named roads, designated parking areas, roads. be closed to public access for management and fishing ramps as designated in the purposes or if access to the lake exposes area use brochure. Marl Pits 1 and 3, Charlotte County: open to the public to danger, by posting notice at ■■ Vehicles may not obstruct designated roads, fishing. the Tenoroc check station office. Quotas for boat ramps, gates or fire lanes. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 open lakes may be temporarily increased to ■■ Swimming and float tubes are prohibited. ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8 accommodate anglers during times when inches in total length must be released other lakes are closed due to management Regulations for Tenoroc lakes are as follows: immediately. construction projects, road repair, unsafe Lakes A, Butterfly, C, F, Fish Hook, G, Half-Moon, ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 access or special recreational events. Horseshoe, Hydrilla, Legs Lost, Lake East, Lost ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Discharge of firearms is limited to the FWC Lake West, Tern, 2, 3, and 4 (primitive launch firing range or at FWC sponsored events. only on Butterfly, F, Fish Hook, G, Half-Moon, Marl Pit 2, Charlotte County: open to fishing. ■■ All dogs must be leashed, except as autho- Lost Lake East, Lost Lake West, and Tern): ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 10 rized by FWC. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. inches must be released immediately. ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish combined bag Unless otherwise specified, Tenoroc FMA Lakes B and 5: limit: 10 harvest restrictions are: ■■ Boats are restricted to idle speed – no wake. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 ■■ Black bass 15 inches in total length or ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length longer must be released immediately. must be released immediately. ■■ Black bass bag limit: 2 Tenoroc Fish Management Area, Polk County: ■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 6 ■■ Fishing, hunting or trapping is allowed only ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Picnic Lake: by FWC permit. All anglers and hunters ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. must check in and out at the Tenoroc Fish ■■ Fish may not be filleted, nor their head ■■ Black bass bag limit: 2 Management Area headquarters and depos- or tail fins removed, until the angler has ■■ Black bass 15 inches in total length or it their valid fishing or hunting license with checked out at the area headquarters. longer must be released immediately.

Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration — A legacy of success

How often do you see opportunities for themselves and future generations. It has been people or businesses the best thing for anglers since fishing reels were invented. wanting to be taxed and Today, SFR uses a small excise tax on fishing reels and other happy about it? fishing tackle, as well as a motor boat fuel tax, to fund sport fish restoration and boating access programs. It is working. In 1937, President There are now at least 77 percent more anglers than in 1950. Franklin D. Roosevelt Purchases of tax-related items by anglers have increased by signed the Federal Aid nearly 200 percent in dollars (adjusted for the consumer-price in Wildlife Restoration index) since 1955. Act. This Act has been key to implementing the North American Model of Wildlife Anglers and fishing businesses want to know the benefits they Conservation (see MyFWC.com). Since 1941, sport-fishing receive in return. To help answer this, Andrew Loftus Consulting businesses have paid a federal excise tax that was deposited and Southwick Associates analyzed data on excise taxes in the general treasury of the United States but did not directly invested, fishing participation, and angler purchases of excise- benefit manufacturers or anglers. In 1950, sportsmen and tax related products for a 2011 report to the Association of Fish businesses teamed with conservation-minded policy makers to and Wildlife Agencies. The report found that excise-tax related redirect these existing federal excise taxes to the Restoration return-on-investment ranged from 1,585 percent in 1970 to Program (aka: SFR, Dingell-Johnson or Wallop-Breaux). As of 2,643 percent in 1980. 2012, Federal Aid and the North American Model will have In Florida alone, SFR provided $12 million in 2011, of which 15 been working for 75 years. percent ($1.8 million) went to boating access. Freshwater fisheries The concept was to restore sportfish populations and improve conservation received $5 million. The rest went to saltwater public access, so more people can enjoy fishing and so fishing fisheries. In freshwater, the FWC uses this money to improve sales would increase. SFR came about as a result of anglers fisheries habitat, stock fish, conduct research and manage fish wanting to see more money directed toward restoring the populations. We also conduct aquatic education programs and nation’s recreational fisheries, and ensuring better fishing provide valuable fishing and conservation tips to anglers.

26 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission FMA regulations

Pine (formerly East and West Pasture Lakes) Lake Crago: ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife and Derby Lakes: ■■ Largemouth bass, crappie and sunshine with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Boats may not be used. bass: statewide size and bag limits apply. beverages are prohibited. ■■ Closed to fishing unless authorized by ■■ Wire traps may be used for nongame fish. FWC permit for agency-sanctioned events ■■ Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9 a.m. Al Lopez Park Lake, Hillsborough County: open except for anglers who have been certi- ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. to fishing. fied by the U.S. Veterans Administration, ■■ Boats are restricted to idle speed – no wake. ■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. U.S. Social Security Administration, by a ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. branch of the U.S. Armed Services, or by Freedom Lake Park, Pinellas County: open to ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 a licensed Florida physician to be totally fishing. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 and permanently disabled and has obtained ■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife a permanent license issued pursuant to ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. with firearms are prohibited. 373.561 (5)(b),F.S. or unless that person ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 presents proof of acceptance as a client for ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Largo Central Park Nature Preserve, Pinellas developmental disabilities services by the ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife County: open to fishing. Agency for Persons with Disabilities. One with firearms or possession of alcoholic ■■ Cast nets and minnow seines are prohibited. properly licensed person may fish if accom- beverages are prohibited. panying or assisting a permitted individual (Continued on Page 28) as described above. Dover District Park Lake, Hillsborough County: ■■ Other than anglers described above, no one open to fishing. 16 years or older shall fish on Pine or Derby ■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. lakes unless accompanied by a child under ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. 16 years of age. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Anglers may keep no more than 5 bluegill ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife and redear sunfish 8 inches or longer in with firearms or possession of alcoholic total length per day. beverages are prohibited.

Cemetery Lake: Steven J. Wortham Park Lake, Hillsborough ■■ Boats may not be used. County: open to fishing. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. ■■ Anglers may keep no more than 5 bluegill ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. and redear sunfish 8 inches or longer in ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 total length per day. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 FMA regulations (Continued from Page 27)

■■ Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with Mosaic Fish Management Area (formerly Cargill closed to public access by Hardee County firearms and possession of alcoholic bever- Fort Meade Mine), Polk and Hardee counties: for management purposes, or in the event ages are prohibited. open to fishing. that access to the lake exposes the public ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ Fishing is allowed only by daily permit to danger, by posting notice at the Park ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. issued by the FWC. main entrance. ■■ Crappie daily bag limit: 10 ■■ All anglers must check in and out at the ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length Mosaic creel station, the designated entry ■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 6 must be released immediately. point, unless otherwise instructed. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Panfish daily bag limit: 20 ■■ Days and hours of operation and quotas shall ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 ■■ Channel catfish daily bag limit: 6. be as designated by the FWC and posted at ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length the Mosaic creel station (typically Mosaic must be released immediately. Walsingham Park Lake, Pinellas County: open is open Friday through Monday). Fishing ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 to fishing. is permitted in designated lakes only. All ■■ Fish may not be filleted, nor their head or ■■ Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. other lakes and restricted areas, so posted, tail fin removed, until the angler has left ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. are closed to public fishing. Any lake may be the Park. Disposal of fish remains within ■■ Swimming, and taking of fish or wildlife temporarily closed to public access for man- Hardee County Park is prohibited. with firearms or possession of alcoholic agement purposes, or in the event that access ■■ Taking of fish and wildlife with guns is beverages are prohibited. to the lake exposes the public to danger, by prohibited. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. posting notice at the creel station. ■■ Motor vehicles may be operated only on ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 designated roads, parking areas, and boat ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length Unless otherwise specified, Mosaic FMA harvest ramps. must be released immediately. restrictions are: ■■ Vehicles may not obstruct designated roads, ■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 4 ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. boat ramps and fire lanes. ■■ Sunshine bass less than 10 inches in total ■■ Sunshine bass bag limit: 6 ■■ Swimming and float tubes are prohibited. length must be released immediately. ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 ■■ Watercraft are restricted to idle speed – ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length no wake. ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 must be released immediately. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 South Region Middle Lake, Pasco County: open to fishing. ■■ Fish may not be filleted, nor their heads (see map on Page 6 for regions) ■■ Watercraft shall be operated at idle or tail fins removed, until the angler has Palm Lake, St. Lucie County: open to fishing. speed only. checked out at the Mosaic creel station. ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ The following are prohibited within 150 feet Disposal of fish remains within Mosaic ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 of the boat launch site; swimming, taking property is prohibited. of fish or wildlife with firearms, camping, ■■ Taking of fish and wildlife with guns is Caloosa Park Lake, Palm Beach County: open or open fires. prohibited. to fishing. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Motor vehicles may be operated only on ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8 designated roads, parking areas and boat ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 inches in total length must be released ramps. ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 immediately. ■■ Vehicles may not obstruct designated roads, ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8 ■■ Crappie bag limit: 10 boat ramps, gates or fire lanes. inches in total length must be released ■■ Crappie less than 10 inches in total length ■■ Swimming and float tubes are prohibited. immediately. must be released immediately. ■■ Rough fish may be removed from designated lakes by cast nets and minnow seines by Lake Okeeheelee, Palm Beach County: open Lake Istokpoga, Highlands County: open to permission of the landowner. to fishing. fishing. ■■ Outboard motors more than 10 h.p. may ■■ Gasoline motors may not be used on boats. ■■ No bag limit for channel catfish. not be used. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Black bass 15 inches or more in total length ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 and less than 24 inches must be released Regulations for individual Mosaic FMA lakes ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 immediately. are as follows: ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8 ■■ Black bass bag limit: 3 Haul Road Pit: inches in total length must be released ■■ Only 1 black bass may be 24 inches or ■■ Black bass 15 inches in total length or lon- immediately. greater in total length. ger must be released immediately. ■■ Nongame fish may be taken by cast nets, ■■ Black bass bag limit: 2 The northern-most Tropical Park Lake, Miami- dip nets, seines, trotlines, set lines, bush Dade County: open to fishing. hooks and wire traps. Refer to the Florida Long Pond (LP2 West): ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. Commercial Freshwater Fisheries brochure. ■■ No boats permitted. ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Hardee County Park, Hardee County: open to ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8 fishing. inches in total length must be released ■■ All anglers shall enter at the Park main immediately. Go Fish... NOW! entrance, the designated entry point, unless Obtain license otherwise instructed. Plantation Heritage Park Lake, Broward County: privileges, 24 ■■ Angling from a boat is allowed by entry open to fishing. hours a day pass issued by Hardee County. ■■ Black bass must be released immediately. ■■ Angling from shore does not require an ■■ Panfish bag limit: 20 entry pass unless otherwise posted at the ■■ Channel catfish bag limit: 6 Park main entrance. ■■ Bluegill and redear sunfish less than 8 ■■ Days and hours of operation and quotas inches in total length must be released MyFWC.com/License or for freshwater fishing are posted at the immediately. 888-FISH FLORIDA Park main entrance. Fishing is permitted (888-347-4356) in designated lakes only. Any lake may be

28 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Angler Recognition Programs

TrophyCatch Big Catch State Records Largemouth Bass 33 Freshwater Fishes 33 Freshwater Fishes Florida’s newest angler recognition program The “Big Catch” Angler Recognition Program To be listed as a state record, there are several TrophyCatch provides valuable rewards to rewards anglers who catch a memorable-sized requirements. The same 33 species recognized anglers who document and release largemouth fish. Big Catch includes 33 species of fresh- as Big Catch are eligible. Pages 16–17 bass over eight pounds. Bass caught from any water fishes. Pages 16–17 illustrate the illustrate the species and state record as of public and private waters within Florida are species included and qualifying sizes. Anglers May 2013. First, the fish must be weighed on eligible. Go to TrophyCatchFlorida.com for receive a colorful citation and their photo will a certified scale. Second, the fish must be iden- details on how to register and submit your be posted on the website. tified to species by an FWC biologist. Third, catches. While you don’t have to register before An angler catching five “Big” fish of the same the fish must have been legally caught by a you catch a trophy bass, visiting the website species will be recognized as a “Specialist,” licensed, or legally exempt, angler in waters is a great way to learn how to submit your fish of five different species makes a “Master where access and fishing gear were legal. trophy bass catches to earn rewards. Angler,” and 10 different species an “Elite If you catch a possible state record call Angler.” A youth citation is given to an angler your nearest regional office (see Page 6). TrophyCatch Reward Levels under age 16 for catching slightly smaller fish (see MyFWC.com/BigCatch, for specific sizes). ■ Lunker Club: about a $100 value for submit- ■ Also available are several challenging ting verified photographs showing weight “Slam” certificates: Bass“ Slam” (for catching and length of bass 8.0 to 9.9 pounds a largemouth bass, spotted bass, shoal bass, ■■ Trophy Club: over $150 value for submitting and Suwannee bass within one year); “Bream verified photographs showing weight and Slam” (for catching any four of bluegill, redear length of bass 10.0 to 12.9 pounds sunfish, spotted sunfish, warmouth, redbreast sunfish, or flier in one day), and a unique ■ Hall of Fame: over $1,000 value for certi- ■ south Florida “Exotic Slam” (for catching a fying catches of bass over 13 pounds, call butterfly peacock, Mayan cichlid, and oscar 1-888-FL-TROPHY when you catch a bass in one day). over 13 pounds. To learn more and register, visit TrophyCatch- Florida.com. Be sure to friend us on FaceBook. com/TrophyCatchFlorida and “like” us at YouTube.Com/TrophyCatchFlorida.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 2013–2014 29 ADVISORIES

Fish consumption advisories for freshwater anglers Florida’s freshwater and marine fishes are At low to moderate levels found in most By choosing a variety of fish low in mercury generally considered safe to eat. Fish is an Florida fish, mercury poses little danger, and from different water bodies and not eating excellent source of protein and nutrients. The fish can be consumed safely in reasonable only one type, anglers can enjoy health ben- American Heart Association recommends eat- amounts. However, developing fetuses and efits without appreciable risks. Consumption ing fish at least twice a week to help maintain young children are more sensitive to the advisories have been issued to help anglers cardiovascular health. However, certain fish harmful effects mercury has on the brain choose fish lower in mercury while limiting can be potentially unhealthy to eat, because than adults. As a result, women of childbear- consumption of some species of fish from they can take up contaminants from the ing age and young children should eat less certain waters. water and from the food they eat. fish than others to avoid higher health risks.

Count all fish meals from all water bodies fish to eat, refer to the Safe Eating Guidelines, below, for statewide Fish eaten from different water bodies count toward the consumption advice from untested waters. If you don’t see your favorite sport guidelines. For example, a woman of childbearing age should not fish or for recommendations for tested waters, please consult the eat more than 6 ounces of cooked largemouth bass, combined, from publication “Your Guide to Eating Fish Caught in Florida” avail- all water bodies per month. Any additional fish meals eaten during able at doh.state.fl.us/floridafishadvice/ or by calling 850-245-4299. the recommended time period should have low or no mercury levels. EPA/FDA advice for women of childbearing Other Department of Health fish consumption advisories age and young children Lake Apopka (Lake and Orange counties): For women of child- Women of childbearing age and children are more sensitive to mer- bearing age and young children black crappie, bluegill, blue tilapia, cury, and should take special precautions. Guidelines have been and largemouth bass can be eaten once a week and all other indi- established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and viduals can eat these species twice a week. Brown bullhead catfish the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to protect this segment of can be eaten once a month by women of childbearing age and young the population. Please refer to the EPA Fish Advisories Web page children, while the recommendation for everyone else is one meal a for additional information: epa.gov/waterscience/fish/. EPA, along week for brown bullhead due to pesticide contamination. with FDA, recommend that when selecting and eating fish, women and young children reduce their exposure to the harmful effects of Lake Munson (Leon County): Largemouth bass 19 inches or more mercury by following these recommendations. should not be eaten more than one time per month due to PCBs. 1. Do not eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tilefish because they Mercury questions and answers contain high levels of mercury. Where does mercury come from? 2. Eat up to 12 ounces (two average meals) a week of a variety of fish Mercury is released into the environment from natural deposits in and shellfish that are lower in mercury, such as shrimp, canned rocks, volcanoes and soils. It is also released into the environment light tuna, salmon, pollock, and catfish. Albacore (“white”) tuna has when power plants burn coal, incinerators burn mercury-containing more mercury than canned light tuna. So, when choosing your two wastes, and during production of other industrial chemicals. Air- meals of fish and shellfish, you may eat up to 6 ounces of albacore. borne mercury attaches itself to dust and water particles and enters 3. Check Florida Safe Eating Guidelines about the safety of fish caught Florida waters with rain and runoff. by family and friends in Florida lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. The Florida statewide consumption advisory provides general guidelines How does mercury get into fish? for consumption of largemouth bass, bowfin and gar. For other fish Mercury is found in virtually all waters in the state, usually at from local water bodies that are not listed, consume no more than extremely low concentrations. Naturally occurring bacteria, which 6 ounces per week. decompose dead plant and animal material in lakes and wetlands, convert mercury into a form called methyl mercury. Methyl mercury For more information accumulates primarily from organisms eaten by fish. Fish may Check the FWC Web site: research.MyFWC.com/Mercury, or contain different levels of contaminants based on their location, doh.state.fl.us/floridafishadvice. size, age, and feeding habits. Can I trim or cook fish to get rid of mercury? No. Mercury accumulates in the muscle tissue of fish, the part you eat. Therefore, trimming excess fat and skinning do not reduce the Safe eating guidelines amount of mercury you consume. The only way to reduce mercury These Safe Eating Guidelines provide general advice to anglers consumption is to eat fish from less contaminated water bodies and from all untested water bodies in the state. to select species that are lower in mercury. For specific guidance for all tested marine and fresh waters, consult How do I choose which fish to eat? the Florida Department of Health publication Your Guide to Eating Small, short-lived species such as sunfish (e.g., bluegill, redear Fish Caught in Florida [See: doh.state.fl.us/floridafishadvice/ or sunfish, redbreast sunfish, or spotted sunfish) and brown bullhead call 850-245-4299]. DOH’s printed advisory and website generally are generally lower in mercury. Generally, smaller largemouth bass classify fish using moderate or strict guidelines. contain less mercury than larger individuals. To help you select Moderate guidelines generally for smaller, short-lived fishes such as panfish — but see DOH Guide for details. “Your Guide To Eating Fish Caught In Florida” ■■ Limits for women of childbearing age and young children are: one 6-oz. meal per week. Fish and shellfish have been tested for mercury in many Florida wa- ■■ For everyone else: two 6-oz. meals per week. ters. For these, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) website of- fers specific consumption advice: doh.state.fl.us/floridafishadvice Stricter guidelines generally for larger, longer-lived fishes – or call DOH at 850-245-4299. but see DOH Guide for details. In a few locations, some species have high mercury levels and ■■ Limits for women of childbearing age and young children are: should not be eaten, while others are recommended for limited one 6-oz. meal per month. consumption (one meal per week or one meal per month). ■■ For everyone else: one 6-oz. meal per week.

30 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission F.A.Q.

Red-eared sliders may be harvested without a permit but not pos- Frequently answered questions sessed alive without a conditional species permit. Those in possession Do I need a freshwater or saltwater fishing license or both? of a valid Aquaculture Certificate of Registration and restricted spe- In general, you need a freshwater license to take freshwater fish and cies authorization from the FDACS (FloridaAquaculture.com) may a saltwater license to take saltwater fish, unless one of the exemp- culture and sell red-eared sliders, but only to out-of-state recipients tions specified on Page 8 applies. If you are fishing in fresh water or Floridians who have a valid conditional species permit. However, where no saltwater species live, you need a freshwater license and, certified turtle farmers that buy red-eared sliders for direct retail likewise, if you are fishing in the ocean or Gulf you need a saltwater sale must have a conditional species permit. The application for a license. However, when you get into estuarine areas where salt and conditional species permit is at License.MyFWC.com. Rules subject fresh water mix and fish of both types can be found, the issue becomes to change; see FLrules.org for the latest. less clear. The interpretation of the rule is: You need either a freshwater, saltwater or combination license, or What regulations apply to clams, mussels and other mollusks? appropriate exemption, to take fish (take is legally defined as taking, Regulations governing taking and possession of freshwater mussels are attempting to take, pursuing, molesting, capturing or killing any fish, covered by 68A-23.015 FAC. In summary, “Taking” live or dead fresh- or their nests or eggs by any means whether or not such actions result water mussels for the purpose of sale, as well as “selling,” is prohibited. in obtaining possession of such fish or their nests or eggs). If you are Bag Limit: No person shall take more than 10 freshwater mussels, or using species-specific gear, your license should be appropriate (e.g., 20 half-shells of the families Unionidae and Margaritiferidae per day. freshwater or saltwater) to the species you are targeting. Otherwise Additionally, no person may possess more than two days’ bag limit you need an appropriate type license to keep your catch and must im- (20 individual, 40 half-shells) of any mussels of these families. Any mediately release any species for which you are not licensed. License deviation requires a permit from the Executive Director, in accordance requirements follow the species of fish, regardless of where they are with 68A-9.002 FAC (see illustrations, Page 13). caught. For example, if you only have a freshwater license and are ■■ Freshwater mussels from families other than the two mentioned primarily fishing for largemouth bass or bream (freshwater species) above, such as Asian clams, may be taken for bait or personal use. in a river, but happen to catch a red drum (a saltwater species), you No recreational license is needed. must immediately release the red drum. An exception is you may take ■■ Mussels may only be taken by “hand-picking.” Use of brailles, mullet from fresh water with only a freshwater fishing license, even crowfoot bars, or other mechanical methods is prohibited. though they are normally considered a saltwater species. What regulations apply to harvesting fish for home aquaria? What regulations apply to frogs? There are no seasons, bag or size Rules and regulations for recreational take and possession apply. You limits for frogs and a recreational license is not needed. To sell frogs or cannot be in possession, nor may your aquarium contain more than take frogs to sell, a commercial fish dealers license is required. Frogs these limits. Legal methods of collecting and license requirements also may be taken in accordance with 68A-26.002, Florida Administrative apply. You need a freshwater fishing license to take (defined as “tak- Code (FAC), including use of gigs — provided gigs are not specifically ing, attempting to take, pursuing, hunting, molesting, capturing, or prohibited in the area. killing any freshwater fish, their nests or eggs, by any means, whether or not such actions result in obtaining possession of such freshwater What regulations apply to freshwater crayfish? There are no fish or their nests or eggs”). Avoid taking Florida’s endangered spe- seasons, gear, bag or size limits for freshwater crayfish, and neither cies. A list of them can be found at MyFWC.com/WildlifeHabitats. a recreational nor commercial license is needed. It is illegal to take Florida’s imperiled crayfish (Panama City, Sims Sink and Black How do I use total length and girth to estimate bass weight? Creek crayfishes) and all cave-inhabiting crayfish. When you don’t have a scale, you can use total length and girth to get a rough estimate of a bass’ weight. See the figure on Page 14 for how to What regulations apply to freshwater turtles? Licenses and measure total length and girth, then use the following formula: Total permits are not required to take a recreational bag limit of turtles Length (in inches) squared, times girth (in inches) divided by 1200. in accordance with rules provided below. Turtles may be taken by For example, a 22" long bass with a girth of 15" would weigh about hook and line, net or hand. 6.1 pounds (22 x 22 x 15 / 1200 = 6.1). See MyFWC.com/Bass-Formula Freshwater turtles taken from the wild may not be sold, but fresh- for an online calculator. water turtles raised on aquaculture facilities or purchased from licensed vendors can be sold. There is a take and transportation What is the penalty for fishing without a license, keeping too limit of one (1) turtle per person unless the individual transporting many fish or illegal sized fish?Generally, noncriminal infractions the turtles has a receipt indicating the purchase date; quantity and involve license or permit violations, motor size issues or measurement species of turtles acquired; and the name and address of supplier. violations related to fish. Second-degree misdemeanors are criminal Snapping turtles, cooters and map turtles may not be taken from acts and typically involve taking fish it is illegal to take, fishing in the wild. Additionally, alligator snapping turtles, Suwannee cooters areas that are closed, using illegal gear or counting violations (more and Barbour’s map turtles may not be possessed without a Class III than the bag limit). Failure to pay a noncriminal penalty (similar No-Cost Personal Pet Permit and then, only if they were obtained to a traffic ticket) within 30 days escalates the charge to a second- prior to July 20, 2009. degree misdemeanor. Forgery of a license or use of a forged license The following species have a possession limit of two: loggerhead is a third-degree felony. Florida Statutes outline the range of penal- musk turtles, box turtles, Escambia map turtles and Diamondback ter- ties; for instance, a second-degree misdemeanor is punishable by up rapins. Turtle eggs may not be possessed without a permit. Red-eared to $500 and/or 60 days imprisonment at the discretion of the court. sliders may not be possessed without a conditional species permit. What is the economic value of freshwater fishing in Florida? Taking cooters, Escambia map turtles and snapping turtles from Although the value of recreational fisheries extends far beyond its the wild is prohibited because of similarity to Suwannee cooters, economic impact, it is important to note that Florida’s famed fisheries Barbour’s map turtles and alligator snapping turtles, respectively. For continue to be a major job creator and to attract millions of tourists. all other freshwater turtles, take is limited to one turtle per person Southwick Associates published “Sportfishing in America: An per day from the wild for noncommercial use. Freshwater turtles only Economic Force for Conservation, 2013” for the American Sportfishing can be taken by hand, dip net, minnow seine or baited hook. Many Association. This report documents that Florida ranked No. 1 with 3.1 freshwater turtles may be taken year-round, but softshell turtles may million anglers. Florida’s role as the fishing destination for travelers not be taken from the wild from May 1 to July 31. In addition, col- was reaffirmed, with 2 million nonresident anglers visiting the state. lecting of freshwater turtle eggs is prohibited. You may transport no The ripple effect of these dollars was an $8.7 billion economic impact more than one turtle at a time, unless you have proof that all turtles from Florida’s recreational fisheries that supported 80,211 jobs. were purchased legally, and an importation/temporary possession Specific to freshwater in 2011, Florida had 1.2 million anglers. They permit (License.MyFWC.com) from the FWC, or a valid Aquaculture enjoyed 25.7 million days fishing, spending almost a billion dollars Certificate of Registration from the Florida Department of Agriculture and generating an economic impact of $1.7 billion, which supported and Consumer Services (FDACS: FloridaAquaculture.com). more than 14,000 jobs.

32 2013–2014 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission