FWC News Release

March 27, 2008
Contact: Lee Schlesinger, 850-487-0554 or Gary Morse, 863-648-3200

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds anglers that rules limiting the use of certain types of fishing gear in Boca Grande Pass take effect April 1.

These rules prohibit the use of more than three fishing lines per vessel to harvest any species of fish and prohibit the use of breakaway gear to harvest any fish in the pass during April, May and June. Breakaway gear is “any bob, float, weight, lure or spoon that is affixed to a fishing line or hook with wire, line, rubber bands, plastic ties or other fasteners designed to break off when a fish is caught.”

The FWC encourages anglers to use and develop rigging techniques that reduce the likelihood of debris on the bottom of the pass, to respect others fishing in the pass and to operate their boats safely.

For more information about tarpon fishing regulations, use of appropriate tackle and proper fishing and boating behavior in this world-renowned fishery, see the FWC’s free brochure “Tarpon Fishing in Boca Grande Pass.” The brochure is available at numerous locations in the Charlotte Harbor/Boca Grande area and online at MyFWC.com/marine/Tarpon_brochure.pdf.