Conservation News

FWC proposes catch-and-release only for bonefish



The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) proposed draft rules on Wednesday that would allow only catch-and-release fishing for bonefish, a premier saltwater game fish in Florida. The proposed rules would also establish new provisions regarding the possession of bonefish by anglers and the possession and transport of bonefish during bonefish fishing tournaments.

“Bonefish are an extremely valuable Florida game fish,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “These proposed rules will further protect bonefish populations in South Florida, while providing anglers with opportunities to document a record catch and enjoy the exciting action of bonefish fishing tournaments.”

Bonefish are prized by anglers because they are stealthy, fast-swimming fish that are exciting and challenging to catch. South Florida is one of the few places in the United States where anglers can fish for bonefish, and the shallow saltwater flats of the Florida Keys and Biscayne Bay are considered a world-class destination for catching large, trophy-sized bonefish. A recent study by scientists at the University of Miami estimated the value of a single bonefish in the Florida Keys to be $3,500 each year, and nearly $75,000 over the lifespan of the fish.

Based on bonefish’s economic value as a game fish, the FWC’s proposed draft rules would eliminate the one-fish daily bag limit for bonefish and allow only catch-and-release fishing. Most anglers already release the bonefish they catch as a conservation measure.

The proposed rules would also allow anglers to temporarily possess a bonefish where it is caught, so they can photograph and measure or weigh the fish to document a possible record catch. In addition, the proposed rules would allow anglers participating in specially permitted tournaments to temporarily possess and transport bonefish to tournament check-in stations for weigh-in under specified conditions. These fish would still have to be carefully handled and eventually released.

More information regarding the FWC’s bonefish draft rule proposal is available online at MyFWC.com/Commission, linked from the Feb. 23-24 meeting agenda, and a final public hearing on these rule proposals will take place in April.

Spring in Biscayne Bay

Winter is finally fading away and the warmer air of spring is approaching. I am excited! The bones and permit have been active and this day was no exception. My good friend Grant gave me an opportunity to take the bow for a bit and boy did I enjoyed the experience. We started off by having a great shot at a monster permit of fly but it was not to be. Then two shots on fly to two big bones, same disappointing outcome. My turn was up and Grant took full advantage. One school came by, he took his shot and the fish milled around his shrimp, but no takes. Are you kidding me?! Next school moves through and this time he connects.

After a brisk fight and a healthy release I take the bow. Just a few minutes later, another school moves through and I take my shot, same outcome and we have two bones in the boat.

A couple of schools too far away later we move on. After a checking out a couple of other areas we call it a day fully enjoying our 3-4 hours on the water. Things will continue to heat up as long as the water temps do also. Get out there and enjoy it!

By the way, check out my new website!
www.MiamiBonefishing.com


Capt. Mo Estevez
www.MiamiBonefishing.com
786-853-1409

Biscayne Bay Report

Winter is fading away and spring is making its way towards us, what a relief! With the air temperature being in the high 70's to low 80's over the weekend, water temperatures rising and strong tides, the fishing has been very good. Bones are eating flies and shrimp well on both sides of Biscayne Bay, oceanside and west side, and some permit are being caught as well. Night time tarpon fishing has been good as they take advantage of the the strong tides flushing large shrimp out of Biscayne Bay. Government Cut and Haulover inlet have both been producing, some nights 5-7 fish pushing the 100lb range. We'll have some nice weather for the next few days including some early morning rising tides which will have the bonefish tailing. What a sight that always is! That's it for now. Give me a call if you want to experience Biscayne Bay for yourself.

Capt. Mo Estevez
www.MiamiBonefishing.com
786-853-1409