The latest updates from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission relevant to anglers, boaters and outdoor enthusiasts in the areas of Hobe Sound, Stuart, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach and Sebastian.Treasure Coast
Recently there has been a slow but steady realization by many South Florida fisherman that the Keys barracuda population is in decline. As a result, Bonefish and Tarpon Trust, KeysKeeper, and the Lower Keys Guides Association are teaming up to urge the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to make barracuda a top priority on their list.Treasure Coast
The popularity of land crabs as a tasty meal and the loss of habitat to development have significantly impacted their population numbers. The practice of catching them just as they are heading to deposit their eggs in the ocean, the worst time to harvest, has increased to the point that it has prompted the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission to issue a set of rules to protect these colorful crabs during their most vulnerable period.Florida Oceanographic Society
Florida has made several regulatory changes to better combat the growing lionfish problem. Introduced in the late 1980s, lionfish populations have boomed in recent years, negatively impacting native wildlife and habitat.Editorial Staff
For those headed to Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park (ECLSP) in the Bahamas, here’s your heads-up that the fee structure for visitors has changed. Editorial Staff
Florida freshwater anglers target at least 25 species of native fishes. Most are within a 45-minute drive of anyone wanting to wet a line. In addition to those, the free Florida Big Catch angler recognition program (BigCatchFlorida.com) features six species of exotic fishes from other countries and several fish species that expanded their ranges from farther north.Treasure Coast
For those looking to take fly fishing for trout to a whole new level, consider mousing. Mousing refers to fishing for trout with large topwater patterns meant to mimic small rodents. It is a tactic best utilized at night, when nocturnal rodents forage.Editorial Staff
I prefer pompano rigs with two hooks and a 1- to 3-ounce pyramid sinker as the anchor. Pyramid sinkers dig deeper into the sand than bell or barrel types and should be just heavy enough to prevent your rig from walking back to shore. Keep a few different weights at your disposal and adjust accordingly.Chris Beardsley