The temporary order from the FWC covers the area from the northernmost point of Anna Maria Island in Manatee County to Gordon Pass in Collier County.

TAMPA BAY – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has temporarily made snook and redfish catch-and-release only from the northernmost point of Anna Maria Island in Manatee County to Gordon Pass in Collier County.

This was done through an executive order in response to the naturally-occurring red tide bloom in southwest Florida and is in effect until the next FWC Commission meeting, which starts Sept. 26. Regulations outside of those counties remain unchanged, including the Sept. 1 snook season opening that occurs in other Gulf and Atlantic state waters.

“I support Executive Director Eric Sutton’s decision to implement the executive order as we continue to manage this world-class fishery for future generations,” FWC Chairman Bo Rivard said. “We will continue working with our partners and will evaluate next steps at our commission meeting the end of September.”

Sutton has spent significant time in the areas most impacted by naturally-occurring red tide. He and staff will continue to work with local communities and partners as the FWC manages this issue to ensure recovery of the fisheries.

“We’ve seen the devastation to the redfish and snook populations in southwest Florida, and we support the catch-and-release initiative taken by FWC,” said Brian Gorski, executive director of Coastal Conservation Association Florida. “In working with the FWC on this initiative, we’ve heard support from members and guides throughout the state who also understand the need for such a change, to ensure that generations to come can enjoy the thrill of catching one of these iconic species.”

For  information, go to MyFWC.com and click on “About,” then “Executive Orders,” or click here.

File photo shows snook. Map courtesy of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

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