Conservation

Environmental and waterway news.

Latest in Conservation

Top of the Food Chain

Nature has a way of dictating what happens to its food webs. Things are constantly in flux, fish are moving in and out, and predators follow closely. It is the best game of cat and mouse. As a scientist, I am constantly amazed and also perplexed by how nature can be resilient at times to some things (storms, human presence), and extremely sensitive to others (changes in water quality, temperature, etc).

The Mighty Apalachicola – The Green River

The Apalachicola isn't just any estuary. This mighty river drains a watershed of nearly 20,000 square miles, much of which is not yet developed.

Scientists embark on lagoon seagrass transplant experiment

The St. Johns River Water Management District has launched an experiment to transplant seagrass from healthy beds to barren spots …

Stocking Program Aims To Increase Allatoona Largemouth Numbers

For decades the bass fishery at Lake Allatoona has been dominated by spotted bass. In a few years, anglers may see a welcome change because of a state program to stock largemouth bass in the Atlanta-area reservoir.

Angler Thoughts on Sharks in Florida – Survey!

I am currently researching the risks that face the shark populations in Florida waters, and I am very interested in obtaining the expertise and beliefs of fishers. To better understand this topic, I am conducting a survey of recreational anglers in the state of Florida. The survey will characterize your fishing style and interactions with sharks, and provide anglers the chance to voice their opinions on the future of management for sharks in Florida.

Regional Management: What it is, and What it isn’t

This year, at the urging of many groups and state agencies, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (GMFMC) is actively pursuing a change in management strategy for red snapper. Called “Regional Management” it would transfer to the states more flexibility in decisions regarding recreational harvest of this premier fish. This is certainly welcomed by most reef fish anglers, given the shrinking seasons and bag limits over the past decade.

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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.