If you live in the state of Florida or plan to visit soon, it’s important to know which fish you can and can’t eat. There are a number of species of fish in Florida that are off-limits due to safety concerns or conservation laws. Understanding the rules can help you ensure that you are making wise choices when it comes to seafood.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulates the harvest of various species of fish. Some species are completely off-limits, while others are subject to size and/or catch limits. It’s important to know the rules and regulations of the species you are interested in harvesting or eating.
The most common species of fish in Florida that is completely off-limits is the red snapper. This species is overfished and close to depletion. Other species that are off-limits include grouper, sea bass, cobia, hogfish, and amberjack. It is also illegal to harvest or possess certain species of sharks.
In addition to species off-limits for harvest, there are also certain types of fish that should not be eaten due to safety concerns. In general, eating large predators such as barracuda, shark, and king mackerel is not recommended because of their potential to contain high levels of mercury. Eating any fish that appears to be diseased or otherwise unhealthy is also not recommended.
Following the rules and regulations set forth by the FWC is the best way to ensure that you are eating safe, healthy, and sustainable seafood. Knowing which fish you can and can’t eat in Florida can help you make wise choices and reduce your environmental impact.
Eating Safe Fish In Florida: What To Avoid
Florida is home to some of the best seafood in the world. But it is also home to some of the most dangerous fish to eat. In order to protect yourself and your family from becoming seriously ill, you need to know which fish to avoid when eating in Florida.
The most common fish to avoid in Florida are barracuda, king mackerel, and shark. All of these fish can contain high levels of mercury, which can be dangerous if consumed in large amounts. Additionally, barracuda, king mackerel, and shark can have high levels of ciguatoxin, which can cause a wide range of illnesses.
Red snapper, grouper, and amberjack are some of the most commonly consumed fish in Florida. While these fish can contain low levels of mercury and ciguatoxin, they should still be eaten in moderation. Eating too much of these fish can still result in adverse health effects.
In order to ensure that you and your family are eating safe fish in Florida, it is important to purchase fish from reputable sources. This means buying from local fish markets, seafood restaurants, or online seafood retailers that can provide information about where the fish came from. Additionally, it is important to be familiar with the local fish advisories issued by the Florida Department of Health to make sure you are eating fish that is safe to eat.
The table below provides a list of fish to avoid in Florida.
| Fish | Reason |
|---|---|
| Barracuda | High levels of mercury and ciguatoxin |
| King mackerel | High levels of mercury and ciguatoxin |
| Shark | High levels of mercury and ciguatoxin |
By following these tips and avoiding the fish listed above, you can ensure that you and your family are eating safe, healthy fish while in Florida.
What Types Of Fish You Should Not Eat In Florida?
When fishing in Florida, you may be wondering what types of fish you should not eat. The fish that you should not eat in Florida vary depending on the type of water, the region and the season. Some of the most commonly caught fish that should not be eaten in Florida are Goliath Grouper, Nassau Grouper, Red Drum, Shark, Tarpon, and some species of Snapper.
Goliath Grouper are found in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. They are very large fish that can grow up to 8 feet in length and weigh up to 800 pounds. It is illegal to fish for them in Florida and they should not be eaten as they have high levels of mercury.
Nassau grouper are found in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. They are a protected species in Florida so it is illegal to fish for them and they should not be eaten. They are slow-growing fish and have a lifespan of up to 20 years.
Red drum are found in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. They are a popular sport fish in Florida but they should not be eaten due to their high levels of mercury. They can grow up to 8 feet in length and weigh up to 80 pounds.
Shark is found in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Sharks are very important to the ecosystem but they should not be eaten due to their high levels of mercury. Sharks can grow up to 12 feet in length and weigh up to 500 pounds.
Tarpon are found in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. They are a popular sport fish in Florida but they should not be eaten as they have high levels of mercury. Tarpon can grow up to 8 feet in length and weigh up to 200 pounds.
Some species of snapper are found in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. They are a popular fish to eat in Florida but some species should not be eaten due to their high levels of mercury. Examples of snapper that should not be eaten include yellowtail snapper, black spot snapper, and mutton snapper.
When fishing in Florida, it is important to know what types of fish you should not eat. Eating fish with high levels of mercury can cause health problems so it is important to know which fish to avoid. If you are unsure, it is always best to consult with a local fisheries expert for advice.
In Florida, you must possess a valid fishing license to legally fish and certain species of fish have size and bag limits.
Some endangered species of fish in Florida are the shortnose sturgeon, smalltooth sawfish, and giant sea bass.
Some species of fish that cannot be consumed in Florida include the largemouth bass, red drum, and certain species of sharks.
You can only consume shellfish from designated areas and you must be prepared to show documentation of your catch.
The size limit for consumption of certain species of fish in Florida is determined by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
It is illegal to catch any species of wild American alligator, sea turtles, or any species of sturgeon in Florida.
In Florida, all catch and release fishing must follow certain regulations, including not removing fish from the water, not using barbed hooks, and returning the fish to the water as quickly as possible.
Recreational fishing in Florida requires a valid fishing license, and certain species of fish have size and bag limits.
Yes, certain types of gear including nets, seines, and traps are restricted in Florida.
The best time to fish in Florida is in the morning or evening when the water is cooler and the fish are more active.