FWC Seeks Input on Possible Changes to Permit, Pompano and African Pompano Regulations

BRADENTON -- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has scheduled a public workshop, using video and telephone conferencing, to hear what people think about possible rule changes for permit, pompano and African pompano. There will be several locations around the state where you can take part in the workshop via a videoconference connection, or you can participate via a voice-only telephone line.

The FWC is considering applying permit and pompano regulations in federal waters, adjacent to state waters, including the combined permit and pompano 6-fish daily recreational bag limit with an allowance of 1 fish over 20 inches fork length. The pompano and permit slot limit of 11-20 inches fork length, and allowable recreational fishing gear for these species.

The FWC is also considering allowing spearfishing for permit in federal waters, establishing a commercial trip limit of 250 fish per day and allowing pompano endorsement holders to use allowable gear for pompano to catch permit inside the pompano endorsement zone.

In addition, the FWC is considering applying African pompano size and bag limits and fishing gear restrictions in federal waters for all harvesters.  Spearfishing of African pompano in federal waters is also being considered.

The FWC encourages interested persons to attend the workshop at one of the videoconferencing sites listed below or via voice-only telephone line on Monday, July 12 from 6-9 p.m. EDT (5-8 p.m. CDT in Panama City). Contact the FWC at 850-487-0554 to confirm which of the locations you plan to go to, or to find out how to join the meeting via the voice-only line.