Conservation

Environmental and waterway news.

Latest in Conservation

Hobe Sound Nature Center seeking volunteers for annual Christmas Bird Count

The Hobe Sound Nature Center is seeking volunteers to participate in the annual Jonathan Dickinson State Park Christmas Bird Count on Sunday, December 28. Experienced and amateur birders are all welcomed, with assignments available from Juno Beach to Hobe Sound.

Seas and Greetings

It’s that time of year again! The weather is cooling, snook season is ending and the holidays are fast approaching. But before you reluctantly put down your rod, park your boat and brave the crowded storefronts, consider adding the environment to your gifting list. Here are some ideas to make your holidays green:
redfish

Stay Involved With Gulf Restoration Dollars

Vanishing Paradise On the water’s surface, the effects of the 2010 Gulf oil spill seem to be over. Most of …

FWC Updates

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.

Bonefish and Tarpon Trust, KeysKeeper, and the Lower Keys Guides Association Urge the FWC to Make Barracuda a Top Priority

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.

The Other Blue Crab

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.

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Read The June Issue!

Read the latest issue in your area!

12th Annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament May 29th – May 31st, 2026

The 12th Annual Skippers Dolphin Tournament returned to Key Largo May 29–31, 2026, bringing together anglers from across the region for an exciting weekend of offshore fishing, big payouts, dockside festivities, and Florida Keys camaraderie.

Retention Limit Adjustment: Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Angling Category Fishery

NOAA Fisheries is adjusting the Atlantic bluefin tuna daily retention limits for recreational fishermen. The adjusted limits will take effect June 1, 2026, and extend through December 31, 2026, unless modified by later action. NOAA Fisheries may need to take additional action later in the year to further adjust the retention limits or close the fishery.

Go Deep(er)

Think you need heavy conventional gear and 80-lb test to pull big grouper from the deep? Think again. Fishing the 350 to 500+ foot depth range requires a total shift in mindset. Out here, heavy structure isn't the challenge—finding the bait is. Discover why a 20-pound braid, advanced electronics, and a perfectly weighted squid jig are the ultimate secret weapons for targeting deep-water giants.