Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability
Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability

Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Freshwater Fisheries Management

For assistance, call 850-617-9517 or visit https://myfwc.com/about/inside-fwc/ffm/

What is the purpose of the program?

The commission's Freshwater Fisheries Management Program manages, enhances, and conserves Florida's freshwater aquatic life for public benefit.

What services are provided by the program?

The program's services include
  • evaluating resource conditions to determine goals for freshwater fisheries;
  • using management strategies to conserve or improve freshwater fish species;
  • maintaining fish management areas to provide quality fishing opportunities; and
  • producing and rearing freshwater sport fish for stocking into public waters to improve recreational fishing.

What is a fish management area?

Fish management areas include ponds, lakes, or other bodies of water established for the management of freshwater fish. The program works cooperatively with local governments to manage about 80 water bodies throughout the state that are designated as Fish Management Areas. Examples include most urban fishing lakes and commission-constructed impoundments. In many cases, these lakes are stocked with channel catfish, largemouth bass, and sunshine bass. A freshwater fishing license is required for Fish Management Area lakes.

What is the condition of Florida's freshwater fish species?

The commission reported that 89% of lakes sampled had stable or increasing freshwater fish populations in Fiscal Year 2021-22.

How are these activities funded?

Fiscal Year: 2023-24
Fund Dollars Positions
PROGRAM: FRESHWATER FISHERIES
FRESHWATER FISHERIES MANAGEMENT
7,698,458
59.00
TOTAL
7,698,458
59.00

Updates

TrophyCatch. The commission’s TrophyCatch program reached its 11th anniversary of operation. TrophyCatch is a citizen-science conservation program that rewards anglers for documenting and submitting trophy-size largemouth bass 8 pounds and greater. The data obtained through angler submitted catches provides important information used to assist the commission on research and management of largemouth bass populations statewide. Through April 2023, approximately 14,000 trophy size largemouth bass have been submitted and accepted into TrophyCatch. Of these, 136 of these submissions are 13 pounds or greater.

Where can I find related OPPAGA reports?

A complete list of related OPPAGA reports is available on our website.

Where can I get more information?

What are the applicable statutes?

Chapter 379 and s. 20.331, Florida Statutes

Whom do I contact for help?

Thomas Graef, Director, Freshwater Fisheries Management, 850-617-9517, email: Thomas.Graef@myfwc.com
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