Conservation

Environmental and waterway news.

Latest in Conservation

Boating Tips for the Environment

In general, I find folks who own boats are responsible. Owning and running a boat requires some serious responsibility. Otherwise, being careless will quickly lead to major problems that can end your life or your boating hobby.

FWC Update: Changes to Swordfish Management Approved

On November 21, several changes to the recreational and commercial management of swordfish in state waters were approved by the …

Santa Claus Must Ice Fish

I was fortunate to spend November cruising on the Southern Ocean, so because we highlight frozen oceans during December at …

Buoy oh Bouyancy: November is Manatee Awareness Month

The Florida state marine mammal is unlike its very distant relatives, the great whales. They have very dense bones and …

Buoy oh Bouyancy: November is Manatee Awareness Month

Natural history articles about land animals always include their ranges – where the animal can be found. This information is …

Rivers Coalition to Benefit from Inaugural Stuart Seafood Festival

The impact of Lake Okeechobee freshwater discharges upon the St. Lucie River has severely impacted the Treasure Coast’s environment and …

Popular This Month

Outfitting Your Boat for Offshore Fishing

Outfitting a boat for offshore fishing can feel overwhelming, but prioritizing safety, education, and reliable equipment is key to success. From investing in quality safety gear and electronics to choosing versatile tackle and learning from experienced boaters, the right preparation helps reduce risk and maximize your time on the water. Check out some great tips here!

Lake Calcasieu—the Model Estuary

Lake Calcasieu, known as “Big Lake,” stands out as a model estuary thanks to its rich blend of river flow and surrounding marshes that create an incredibly fertile ecosystem. This nutrient-driven system supports thriving populations of speckled trout, redfish, and flounder, making it one of the most productive and sought-after fisheries on the Gulf Coast.

The Evolution of Tackle

This article explores the deep historical roots of fishing gear, revealing that basic tools like hooks and rods date back thousands of years to ancient civilizations like Egypt and China. It traces the transition from primitive materials—such as shell hooks and horsehair lines—to modern innovations like fiberglass rods, monofilament lines, and precision-engineered reels. Ultimately, the piece highlights how today's high-tech tackle is a refined evolution of original concepts driven by advanced engineering and new materials.

Don’t Think About This the Next Time You Go Fishing

Fishing is full of quirky superstitions—from “no bananas on the boat” to the dreaded first-cast curse—but whether rooted in history or just habit, they all shape how we experience a day on the water. In the end, belief or not, every angler knows there’s always one more chance… the last cast.

Submit Your Photo

Owen’s First Wahoo

41”snook

20 inch sheepshead

ELLE with a snook