New Rules for Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Anglers
     Beginning June 1, 2008, a person on board a vessel harvesting any species of reef fish in Gulf of Mexico waters must possess and use non-stainless steel circle hooks when fishing with natural baits, a dehooking device and a venting tool.

     Reef fish species include all snappers, groupers, sea bass, amberjacks, gray triggerfish, hogfish, red porgy and golden tilefish.

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     Recreational and commercial fisheries comprise multi-billion dollar industries in Florida. Increasing demands for both high quality seafood products and memorable recreational fishing opportunities have placed increased pressure on the stocks of finfish and shellfish species which inhabit the coastal waters of Florida. Increased usage associated with this demand dictates the need for more effective fisheries management programs. Effective management requires knowledge on the life history of the target species, sustainable catch levels, appropriate distribution of the catch among commercial and recreational users, by-catch associated with different types of fishing gear, impact of fishing shrimp pictureactivities on essential habitats, and many other issues. Biological, economic, and social expertise must be brought to bear by research and educational programs in a manner such that the sustainable use of Florida's marine finfish and shellfish resources can be ensured.

     The Florida Sea Grant Program has a long history of funding research and educational programs associated with fisheries management. This research has focused on a wide variety of topics including biological modeling of fish stocks, understanding the economic characteristics of the fisheries-based industries, improving the design of artificial habitats, recognizing the social impact of marine resource regulations, measuring the contribution of marine habitats to fisheries production, and others. And making sure the findings are effectively transferred to industry participants, recreational fishers, and resource managers is vital. By focusing on the wise utilization of Florida's fisheries resources, Florida Sea Grant can help ensure that these resources can be appreciated by generations yet to come.