Attention Florida Fisherman!
State wildlife officials are now offering incentives for the removal of lionfish from Florida waters.
The species is native to the South Pacific and Indian Oceans—originating in Northern Australia and the coasts of Eastern Africa. In recent years, their numbers have grown tremendously, and the species have can now be found in the Gulf of Mexico and along Florida’s coastline. This invasive species have wreaked havoc on area wildlife, causing issues for fisherman, divers and various species of marine life.
What Do They Look Like?
The species found in South Florida is very noticeable in the water —with red and white stripes running vertically down its body, and long pectoral fins on both sides, the fish gives off a very clear message to swimmers and even other fish to stay away. Lionfish have large, venomous spines of varying lengths along their bodies, which they use as their primary form of protection.
How Did They Get Here?
Lionfish commonly are used in aquariums as their beautiful colors and interesting physique offers a certain aesthetic that is desirable, however, importation and breeding of lionfish are illegal. As with many other animals, after a period of time, owners sometimes “let them go” if they prove problematic or are unable to be cared for. Once the fish are released, they begin to rapidly reproduce, and the warm waters and coastal reefs offer them sanctuary and quite a hearty meal plan.
According to Kurt Ingeman, lionfish have been known to hunt their prey “literally to extinction,” largely feeding on snapper and sea bass. A commercial fisherman in the area, who asked to remain anonymous, stated in recent years he has seen the population grow immensely from that of past years. “They reproduce so quickly, now that the FWC has given us the green light, it’s hard to even make a dent. People didn’t know they could eat them until a few years ago and even then, it’s an uphill battle.”
FWC Chairman Brian Yablonski. “Those that remove lionfish not only get rewarded for their efforts, but they also get the experience of helping manage Florida’s fisheries. In addition, involving Florida’s residents and visitors helps us gather better data to continuously evaluate and improve our approach to invasive species control.”
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, or FWC, has offered an extra incentive to the person who kills the most lionfish either during tournaments or lionfish checkpoints starting May 16th, which is Lionfish Removal and Awareness Day, and goes until September 30th . Qualified participants will be entered into drawings to win prizes, such as fishing licenses, dive tank refills at local dive shops and fuel cards from participating locations.
According to FWC guidelines, a recreational fishing license is not required for those targeting only lionfish, however, certain gear is required. Fisherman may use hook and line, pole spear, handheld net, a Hawaiian sling or any other product that is designed and marketed for lionfish.
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