FWC changes bass fishing rules in Alachua lakes to ‘make Florida the undisputed trophy bass capital of the world’
ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has given the nod to a set of new regulations aimed at bolstering the conservation of trophy bass, following deliberations during its February meeting.
Among the sanctioned regulations are alterations to largemouth bass fishing protocols for specific water bodies, notably Lochloosa, Orange, and Newnans lakes located in Alachua County.
In accordance with the newly approved guidelines, anglers are prohibited from killing or possessing any black bass measuring 20 inches or more in total length within these designated water bodies. Furthermore, the regulations mandate the use of circle hooks when employing natural baits exceeding 3 inches in length. Circle hooks, characterized by their unoffset point turned perpendicular to the shank, are designed to adopt a circular or oval shape.
“Florida bass necessitate favorable genetics and waterbody conditions to thrive over an extended period,” remarked FWC Commissioner Gary Lester. “Orange Lake, with its distinct fluctuations in water levels, provides an optimal environment for bass to attain remarkable sizes.”
The Florida Trophy Bass Project is the FWC’s new initiative with the goal of Florida being the undisputed Trophy Bass Capital of the World.
These freshwater fishing regulations align with the agency’s overarching endeavor to foster the growth of larger trophy bass statewide and facilitate the realization of maximum growth potential for bass populations inhabiting the aforementioned lakes.
Central to the FWC’s vision is the Florida Trophy Bass Project, which aspires to position Florida as the unrivaled Trophy Bass Capital of the World.
FWC personnel are dedicated to the cultivation, documentation, and promotion of trophy bass, alongside efforts to enhance opportunities for anglers to reel in Florida’s most substantial catches.
To learn more about the Florida Trophy Bass Project, visit MyFWC.com/TrophyBass
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