Fishermen beware: Effective April 1, state regulations substantially reduced the bag limit and recreational season for red porgy in the Atlantic. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) cited “overfishing” and the need for “consistent regulations between state and federal waters” as reasons for the changes.
What you need to know:
1. The daily bag limit is ONE (down from three)
2. Open recreational season is May through June (previously year-round)
3. The new regulations only affect Atlantic state waters. The rules for fishing red porgy in the Gulf remain the same as of the date of this writing.
4. The new regulations only affect recreational fishing. For commercial rules on red porgy, visit myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/commercial
The reduction of bag limit and season for Atlantic red porgy is part of a broader rule to modify recreational regulations for multiple species of fish, including the snowy grouper and blueline tilefish. The regulations for these other two species will go into effect upon implementation of the corresponding federal regulations.
Red porgy is a species of fish found in warm, shallow, coastal waters. It is pinkish-silver in color, has a round head, and can grow up to three feet in length. This fish feeds mostly on crustaceans and small fish near the seabed.
Fishing out of season or in excess of the bag limit is a crime. Floridians and those who visit our state should stay informed about the ever-changing rules to avoid an arrest or criminal citation. The most up-to-date information is available on the Florida Fish and Wildlife website.
If you have been arrested or cited for a fish and wildlife violation, our law firm is here to help. Contact us today.
Casanova Law
(561) 236-5340
info@casanovalawpa.com
