The Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission is currently considering changing laws regarding pompano, the popular saltwater game fish. Populations of pompano have been decreasing due to over-fishing, so the FWCC is considering raising the size limit to a minimum of 11 inches and decreasing the bag limit from 10 to six fish per angler.

In a recent FWCC survey, more than half of pompano fisherman felt that the condition of the pompano fishery is getting worse. As a result, the FWCC is holding workshops where fishermen can talk to the commission about changes in regulations to aid in the recovery of the pompano.

The proposed increase in size limit and reduction of bag limit is a reflection on what anglers are already doing. More than half of the fishermen surveyed only keep pompano when they are greater than 12 inches, and 60 percent keep only one fish per trip.

The commission’s goal is to reduce overall landings of pompano by ten percent by reducing both recreational and commercial catches. The FWCC will meet in September to consider its management options for the pompano.

Of those anglers surveyed, 46 percent favored reducing the aggregate bag limit, while 54 percent favored both reduction of bag limit as well as increasing the minimum size. The proposed changes will also affect the permit, a close relative of the pompano.

For additional information contact the FWCC or call Lee Schlesinger at 850-487-0554 for information on the pompano workshops.