The Florida Keys, a tropical archipelago off the southern tip of Florida, is a fisherman’s paradise. With its diverse marine ecosystem, crystal-clear waters, and abundant fish populations, it’s no wonder anglers from around the world flock to this aquatic wonderland. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice casting a line for the first time, … Read more
Catch and Cook Grunts are a popular target for recreational anglers in the Florida Keys, offering a tasty and sustainable fishing experience. These small, bottom-dwelling fish are known for their distinctive grunting sound, which is caused by the movement of their swim bladders. Catching Grunts: Grunts can be caught using a variety of techniques, including: … Read more
When fishing for tarpon this season, be sure to use best fishing practices to keep silver kings reigning. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) consulted a number of external partners, including charter captains, Salt Strong and Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, to create a comprehensive list of best Tarpon fishing practices to guide anglers looking to target … Read more
Marine biologists in Florida may have discovered the first-ever great hammerhead shark nursery, one of the largest predatory shark species. The nursery is believed to be located in Biscayne Bay, a developed area on the southeast coast of Florida. Unlike other shark species, great hammerheads give birth to live young, and the juveniles spend their … Read more
Hogfish recreational harvest will close in state and federal waters off the east coast of Florida and the Florida Keys starting Nov. 1. This Hogfish closure includes all state and federal waters south of Cape Sable, which is on the Gulf side of Florida and up the Atlantic coast. The recreational harvest season of Florida … Read more
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the Great Outdoors Initiative to encourage Floridians to go outdoors and explore Florida’s natural resources, including our award-winning state parks, vast recreation areas, and world-renowned waterways. As part of the Great Outdoors Initiative, Governor DeSantis signed Executive Order 23-209 (The Great Outdoors Initiative) directing the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and … Read more
At its October meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved changes to recreational and commercial stone crab regulations for escape ring requirements. These regulation changes include: For the 2023-24 stone crab season, an unobstructed escape ring 2 3/16 inches in diameter for all recreational and commercial plastic or wood stone crab traps … Read more
Key Largo and Islamorada are beautiful destinations in the Florida Keys. Here are some things to do in both places in September 2023. Things To Do In Key Largo John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Explore the underwater world through snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tours. It’s a fantastic place for marine life and coral reef … Read more
The Florida Keys, known for their stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life, offer an incredible opportunity for adventure seekers and food enthusiasts alike. Among the many delicacies that grace the waters of the Keys, the Florida Keys Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus) stands out as a delectable treat for seafood aficionados. We will take you … Read more
The Florida Keys, a paradise for ocean enthusiasts and adventure seekers, has once again set the stage for an adrenaline-pumping and unforgettable experience – the 2023 Florida Keys Sport Lobster Season. This much-anticipated event draws thousands of divers and snorkelers from all over the world, eager to catch a glimpse of these elusive crustaceans and … Read more
Starting in March 2013, recreational crab traps in Florida will be required to have rigid funnel openings no larger than 2 x 6 inches at the narrowest point or 2 x 6-inch bycatch reduction devices installed to reduce accidental trapping of diamondback terrapins, which has been a significant threat to the species. The rule was approved by … Read more
Are you looking for some fun and affordable things to do with your family in the Florida Keys? Look no further! Here are some great ideas for your next family vacation: Visit the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center. This museum is filled with interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the unique ecosystems of the Florida Keys. … Read more
Located at the southernmost tip of the state, the Florida Keys are a true paradise for anglers of all skill levels. With its crystal clear waters and diverse marine life, the Keys offer some of the best fishing in the world. Whether you’re an experienced angler looking to target your Favorite Florida Keys Fish species … Read more
I am always looking for ways to save money while still being able to enjoy all the activities and experiences that a place has to offer. That’s why I was excited to discover that the Florida Keys have plenty of opportunities for free shoreline fishing. Whether you are an experienced angler or a beginner, the … Read more
The Florida Keys are a popular vacation destination year-round, but there are plenty of special events and activities to enjoy in December. Here are a few ideas for things to do in the Florida Keys this month: Celebrate the holiday season at the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in Key West. This annual event takes place … Read more
The recreational and commercial spiny lobster season starts Aug. 6 and runs through March 31. Learn more about bag limits, size limits, where to harvest, and other regulations at MyFWC.com/Marine by clicking on “Recreational Regulations” and “Lobster,” which is under the “Crabs, Lobster and other Shellfish” tab. If you plan to lobster in the Keys, another great … Read more
Lobstering in the Florida Keys is a great way to get fresh seafood. The Florida Keys are home to some of the best Spiny Crawfish or lobster in the world. The lobster here are caught in the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, and Gulf of Mexico. They are known for their sweet taste and tenderness. Recreational Lobstering … Read more
If you’re fishing for reef fish this season, be sure to look for signs of barotrauma and be prepared to act. Barotrauma, or injuries caused by pressure changes, occur when fish are rapidly brought to the surface from depths 50 feet or greater. Signs of barotrauma include the stomach coming out of the mouth, bloated … Read more
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is celebrating the launch of Return ‘Em Right, a multi-entity effort in the Gulf of Mexico led by Florida Sea Grant, University of Florida, Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission, NOAA Fisheries, and a coalition of anglers, industry groups, universities, government and non-government organizations committed to maintaining healthy fish stocks and fishing … Read more
At its May meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved proposed management regions and regulation changes for redfish in state waters. The proposed rule changes would: Modify the redfish management regions. (See figure 1) Prohibit captain and crew from retaining a bag limit when on a for-hire trip. Reduce the off-the-water transport … Read more