The invasive Indo-Pacific lionfish has moved onto our near-shore reefs, into our inlets and is taking over our Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River. This fish multiplies quickly, reaches reproductive age much faster than our native species, and eats nearly everything in sight.
On Saturday, June 9 and Sunday, June 10, Captain Don’s Treasure Coast Lionfish Safari will take place at Veterans Memorial Park, 600 N. Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce, FL 34950.
“This year our sixth annual event is named in honor of Capt. Don Voss, a founding committee member of the Treasure Coast Lionfish Safari and hero for our oceans, who passed in September 2017,” said Treasure Coast Lionfish Safari committee member Nyla Pipes.
During this event, registered teams can take lionfish without a permit in any waters within Indian River, St Lucie and Martin counties. Boat captains, fishermen and divers from throughout Florida and beyond are welcome to register for cash prizes, which total up to $3,000.
The Captain’s meeting and kickoff party will be held Friday, June 8 at 5:30 p.m. at Sailfish Brewery, Fort Pierce, located at 130 N. 2nd Street, Fort Pierce, with the safari commencing at sunrise on Saturday, June 9.
There will be winning categories for teams bringing in the most, largest and smallest lionfish. Non-divers are invited to join the fun by watching the competition weigh-in (both Saturday and Sunday), enjoying the live music and vendor offerings, tasting lionfish, and viewing kid’s art projects throughout the event.
Safari registration fees are $40 for individuals or $125 for a team (up to 4 divers per team).
For more information, including sponsorship opportunities, vendor space, tournament schedule, entry fees, and rules, please visit www.TreasureCoastLionfishSafari.com or follow the Treasure Coast Lionfish Safari Facebook page.
