Flordia Keys Sea grass collection???

[Black71gp]

I am currently on vacation in the keys and was wondering if anyone had any info on the collection permits needed or anything for some sea grass or mangrove pods.. they are all over the place. .alot of free floating stuff as well.. i figure i would like to collect some to take home and save some money on shipping.... anyone got any ideas or anything.. only here untill friday morning...

 

[ClamIAm]

I'm pretty sure it's illegal to take mangrove pods in Florida. My guess is you need a fishing license for seagrass but I'm not sure if that's even legal either. Hopefully someone from Florida can help you out.

 

[graveyardworm]

I cant say for sure, but I think you need a fishing liscence and you can only collect in areas which arent restricted. Check with the local Fish and Game Dept they'll have all the answers.

 

[Black71gp]

thanks i will have to call them tomorrow

 

[burblerboy]

Be very careful about anything you may collect in the Keys. I think seagrass is OK to take as long as your not in one of the parks or underwater sanctuaries, which is almost all of the keys everywhere. check on www.myfwc.com you will have to do some searching, but the info should be there, also marine patrol which are everywhere down there can be real pr**ks, they are very quick to try and arrest as well as fine anyone you will have to prove that it is OK to take the specific species you have in your hand/bag. It would be a good idea to have a copy of what is acceptable to take as well as an ID book/guide of some sort. Our local club FMAS has a club forum here with a lot of people that go down to collect stuff, and there is always horror stories that come up. You may check it out, post there to get a local perspective etc. everyone there is real nice/helpful and they will probably tell you exactly where to and not to go. Hope this helps.
josh

 

[Black71gp]

Thanks I talked to a few people... got a 3 day fishing license and everything is set..>!!!! thanks again...

 

[graveyardworm]

Make ssure to get some pics of what you collect so we can all see.