A seasonal fishing closure will take effect at Western Dry Rocks, starting on April 1st and lasting through July 31st.
This closure aims to protect multi-species fish spawning aggregations in the area. During this period, all fishing activity is prohibited within a 1-square-mile area near Western Dry Rocks.
READ: Florida Gas Prices Fluctuate, Remain Below Yearly High
The closed area is defined by the following coordinates:
- 24°26.217’N, 81°57.007’W
- 24°25.676’N, 81°57.002’W
- 24°25.686’N, 81°55.489’W
- 24°26.227’N, 81°55.493’W
Western Dry Rocks, located about 10 miles southwest of Key West, is a crucial spawning site for various recreationally and commercially significant fish species, including snapper, grouper, and permit.
This seasonal no-fishing closure, combined with other traditional management methods like size and bag limits, is part of a comprehensive conservation strategy. The goal is to sustain and enhance fish populations by providing added protection for spawning fish while still allowing fishing access for the majority of the year.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
