Florida Fish & Wildlife Resources

FL Fishing Licenses, RSS Newsfeeds, Photos, Wildlife, Fishing Rules / Regulations, Fees & Permits

Marco Island Living presents the latest news and RSS feeds from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. The FL Fish & Wildlife Commission handles the state regulations, licenses and permits for Florida Fresh- Water and Saltwater Fishing, Hunting and Trapping. Find the Florida Fish and Wildlife Department News below. Share Florida Fish and Wildlife comments. To feature your business, contact us.

State of Florida Fish & Wildlife News Feed

Southwest FL Fish & Wildlife News

FWC reminds residents in panther country to take steps to protect small livestock
FWC reminds residents in panther country to take steps to protect small livestock -
Because of recent incidents of Florida panthers taking livestock and pets in Golden Gates Estates in Collier County, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is advising residents in the area to take the necessary precautions to properly shelter animals such as goats, sheep, calves, pigs, donkeys and chickens.

“The best way for people to protect small livestock is to keep them in a secure fenced enclosure with a roof, especially at night,” said FWC panther team leader Darrell Land. “We encourage people who live in panther country to take the necessary steps to protect their animals from being taken by a panther or other predators such as bears, bobcats and coyotes.”

Similar safety measures should be taken to protect pets like dogs and cats by keeping them indoors at night or in an outdoor panther-proof pen.

The FWC is investigating and monitoring depredations on multiple miniature horses. Biologists have documented that panthers have killed two miniature horses and a pony in recent weeks.

People can learn more about living in panther country from the brochure, A guide to living with Florida Panthers. This resource reminds people, for instance, not to feed deer or other wildlife around their homes since that can attract panthers looking for prey.

People who have problems or concerns about panthers should call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone. To report a panther sighting to the FWC, go to MyFWC.com/PantherSightings.

Additional information about Florida panthers is available at MyFWC.com/Panther.
You’re invited to MarineQuest 2018!
You’re invited to MarineQuest 2018! -
Dive into science at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Fish and Wildlife Research Institute’s open house: MarineQuest 2018.

The public is invited to learn about Florida’s fish, wildlife and their habitats on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at FWRI’s headquarters in downtown St. Petersburg, 100 Eighth Ave. SE. MarineQuest is a free, family-friendly event.

Held in conjunction with the St. Petersburg Science Festival, MarineQuest offers fun for all ages. Attend this event to get a firsthand look inside FWRI’s laboratories, peer through microscopes, examine manatee bones and participate in hands-on activities while learning about marine life in our oceans.

Outside, discover touch tanks teeming with marine creatures, learn about research being conducted at our field labs from biologists from the Florida Keys, freshwater fisheries and terrestrial wildlife research, and enjoy arts and crafts such as “gyotaku” – the art of Japanese fish printing. In addition to FWRI’s lab displays and interactive stations, MarineQuest hosts representatives from other conservation and science organizations.

Event parking is available for $5 at the SouthCore Parking Garage, 101 First Ave. S. A free shuttle will transport visitors from the parking garage to the MarineQuest entrance.

Sponsors include the Tampa Bay Times, University of South Florida St. Petersburg and the city of St. Petersburg.

This event is designed to provide equal opportunities for enjoyment to all participants. If you would like to request any particular aids or services pursuant to disability laws, contact the event planner at 727-896-8626 or the city of St. Petersburg Community Affairs Division at 727-893-7345 or 727-892-5259 TDD/TTY.

For more information about MarineQuest 2018, visit MyFWC.com/MarineQuest.

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Capt. Phil DeVille – 10,000 Islands Backwaters - Everglades National Park Fishing Tours, Port of the Islands, Naples, FL | 239-293-5480
Share Captain Phil's passion for the Ten Thousand Islands - Florida Everglades charter fishing trips. Fish for Snook, Red Fish, Trout, Snapper, Flounder and more from a 17' Mitzi Skiff Flats Boatfish. Over 15 varieties of edible fish and great sport fishing. Up to 189 species of birds may be seen in a single trip. View alligators, crocodiles, osprey, eagles, dolphin, and manatee.
Visit Capt. Phil DeVille - Evergaldes Fishing

Sunshine Tours and Charters, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island FL | 239-642-5415
Sunshine Tours offers the best in Offshore, Back Country and Near Coastal Fishing, Island Shelling and Sightseeing aboard one of our four fishing boats. Since 1984, Sunshine Tours has provide unsurpassed on-the-water experiences for locals and visitors alike. Shared and private fishing charters available.
Visit Sunshine Tours - Marco Island

Outgoing Charters - Captain Jesse Hill, Everglades City, Chokoloskee, Port of the Islands, FL | 239-825-6283
At Outgoing Charters the customer comes first. Whether it's family fun or hardcore fishing, Captain Jesse Hill is a 4th generation native guide who will cater to your specific wants and needs. Light tackle, back country fishing in Everglades National Park and the 10,000 Islands. Fish for redfish, snook and more. You'll enjoy a comfortable boat with quality gear. Captain Jesse's ultimate goal is to exceed your expectations.
Call Capt. Jesse Hill - Outgoing Charters

Everglades Fishing Captains | FL Fishing Charters

Southwest FL Fish & Wildlife Fishing News

Share input on management of the recreational spotted seatrout fishery
Share input on management of the recreational spotted seatrout fishery -
The FWC is gathering input on management of the recreational spotted seatrout fishery. Your input will help FWC better understand the public’s satisfaction and desires related to this popular recreational fishery.

Background

Spotted seatrout is managed in Florida in four unique zones across the state (Northwest, Southwest, Southeast and Northeast).

The status of the seatrout populations within each zone is assessed using a measure of population health known as the Spawning Potential Ratio. Research indicates seatrout populations should be kept to at least 20 percent SPR to maintain a sustainable population. The FWC manages spotted seatrout at a higher management goal of 35 percent SPR to provide a better fishery.

In 2017, staff held a series of workshops related to a draft spotted seatrout assessment. The final assessment results were released in 2018 and suggest the Southwest and Southeast zones are exceeding the FWC’s management goal. The Northeast and Northwest zones are not meeting the 35 percent SPR management goal and may benefit from some management actions.

The results of the survey will be brought to a Commission meeting in early 2019.
Media statement: FWC Commission red snapper fishery update
Media statement: FWC Commission red snapper fishery update -
At its December meeting in St. Augustine, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) directed staff to proceed with a proposal that would set the popular and economically important 2019 Gulf red snapper recreational season.

Under the current draft proposal, the Gulf season would be open June 11 through July 12, with a possible fall reopening if quota is available. This season would apply to those fishing from private recreational vessels in state and federal waters and to charter vessels that do not have a federal reef fish permit and are limited to fishing in state waters only. Staff will report back to the Commission at the February meeting for final review and approval of the 2019 Gulf red snapper recreational season.
Media statement: FWC Commission Blue Heron Bridge dive site update
Media statement: FWC Commission Blue Heron Bridge dive site update -
At its December meeting in St. Augustine, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a draft proposal that would maintain high-quality snorkeling and diving opportunities at the Blue Heron Bridge/Phil Foster County Park in Palm Beach County. The Commissioners also approved expanding the previously proposed closed area to include additional waters north of the park.

The changes, if approved at the February Commission meeting, would:
- Prohibit the collection and possession of marine life fishery species (species collected for and managed for the tropical aquarium trade) within the park and surrounding waters (prohibitions would not apply to other fishing activities, such as hook-and-line fishing).
The changes would allow direct transit of marine life species harvested outside the closed area through the closed area so long as the vessel does not stop. The changes would also allow landing by motorized vessel of those species collected elsewhere at the park boat ramp and docks.

Further, staff will evaluate all future Special Activities Licenses to determine if collection from the Blue Heron Bridge dive site is necessary or if another location can be used. Special Activities Licenses authorize certain activities that are otherwise not allowed under current recreational and commercial harvest regulations and are often issued for scientific research, education or public exhibition purposes.

To comment on this and other proposals, visit MyFWC.com/SaltwaterComments or email Marine@MyFWC.com.

Southwest FL Fish & Wildlife License & Permit News

FWC to meet Dec. 12-13 in St. Augustine
FWC to meet Dec. 12-13 in St. Augustine -
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will meet Dec. 12-13 at World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine Resort, 500 S. Legacy Trail, St. Augustine, Florida 32092. Both days are open to the public.

The FWC is committed to providing opportunity for public input at each Commission meeting. As standard practice, the Commission welcomes public input regarding agenda items using the established speaker registration process and time limits. To accommodate as much input as possible from those attending, the Chairman reserves the right to designate the amount of time given to each speaker, including time donation to other speakers.

The meeting is scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m., and the public will be provided opportunities to speak on agenda items each day. The Commission will also provide time for public comment on subjects not on the agenda at the end of the first day, Dec. 12. Those who wish to offer comments during this period will be asked to make sure their comments are not related to any agenda item.

For the full Dec 12-13 agenda and links to background reports, go to MyFWC.com/Commission and select “Commission Meetings.” Those who cannot attend can follow coverage at Twitter.com/MyFWC (@MyFWC) and join in the conversation by using the #FWC2018 hashtag. Check the Florida Channel for possible live video coverage at TheFloridaChannel.org.
FWC to meet Sept. 26-27 near Tallahassee
FWC to meet Sept. 26-27 near Tallahassee -
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will meet Sept. 26-27 at the Florida Public Safety Institute, 85 Academy Drive, Havana, FL 32333. The Institute is west of Midway on U.S. 90. Both days are open to the public.

The FWC is committed to providing opportunity for public input at each Commission meeting. As standard practice, the Commission welcomes public input regarding agenda items using the established speaker registration process and time limits. To accommodate as much input as possible from those attending, the Chairman reserves the right to designate the amount of time given to each speaker, including time donation to other speakers.

The meeting is scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m., and the public will be provided opportunities to speak on agenda items each day. The Commission will also provide time for public comment on subjects not on the agenda at the end of the first day, Sept. 26. Those who wish to offer comments during this period will be asked to make sure their comments are not related to any agenda item.

For the full Sept 26-27 agenda and links to background reports, go to MyFWC.com/Commission and select “Commission Meetings.” Those who cannot attend can follow coverage at Twitter.com/MyFWC (@MyFWC) and join in the conversation by using the #FWC2018 hashtag. Check the Florida Channel for possible live video coverage at TheFloridaChannel.org.
Support conservation while having fun this National Hunting and Fishing Day, celebrating #WhoTaughtYou
Support conservation while having fun this National Hunting and Fishing Day, celebrating #WhoTaughtYou -
Photos (Flickr): https://flic.kr/s/aHsmns5ZDs

Florida has abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. The state boasts public access to a wide array of hunting, fishing, boating and wildlife viewing activities. It is the Fishing Capital of the World and has one of the largest wildlife management area systems in the country. You can celebrate National Hunting and Fishing Day Sept. 22 by enjoying all the state has to offer, and make a difference, as well.

“I hope many Florida residents and visitors will participate in one of the many outdoor activities that Florida has to offer in recognition of National Hunting and Fishing Day. Participating in these outdoor activities is not only fun, it also results in supporting conservation efforts,” said Eric Sutton, Executive Director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). “For many of us, someone important in our lives took the time to introduce us to fishing, hunting, boating, hiking or wildlife viewing. This is a great time of year for us to make a difference in conservation by taking the time to introduce someone to the outdoors.”

The FWC encourages fellow conservationists to show appreciation for how they got involved in hunting, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, birding, hiking, or other outdoor recreational activities. To share a memory from the outdoors, post a picture to social media with #WhoTaughtYou.

In 1972, Congress established the fourth Saturday in September as a special day to honor hunters and anglers for their leadership in conserving America’s fish, wildlife and wild places by continually participating in these outdoor sports and by ensuring that their licenses remain valid. This group is a valuable part of natural resource conservation – and you can be, too.

Thanks to the vision of notable Americans, such as President Theodore Roosevelt, fish and wildlife management in North America is largely entrusted to states and other government entities, with all citizens owning an equal share. Several federal efforts, including the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration and Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration acts, laid the foundation for what is referred to as the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.

“What this means for Florida’s residents and visitors is that we can all make a difference. We can all enjoy the natural resources of our state and we are all responsible for conserving them,” Sutton said.

The hunting, fishing, boating and shooting sports industries pay into the federal Wildlife and Sportfish Restoration program, resulting annually in millions of dollars for each state agency to fund science-based fish and wildlife conservation and boating opportunity improvements. When people purchase firearms, ammunition, fishing gear, archery equipment or motorboat fuel, their dollars ultimately support research, education, access to public lands and water, and conserving a range of fish and wildlife.

“Additionally, when you purchase a Florida hunting or fishing license, you play a major role in this program because the WSFR funding Florida receives depends, in part, on the number of licenses issued,” Sutton said.

Visit GoOutdoorsFlorida.com to purchase or renew your Florida hunting or fishing license.

Over the years, Florida has had many conservation success stories – turkeys, spotted sea trout, white-tailed deer, alligators, manatees, bald eagles, green sea turtles, panther, bass – and while some of these species are protected in Florida, the support of hunters and anglers has been essential to these conservation accomplishments through recreational hunting and fishing license sales, and WSFR funding.

Floridians also support wildlife conservation by purchasing license plates through tax collector’s offices that contribute to the FWC’s research and management efforts with manatees, sea turtles and panthers. There is also a Conserve Wildlife tag. More on the license plates is at BuyaPlate.com. Colorful manatee and sea turtle decals, redesigned annually and available through tax collectors’ offices, also give people a way to help these species. Explore other ways to enhance conservation of the state’s wildlife and habitats at the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida.

Visit MyFWC.com for recreational safety tips and other resources.