Rules

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reserves the right to deny any application to the Catch a Florida Memory - Saltwater Angler Recognition Programs and can change these rules at any time without notice. State laws prohibit false claims or fraud when claiming prizes.

To participate in Florida's Saltwater Angler Recognition Programs, all fish must be caught by the angler being recognized in accordance with the Florida saltwater recreational fishing regulations at the time of the catch. This includes, but is not limited to, the angler being properly licensed or using an approved exemption, as well as using legal gear and fishing in saltwater where the angler has legal access.

The FWC receives financial assistance from the Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The DOI prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex or disability. If you believe you have been discriminated against in any program, activity or facility or need more information, contact:  FWC, Office of Human Resources, 620 S Meridian St., Tallahassee, FL 32399, 850-488-6411, or:  Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Civil Rights, Dept. of the Interior, 1849 C St., NW, Washington, D.C. 20240.  

Contact AnglerRecognition@MyFWC.com or 850-487-0554 for questions regarding these programs.

• All submitted fish must have been caught by the angler applying for recognition.
• After a catch has been submitted by an angler and approved by staff it cannot be used to qualify a different angler for recognition.
• Fish can be either caught and released or legally harvested for these programs.
• Any photos containing nudity, violence, explicit language or sexually explicit content will be disqualified.
• Participants may not submit photos which have been digitally modified for any reason (other than protection of privacy) or photos that have been falsified in any way.
• All harvest of fish must comply with current regulations. Florida Saltwater Recreational Fishing Regulations may be found online or by calling 850-487-0554
• An undersized or out-of-season fish can qualify, as long as they are promptly and safely released and not harvested (as evidenced by submitted photos).
• Any past catches that meet the requirements are eligible, as long as the required photos and documentation are provided (does not apply to records program).
• Submitted photos must include the angler applying for recognition and show fish in whole condition with the exception of the removal of gills and guts.
• FWC reserves the right to deny any application to the Saltwater Angler Recognition Programs and can change these rules at any time without notice.
• State laws prohibit false claims or fraud when claiming prizes. Prizes are taxable and will be reported to the IRS as appropriate (please check with your tax advisor if you have any questions).
• Recognition will only be given to individual anglers, NOT groups. Do not apply for group recognition.
• Fish must be caught in Florida state waters, in U.S. federal waters extending directly outward of Florida state line boundaries, or landed in Florida.
• Anglers may receive up to 10 prize packages per calendar year for the same recognition, such as 10 of a particular Grand Slam or 10 of a particular Reel Big Fish species. After this threshold, anglers will receive certificates and website level recognition, but will not receive a prize package for those recognitions. Once a new calendar year begins, the count to reach the 10 recognition threshold starts over again.
• Current FWC employees, including OPS, are eligible for certificate and website recognition only (including State Records) and are not eligible to receive any additional awards or prizes including raffles.
• Your submissions to this program, including photos and other data provided to the Florida Saltwater Angler Recognition Program, constitute a release for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to use them without compensation or further notice for research, information and other public purposes, such as being posted on the FWC website or being used in FWC publications and promotional materials. When photographs are required, the proper fish handling techniques and photo rules below apply.
• Failure to abide by these rules can lead to disqualification of submissions and permanent removal from the Catch a Florida Memory Program. Depending upon the severity of the infraction, the FWC may choose to pursue legal action.

Proper Fish Handling Techniques for Photos:

• Anglers should handle their catch with wet hands only (do not use a towel), be careful not to poke fingers into eyes or gills and fully support the body weight of the fish by cradling it horizontally.
• If not held, fish should be photographed in a rubber-coated, knotless landing net rather than lying on a dock, cooler or boat deck.
• Measure length on a wet, cool surface. Do not place fish on hot, dry boat surfaces.
• Large fish that will not be harvested should not be removed from the water or boated, as this can injure the fish.
• Anglers' faces must be included in photographs and fish must be in an unobstructed position (side views are best) so that FWC staff can verify the species.
• For more catch-and-release techniques, see the following: Catch and Release Brochure, Fish Handling and Gear, or BonefishTarponTrust.org.
• It is preferred that anglers on vessels are photographed wearing personal floatation devices.

A Grand Slam is defined as the catch or catching and releasing of three specific saltwater fish species in a 24-hour period. The FWC updated the program in 2014 by creating nine Grand Slams, including a Small Fry Slam for children age 15 and under.

Saltwater Grand Slam Club Categories

• Inshore Grand Slam: red drum, spotted seatrout, flounder
• Family Grand Slam: Any three fish in the same family (i.e. red snapper, mutton snapper, lane snapper)
• Blue Water Grand Slam: dolphinfish, sailfish, wahoo
• Florida Grand Slam: permit, tarpon, bonefish
• Shoreline Grand Slam: sheepshead, kingfish (whiting), Florida pompano
• Reefs & Rubble Grand Slam: black sea bass, gag, gray triggerfish
• Nearshore Grand Slam: cobia, tripletail, king mackerel
• Bay & Estuary Grand Slam: gray (mangrove) snapper, snook, Spanish mackerel
• Small Fry Slam (15 and under): pinfish, grunt (any), catfish (any)

Submission Requirements for Grand Slams

• All Grand Slam catches, past and present, are eligible if they can be documented and have been caught in a 24-hour period in accordance with FWC rules.
• To participate, an angler must abide by the general FWC Saltwater Angler Recognition Program rules (see “General Angling Rules” above).
• Anglers do not have to harvest their fish to be eligible and are encouraged to release their catches alive.
• All harvest of fish must comply with current regulations. Florida Saltwater Recreational Fishing Regulations may be found online at MyFWC.com/Fishing or by calling 850-487-0554.
• Photographs of the angler with each fish are required and may be used in various FWC publications as well as on MyFWC.com. Fish photographed should be supported horizontally using wet hands with no fingers in the fish’s gills. If not held, fish should be photographed in a rubber-coated, knotless landing net rather than lying on a dock, cooler or boat deck. Large fish should not be removed from the water or boated, as this can injure the fish.
• Submissions that are incomplete or fail to provide full documentation of species required will result in disqualification.

Saltwater Grand Slam Recognition Tiers

• Tier 1: 3 different Grand Slams
• Tier 2: 6 different Grand Slams
• Tier 3: Grand Slam Master Angler – all 8 adult Grand Slams (anglers who catch the youth slam in addition to all 8 adult slams are eligible for bonus prizes)

Saltwater Grand Slam Club Prizes

• Each time an angler submits a valid Saltwater Grand Slam, they will receive a t-shirt, certificate of accomplishment, various FWC saltwater publications and will become a member of the corresponding Grand Slam Club. Anglers who are awarded at least three different Grand Slams will be recognized for Grand Slam Club Recognition Tiers for the opportunity to receive additional prizes. Successful participants will also receive one raffle entry for each verified submission to the program.
• To be eligible for prizes, anglers must comply with all rules for Saltwater Angler Recognition Programs and the Saltwater Grand Slam Program. Prizes typically arrive 4 to 8 weeks after approval (not submittal). All prizes are awarded pending availability. FWC reserves the right to deny any application for the Saltwater Grand Slam Program and to change recognition prizes at any time without notice.

The Florida Saltwater Fish Life List consists of 70 species of saltwater fish. To participate, an angler must abide by the general FWC Saltwater Angler Recognition Program rules (see “General Angling Rules”). All Life List catches are eligible as long as they can be documented and have been caught in accordance with FWC rules. Anglers do not have to harvest their fish to be eligible and are encouraged to release catches alive. All harvest of fish must comply with current regulations, available online at MyFWC.com/Fishing or by calling 850-487-0554. The Florida Saltwater Fish Life List publication lists the 70 species included in the program and allows anglers to record the species, date, size and location of Life List fish caught. Print your own Saltwater Fish Life List or request a printed Life List.

70 Species Included in the Saltwater Fish Life List Program

Saltwater Fish Life List Club Categories

• 10 Fish Club: 10 total different Life List species caught to date
• 30 Fish Club: 30 total different Life List species caught to date
• 50 Fish Club: 50 total different Life List species caught to date
• 70 Fish Club – Life List Master Angler: All 70 total Life List species caught to date

Submission Requirements for Life List Clubs

• Photographs of the angler with each fish are required and may be used in various FWC publications as well as on MyFWC.com. Fish photographed should be supported horizontally using wet hands with no fingers in the fish's gils or eyes. If not held, fish should be photographed in a rubber-coated, knotless landing net rather than lying on a dock, cooler or boat deck. Large fish should not be removed from the water or boated, as this can injure the fish.
• Submissions that are incomplete or fail to provide full documentation of species required will result in disqualification.

Prizes for Saltwater Fish Life List Club Anglers

• Each time an angler submits a valid application for a Saltwater Life List Fish Club, they will receive a certificate of accomplishment, various prizes, FWC saltwater publications and will become a member of the corresponding Life List Fish Club. Successful participants will also receive one raffle entry for each verified submission to the program.
• To be eligible for prizes, anglers must comply with all rules for Saltwater Angler Recognition Programs and the Saltwater Fish Life List Program. Prizes typically arrive 4 to 8 weeks after approval (not submittal). All prizes are awarded pending availability. FWC reserves the right to deny any application for the Saltwater Fish Life List Program and to change recognition prizes at any time without notice.

The Reel Big Fish program rewards anglers who catch a memorable-sized saltwater fish in 30 species categories. Youth age 15 and under are recognized for catching a fish that is 75 percent of the qualifying size for adults (see chart below for specific sizes and species).

Eligible Saltwater Fish Species and Minimum Qualifying Lengths

To determine the length of the fish, measure in a straight line from the tip of the snout to the back of the tail fin with the fin squeezed together for total length. For fish regulated by fork length, measure in a straight line from the tip of the snout to the center of the fork of the tail.

Submission Requirements

• To enter Saltwater Reel Big Fish catches, anglers must submit photo-documentation to show the species and length of their catch. To be eligible, the fish must be legally caught and meet or exceed the minimum qualifying length; length is maximum length in inches. See the Saltwater Reel Big Fish page for a listing of species and whether to measure by total length or fork length.
• The catch must be photographed over a qualifying tangible measuring device as well as in a photo with the angler who is applying for recognition. A qualifying measuring device is any length measuring device, such as a tape measure or ruler, where an accurate length measurement is clearly visible in the photograph and FWC staff can easily verify that the fish is over the required length. If the fish is longer than the length measuring device, then the verified length of the fish will be the maximum length shown on the device or the minimum qualifying length, whichever is greater. Photographs may be posted on the FWC website, in regulations booklets or in other FWC publications.
• If a submission is missing a photograph of the fish over a measuring device clearly showing that the qualifying length was met or exceeded, the angler may be awarded a Reel Big Fish Honorable Mention digital certificate (emailed to the angler). 
• All Saltwater Reel Big Fish catches are eligible as long as they can be documented and have been caught in accordance with FWC regulations. Anglers do not have to harvest their fish to be eligible and are encouraged to release their catches alive. All harvest of fish must comply with current regulations, available at MyFWC.com/Fishing or by calling 850-487-0554. Submissions that are incomplete or fail to provide full documentation of requirements will result in disqualification. 

Saltwater Reel Big Fish Recognition Tiers

• Tier 1: 5 different species
• Tier 2: 10 different species
• Tier 3: 20 different species
• Tier 4: Reel Big Master Angler – all 30 Reel Big Fish species

Prizes for Reel Big Fish Club Anglers

• Each time an angler submits a valid Saltwater Reel Big Fish Application, they will receive a t-shirt, certificate of accomplishment, various FWC saltwater publications and will become a member of the corresponding Saltwater Reel Big Fish Club. Anglers who reach at least five different Reel Big Fish species achievements (not including Honorable Mentions) will be recognized for Reel Big Fish Club Recognition Tiers for the opportunity to receive additional prizes. Successful participants will also receive one raffle entry for each verified submission to the program.
• If a submission is missing a photograph of the fish over a measuring device clearly showing that the qualifying length was met or exceeded, the angler may be awarded a Reel Big Fish Honorable Mention digital certificate instead (emailed to the angler). 
• To be eligible for prizes, anglers must comply with all rules for Saltwater Angler Recognition Programs and the Saltwater Reel Big Fish Program. Prizes typically arrive 4 to 8 weeks after approval (not submittal). All prizes are awarded pending availability. FWC reserves the right to deny any application for the Saltwater Reel Big Fish Program and to change recognition prizes at any time without notice.

Anglers become a Triple Threat Club member by successfully participating in all three Catch a Florida Memory programs: Saltwater Grand Slams, Saltwater Fish Life List and Saltwater Reel Big Fish. Anglers must have at least one approved recognition for each program. The Triple Threat Club encourages anglers to participate in all three Catch a Florida Memory programs, promoting long term engagement and catch diversity. Triple Threat Club anglers receive a long sleeve performance fishing shirt, plus the chance to win great prize giveaways like fish mounts, fishing gear and vacations. Anglers automatically become members of the Triple Threat Club once they have received recognition in all three Catch a Florida Memory programs (Saltwater Grand Slams, Saltwater Fish Life List and Saltwater Reel Big Fish). There is nothing additional anglers need to do to apply for the Triple Threat Club. Anglers will be notified when they become club members.

1. The raffle is being conducted by the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) corporation located at 2574 Seagate Drive, Suite 100, Tallahassee, FL 32301.
2. Winners of the raffle drawing are eligible to receive one of a number of prizes such as:
   • Fishing reels, courtesy of the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida.
   • Fillet knives, courtesy of Smith's Consumer Products.
   • Fish mounts courtesy of Mount this Fish Company.
   • Boat accessories courtesy of SeaDek.
   • Coolers courtesy of Engel Coolers.
   • Additional raffle prizes will be announced as items are donated.
3. Current employees of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are NOT ELIGIBLE to apply for or win any of the Catch a Florida Memory raffle prizes.
4. There is not cost to enter to win. Successful participants are automatically entered into the raffle.
5. To be eligible to win, participants' submissions must be verified by program staff by 4PM EST on the day prior to the raffle drawing.
6. Participants will receive one raffle entry for each verified submission made to the program in the last three years.
7. Participants who have won a Triple Threat Raffle in the last 18 months are not eligible for the monthly raffle.
8. Participants cannot win multiple raffle prizes within an 18-month period.
9. Winners are randomly drawn by 11AM EST on the third Thursday of every month.
10. Drawings are made by the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, Inc. using a computer program designed for random selection.
11. The raffle item won will be mailed to the participant's address on file or sent directly from the partner that provides the item.
12. Void where prohibited by law.
13. The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reserves the right to use photographs of and quotes from the winner in publications, website and video presentations. Each monthly raffle winner will be showcased on CatchaFloridaMemory.com and Facebook.com/CatchaFLMemory.
14. Raffle prizes are taxable and will be reported to the IRS as appropriate. Please check with your tax advisor if you have any questions.

81 Species Included in the Florida Saltwater Fishing Records Program

Amberjack, Greater

Barracuda, Great

Bass, Black Sea

Bass, Striped(Saltwater)

Bluefish

Bonefish

Bonito

Catfish, Gafftopsail

Catfish, Hardhead

Cobia

Croaker, Atlantic

Dolphinfish

Drum, Black

Drum, Red

Flounder

Grouper, Black

Grouper, Gag

Grouper, Goliath

Grouper, Nassau

Grouper, Red

Grouper, Warsaw

Grouper, Yellowfin

Grunt, White

Hind, Speckled

Hogfish

Jack, Almaco

Jack, Bar

Jack, Crevalle

Jack, Horse-Eye

Jack, Yellow

Kingfish(Whiting)

Ladyfish

Mackerel, Cero

Mackerel, King

Mackerel, Spanish

Margate, White

Marlin, Blue

Marlin, White

Permit

Pompano, African

Pompano, Florida

Porgy, Red

Runner, Blue

Runner, Rainbow

Sailfish, Atlantic

Scamp

Seatrout, Spotted

Shark, Blacktip

Shark, Bull

Shark, Dusky

Shark, Hammerhead

Shark, Lemon

Shark, Mako

Shark, Spinner

Shark, Thresher

Shark, Tiger

Shark, White

Sheepshead

Snapper, Cubera

Snapper, Gray

Snapper, Lane

Snapper, Mutton

Snapper, Red

Snapper, Schoolmaster

Snapper, Vermilion

Snapper, Yellowtail

Snook

Spearfish, Longbill

Swordfish

Tarpon

Tilefish, Blueline

Triggerfish, Gray

Tripletail

Tuna, Bigeye

Tuna, Blackfin

Tuna, Bluefin

Tuna, Skipjack

Tuna, Yellowfin

Tunny, Little

Wahoo

Weakfish

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) maintains state records  for marine fishes caught in Florida state waters or in federal waters extending directly outward of Florida state waters between latitude 30.712  in the Atlantic and longitude -87.518 in the Gulf of Mexico[NN1] . Records are maintained for the heaviest fish in all tackle, youth and fly-fishing categories, and for the longest fish for several species of the all tackle and youth categories.  Catches must follow Florida's fishing regulations, General Angling Rules and Florida Saltwater Fishing Records Program Rules.  Each catch may only qualify for one saltwater state record that must be designated on the application form.

• The angler is responsible for submitting a complete application form.
• Information for witnesses to the catch and weighing must be recorded on the application form.
• The angler's signature on a completed application form must be witnessed by a notary.

Weighing Requirements:

• The catch must be weighed using a certified scale on land. A certified scale is one that has been checked and certified for accuracy by government agencies or other qualified and accredited organizations. A valid scale certification number must be included on the application form.
• A witness must view the weighing and have their information recorded on the application form.
• Photographs clearly showing the weight on the scale must be submitted.
• Scale must be certified no more than 12 months prior to catch measurement.
• No estimated weights will be accepted. Fish must be weighed on land (fish weighed only at sea or on other bodies of water will not be accepted).
• The weight of any sling, platform, or rope used (if one is used to secure the fish on the scale) must be determined and deducted from the total weight.
• Only weights indicated by the graduations on the scale will be accepted. Visual fractionalizing of these graduations is not allowed. Any weights that fall between two graduations on the scale must be rounded to the lower of the two.

Minimum Weight Requirements:

• In order to qualify for a record, a catch must weigh a minimum of 1 pound (0.453 kg).
• To replace a record for a fish weighing less than 25 pounds (11.33 kg), the replacement must weigh at least 2 ounces (56.69 gm) more than the existing record.
• To replace a record fish weighing 25 pounds (11.33 kg) or more, the replacement must weigh at least one half of 1 percent more than the existing record. Examples: If the current record is 100 pounds (45.35 kg), the additional weight required would be 8 ounces (226.7 gm); if the current record is 200 pounds (90.71 kg), the additional weight required would be 1 pound (0.453 kg).

Length Category Requirements:

• The catch must be measured using a flat length measuring device with measurement increments clearly visible.
• The fish’s snout must be touching the nose stop or “0” line and free of lures or handling devices.
• With the fish lying on top of the measuring device, measurements must be taken from the most forward part of the fish’s closed snout to the rear center edge of the tail or the most posterior part of the fish’s pinched tail depending on the designated measurement for that species.
• All measurements will be officially recorded in inches to the nearest quarter of an inch, but may be submitted in inches or centimeters.
• Only lengths indicated by the graduations on the measuring device will be accepted. Visual fractionalizing of these graduations is not allowed.
• Fish that measure between quarter increments shall be recorded at the lower of the two increments. For example, a fish that measures between 45.75 inches (116.21 cm) and 46.0 inches (116.84 cm) will have a recorded length of 45.75 inches (116.21 cm).

Minimum Length Requirements:

• In order to qualify for a record, a catch must measure at least 10 inches (25.4 cm).
• To replace a record the replacement must be at least 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) greater than the existing record.

Species Identification:

• Submitted photographs should clearly show various views of the fish for identification purposes (see below for details).
• Species that are difficult to identify must be confirmed by a qualified fisheries biologist.
• A fisheries biologist does not need to identify the fish in-person unless there is a question of species identity (photographs will suffice in most cases).

Photograph Requirements for Weight Records:

• Photographs must accompany all record applications. Applications without photographs will not be accepted. To qualify for a record, photographs must be submitted clearly showing the following:
• Scale used to weigh the fish
• Weight displayed on the scale
• Fish being weighed on scale with weight visible if possible.
•  Gear used to make the catch
• Photo of valid scale certification
• Angler with their catch
• Fish in various views for identification purposes. Full-length side-view of the entire fish (the fins must be fully extended and not obscured with the hands).
• Side-view close-up of the head of the fish, from the tip of the mouth to the end of the pectoral fin (the jaw or bill must be clearly shown)
• Any other photos needed to accurately identify the species of the fish.
  Submitted photographs may be used in FWC materials and should show anglers using proper fish handling techniques and wearing personal floatation devices when aboard vessels.

Photograph Requirements for Length Records:

Photographs and/or a video must accompany all record applications. Applications without photographs and/or a video will not be accepted. To qualify for a record, photographs and/or videos must be submitted clearly showing the following:

• Fish on measuring device with measurements clearly visible
• Gear used to make the catch
• Angler with their catch
• Fish in various views for identification purposes
  •  Full-length side-view of the entire fish (the fins must be fully extended and not obscured with the hands)
  • Side-view close-up of the head of the fish, from the tip of the mouth to the end of the pectoral fin (the jaw or bill must be clearly shown)
  • Any other photos needed to accurately identify the species of the fish

Submitted photographs and/or videos may be used in FWC materials and should show anglers using proper fish handling techniques and wearing personal floatation devices when aboard vessels. 

Prizes for Florida Saltwater Fishing Records:

• Saltwater record-holders receive a certificate of accomplishment signed by the Director of FWC Marine Fisheries Management, a prize pack, recognition in various publications and a custom piece of art to memorialize their catch.

Adding New Eligible Record Species to the Program:

• When an additional fish species is made eligible for the Florida Saltwater Fishing Records program by FWC, an effective date will be announced.
• Only fish caught on or after the effective date will be eligible for records.

All-Tackle and Length for Adult and Youth

Equipment Regulations

1. Reels must comply with sporting ethics and customs.

2. Power- driven reels are acceptable under the following situations and configurations.

   a) Reels that have power accessories (e.g., electric drill attachments, motors or other power accessories specifically designed for a reel) that can be physically removed from the reel may be used strictly for the purpose of retrieving a deployed bait or lure at depth all the way to the boat.

   b) Power accessories may only be used to retrieve a bait or lure completely to the boat and are not permitted for adjusting the position of a bait or lure in the water column. Once a power accessory is attached to the reel, the bait or lure may no longer be legally used to catch a fish and the bait or lure must be retrieved all the way to the boat for manual redeployment before it may be legally used to hook or catch a fish. Power accessories may not be attached to the reel during the deployment of a bait or lure.

   c) Power accessories must be physically removed from the reel before the act of hooking or fighting a fish. Any fish that strikes a bait or lure being fished with a reel with power accessories still attached- whether or not under electric operation- will not be eligible for record consideration.

  d) Electric reels that do not have removable electronic components that allow them to be completely manually driven are prohibited.

3. Use of a rod belt, waist gimbal or fighting chair is permitted. 

4. Fighting chairs may not have any mechanically propelled devices that aid the angler in fighting a fish. Rod holders on fighting chairs may be used when hooking, fighting, or landing a fish.

5. Gimbals must be free swinging, which includes gimbals that swing in a vertical plane only. Any gimbal that allows the angler to reduce strain or to rest while fighting the fish is prohibited.

6. Gaffs (including flying gaffs), tail snares and nets used to boat or land a fish must not exceed 2.44 meters (8 feet) in overall length. In the case of tail snares, overall length is defined as the distance from the beginning of the handle to the apex of the snare when loaded. In using a flying or detachable gaff, the rope may not exceed 9.14 meters (30 feet). The gaff rope must be measured from the point where it is secured to the detachable head to the other end. Only the effective length will be considered. If a fixed head gaff is used, the same limitations shall apply and the gaff rope shall be measured from the same location on the gaff hook. Only a single hook is permitted on any gaff. Harpoons or lances are prohibited. Tail ropes are limited to 9.14 meters (30 feet). When fishing from a bridge, pier, or other high platform or structure, this length limitation does not apply.

7. Entangling devices, either with or without a hook, are prohibited and may not be used for any purpose including baiting, hooking, fighting, or landing the fish.

8. Outriggers, downriggers, spreader bars and kites are permitted to be used provided that the actual fishing line is attached to the snap or other release device, either directly or with some other material. The leader or double line may not be connected to the release mechanism either directly or with the use of a connecting device. Spreader bars are also acceptable when used strictly as a teaser.

9. Daisy chains, birds, floats and similar devices may only be used if they do not unfairly hamper or inhibit the normal swimming or fighting ability of the fish, thereby giving the angler or crew an unfair advantage in fighting, landing or boating the fish.

10. A safety line may be attached to the rod, reel or harness provided that it does not in any way assist the angler in fighting the fish.

11. Spearguns: The gun must be charged with muscle power only. Explosive or compressed power is prohibited.

12. Sling/Polespear: The spear must be charged by muscle power, the charge held in place by hand and released by hand release only, no mechanical trigger release or holding mechanism is allowed to be used or to be on the polespear or sling to store potential positive energy. Includes gear commonly known as sling, Hawaiian sling, polespear, three prong, etc.

13. Terminal gear: Trail line or reels are allowed. Floats of any size are allowed, provided they are solely propelled by the diver (i.e., no motors or any other mechanical means).

14. Divers must pull their fish to the surface while they remain in the water. Once the fish is subdued and at the surface, it may be gaffed by someone in a safety boat. 

15. Another diver or crew member may pass unloaded spearguns or sling/polespear to the diver, provided they and their associated gear follow the regulations set forth above for the primary gear and they do not assist the diver in any way to subdue their catch.

16. Powerheads: The use of powerheads for landing a fish submitted for a state record is prohibited. They may be carried by the diver for defense, but they may not be used to spear or subdue the target species being submitted.

Angling Regulations

1. From the time that a fish strikes or takes a bait or lure, the angler must hook, fight, and land or boat the fish without the aid of any other person, except as provided in these regulations.

2. If a rod holder is used, once the fish is hooked, the angler must remove the rod from the rod holder as quickly as possible with the exception of a fighting chair.

3. When angling from a boat, once the leader is brought within the grasp of the mate, or the end of the leader is wound to the rod tip, more than one person is permitted to hold the leader. Anyone assisting a shore­bound or wading angler must be within a rods length of the angler before touching the leader or netting or gaffing the fish.

4. One or more gaffers may be used in addition to persons holding the leader. The gaff handle must be in hand when the fish is gaffed.

5. Fish must be free-swimming, unrestricted by nets, traps, fishing lines (if spearing) or other devices.

6. Fish must not be in an artificial environment or marine protected biosphere such as penned-in bays, in close proximity to fish nets or fish rearing pens, or areas that are otherwise closed to fishing/spearfishing

7. Another diver may provide a second or additional unloaded gun to the spearfisher, provided they do not assist the diver in any way to subdue their catch.

8. The use of artificial light sources for night spearfishing is not allowed.  

9. The angling regulations shall apply until the fish is landed.

The following acts will disqualify a catch:

1. Failure to comply with above equipment or angling regulations.

2. The act of persons other than the angler in touching any part of the rod, reel, or line either bodily or with any device, from the time a fish strikes or takes the bait or lure, until the fish is either landed or released, or in giving any aid other than that allowed in the above angling and equipment regulations. If an obstacle to the passage of the line through the rod guides has to be removed from the line, then the obstacle (whether chum, rubber band, or other material) shall be held and cut free. Under no circumstances should the line be held or touched by anyone other than the angler during this process.

3. Resting the rod in a rod holder, on the gunwale of the boat, or any other object while playing the fish with the exception of fighting chairs.

4. Handlining or using a handline or rope attached in any manner to the angler's line or leader for the purpose of holding or lifting the fish.

5. Shooting, harpooning, or lancing any fish (including sharks) at any stage of the catch unless it is a legal and allowable harvest gear for the species.

6. Chumming with or using as bait the flesh, blood, skin, or any part of mammals other than hair or pork rind used in lures designed for trolling or casting.

7. Using a boat or device to beach or drive a fish into shallow water in order to deprive the fish of its normal ability to swim before the fish has been hooked or speared.

8. Changing the rod or reel while the fish is being played.

9. Splicing, removing, or adding to the line while the fish is being played.

10. Intentionally foul hooking a fish.

11. Catching a fish in a manner that the double line never leaves the rod tip.

12. Using bait that is illegal to possess.

13. Attaching the angler's line or leader to part of a boat or other object for the purpose of holding or lifting the fish.

14. If a fish escapes before gaffing or netting and is recaptured by any method other than as outlined in the angling regulations.

15. Holding or touching an angler in a manner that assists them in fighting the fish or takes pressure off of the angler. Touching or briefly holding the angler to prevent them from falling does not constitute a disqualification. 

The following situations will disqualify a catch:

1. Mutilation to the fish, prior to landing or boating the catch, caused by sharks, other fish, mammals, or propellers that remove or penetrate the flesh. Injuries caused by leader or line, scratches, old healed scars or regeneration deformities are not considered to be disqualifying injuries. Any mutilation on the fish must be shown in a photograph and fully explained in a report accompanying the record application.

2. When a fish is hooked or entangled on more than one line.

3. When a catch violates laws or regulations governing the species or the waters where it was caught.

4. FWC reserves the right to deny any application, including for improper handling. Visit MyFWC.com/Handling or BonefishTarponTrust.org for more best handling guidelines. 

Fly

Equipment Regulations 

1. Regardless of material used or number of sections, rods must conform and cast according to generally accepted fly fishing customs and practices. A rod shall not measure less than 1.82 meters (6 feet) in overall length and any rod that gives the angler an unsporting advantage will be disqualified. 

2. Leaders must conform to generally accepted fly fishing customs. A leader includes a class tippet and, optionally, a shock tippet. A butt or taper section between the fly line and the class tippet shall also be considered part of the leader and there are no limits on its length, material, or strength.

3. The reel must be designed expressly for fly fishing. There are no restrictions on gear ratio or type of drag employed except where the angler would gain an unfair advantage. Electric or electronically operated reels are prohibited.

4. Treble hooks are prohibited.

5. The fly must be a recognized type of artificial fly, which includes streamer, bucktail, tube fly, wet fly, dry fly, nymph, popper and bug. The use of any other type of lure or natural or preserved bait, either singularly or attached to the fly, is expressly prohibited. The fact that a fly can be cast with a fly rod is not evidence in itself that it fits the definition of a fly. The use of any fly designed to entangle or foul hook a fish is prohibited. No scent, either natural or artificial is allowed on flies. The use of scented material in a fly is prohibited.

6. Harpoons or lances are prohibited.

Angling Regulations 

1. The angler must cast, hook, fight, and bring the fish to gaff or net unaided by any other person. No other person may touch any part of the tackle during the playing of the fish or give aid other than taking the leader for gaffing or netting purposes. Anyone assisting a shore¬bound or wading angler must be within a rods length of the angler before touching the leader or netting or gaffing the fish. 

2. Casting and retrieving must be carried out in accordance with normal customs and generally accepted practices. The major criterion in casting is that the weight of the line must carry the fly rather than the weight of the fly carrying the line. Trolling a fly behind a moving water craft is not permitted. The craft must be completely out of gear both at the time the fly is presented to the fish and during the retrieve. The maximum amount of line that can be stripped off the reel is 36.75 meters (120 feet) from the fly. 

3. Once a fish is hooked, the tackle may not be altered in any way, with the exception of adding an extension butt. A harness cannot be attached to the fly rod. 

4. One or more people may assist in gaffing or netting the fish. 

5. The angling and equipment regulations shall apply until the fish is landed. 

The following acts will disqualify a catch: 

1. Failure to comply with equipment or angling regulations. 

2. The act of persons other than the angler in touching any part of the rod, reel, or line either bodily or with any device during the playing of the fish, or in giving any aid other than that allowed in the rules and regulations. If an obstacle to the passage of the line through the rod guides has to be removed from the line, then the obstacle shall be held and cut free. Under no circumstances should the line be held or touched by anyone other than the angler during this process. 

3. Handlining or using a handline or rope attached in any manner to the angler's line or leader for the purpose of holding or lifting the fish. 

4. Intentionally foul hooking or snagging a fish. 

5. Shooting, harpooning, or lancing any fish (including sharks) at any stage of the catch. 

6. Chumming with the flesh, blood, skin, or any part of mammals.

7. Using a boat or device to beach or drive a fish into shallow water in order to deprive the fish of its normal ability to swim before the fish has been hooked.

8. Attaching the angler's line or leader to part of a boat or other object for the purpose of holding or lifting the fish. 

9. If a fish escapes before gaffing or netting and is recaptured by any method other than as outlined in the angling rules. 

10. Holding or touching an angler in a manner that assists them in fighting the fish or takes pressure off of the angler. Touching or briefly holding the angler to prevent them from falling does not constitute a disqualification.

The following situations will disqualify a catch:

1. When a fish is hooked or entangled on more than one line. 

2. Mutilation to the fish, prior to landing or boating the catch, caused by sharks, other fish, mammals, or propellers that remove or penetrate the flesh. Injuries caused by leader or line, scratches, old healed scars or regeneration deformities are not considered to be disqualifying injuries. Any mutilation on the fish must be shown in a photograph and fully explained in a report accompanying the record application. 

3. When a catch violates laws or regulations governing the species or the waters where it was caught. 

4. FWC reserves the right to deny any application, including for improper handling. Visit MyFWC.com/Handling or BonefishTarponTrust.org for more best handling guidelines.