It seems there’s more controversy than usual coming up at Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission hearings these days. This blog just played a part in bringing light to a FWC proposal that would create a deer industry monopoly in the state — and now seeks to bring attention to another FWC draft rule that would be a major change for sport fishers.
On Wednesday, the 7-member FWC will vote on a proposal that would designate tarpon a catch-and-release-only species.ย This meeting, which will take place in Lakeland, will also consider a draft rule to prohibit gear rigged with bottom weights — a technique that is notorious for catching tarpon, even those who are not actively feeding.ย
Tarpon are not considered eatable but are iconic trophy game fish.ย In a letter to the editor, Randy Wayne White presents “Fishing’s Dirty Little Secret”, outlining the rationale for these draft rules, and arguing persuasively that tarpon would be rightly protected by their implementation. ย White is a former fishing guide and columnist for Outside magazine and is the author of a bestselling series of adventure novels featuring marine biologist Doc Ford. His column can be read in the Miami Herald, Tallahassee Democrat, Ledger, New Herald and Times.
