To the Editor:
Whether it's the heart-pounding excitement and anticipation of the strike on a fly or a lure, or the thrill of a catch soon to be on your dinner table, the best place in the world to experience saltwater fishing opportunities is Florida - Fishing Capital of the World.
A proposal to create saltwater game fish and sport fish designations in Florida is about highlighting valuable recreational fish opportunities for today and future generations. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will consider adopting these designations at its Feb. 13 meeting in Orlando.
Article Photos
Ken Wright
It's important to keep this proposal in perspective.
These designations, while telling the angling world Florida is a premier sport-fishing destination, will also ensure recreational anglers can enjoy a traditional game fish for their table at home, and our commercial fishermen will continue to provide our world-famous Florida fish to tables around the world.
By creating these designations, we highlight our reputation, drawing visitors from across the globe to our diverse array of fishing opportunities. It shows the world recreational fishing in Florida is important to all of us.
Recreational saltwater fishing in Florida already has a $5.7-billion economic impact and supports more than 54,000 jobs. Fishermen will travel the world for that one special catch, so doesn't it make sense to invite them to Florida?
Adopting the designations will allow the Commission, to gather input from the public and our stakeholders to determine which species best fit each category.
When it comes to fishing, Florida holds more world records than any other state or country. Where else can you find great year-round fishing and such a wide array of species diversity?
Let's tell the rest of the world what residents already know: Florida's saltwater fishing is the best there is and worth showing off.
Kenneth Wright
chairman?
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
