In the state of Florida, recreational anglers who intend to fish for or harvest certain reef fish species from a private vessel are required to obtain the State Reef Fish Angler designation. This designation, which was expanded statewide in July 2020, replaced the previous Gulf Reef Fish Survey (GRFS) that was limited to Florida’s Gulf waters.
What is the State Reef Fish Angler Designation?
The State Reef Fish Angler designation is a no-cost permit that anglers must obtain if they plan to fish for or harvest the following reef fish species in Florida:
mutton snapper
yellowtail snapper
hogfish
red snapper
vermilion snapper
gag grouper
red grouper
black grouper
greater amberjack
lesser amberjack
banded rudderfish
almaco jack
gray triggerfish
Signing up for the designation is easy and can be done online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or anywhere fishing licenses are sold. Even anglers who are exempt from purchasing a fishing license, such as those 65 and older or Florida residents on military leave, must obtain the State Reef Fish Angler designation annually.
Why was the State Reef Fish Angler Designation Created?
The State Reef Fish Angler designation was created to improve recreational data collection for several important reef fish species in Florida. Prior to its implementation, there was a low level of confidence in the data used to assess and manage reef fish stocks. The GRFS, and now the expanded State Reef Fish Survey, uses an “approved data stream” collection method that relies on anglers to provide accurate information about their fishing trips and catch.
By participating in the survey, anglers help paint a clearer picture of how many people are targeting reef fish and what they are seeing and harvesting on the water. This data is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of recreational fishing in Florida and improving stock assessments for reef fish species.
What if I Have a Gulf Reef Fish Angler Designation?
If you already have a Gulf Reef Fish Angler designation, it will fulfill the statewide requirement of the State Reef Fish Angler designation until your Gulf designation expires, even if you are fishing on the Atlantic coast. However, once your Gulf designation expires, you will need to obtain the State Reef Fish Angler designation if you plan to continue fishing for or harvesting reef fish in Florida waters.
It’s important to note that the State Reef Fish Angler designation is not required for everyone. Anglers fishing from licensed charter, headboat, or party boat vessels, or with a licensed for-hire guide, are exempt from the requirement. Additionally, anglers under the age of 16 are not required to obtain the designation.
How Can I Participate in the State Reef Fish Survey?
As a State Reef Fish Angler, you may be selected to participate in the State Reef Fish Survey, which consists of a monthly mail survey and a dockside intercept survey. If selected, it’s crucial that you provide accurate and honest answers to the best of your ability. Your participation is essential for providing the data needed to properly assess and manage Florida’s reef fish stocks.
In addition to participating in the survey, anglers can also contribute to the success of the State Reef Fish Angler program by encouraging other anglers to sign up for the designation and participate in the survey when selected. By working together, anglers can help ensure that Florida’s reef fish populations remain healthy and abundant for generations to come.