Just out from the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust –
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission voted unanimously to pass the Boca Grande jig ban at its September 5th meeting in Pensacola by a 7-0 vote. The jig issue has been hotly debated over the past few years between bait and jig fishermen. The final vote was passed relatively quickly and with little opposition, as most people present at this meeting spoke in favor of the ban. Bonefish and Tarpon Trust is grateful to former FWC Chairman Key
Wright, current Chairman Dick Corbett and all the commissioners for taking these important steps to protect tarpon. The new regulations add language that enhances the definition of “snagging” or “snatch hooking” that applies statewide, and prohibits the use and possession of gear rigged with a bottom-weighed hook in Boca Grande Pass.
Bonefish and Tarpon Trust previously spoke out in favor of the ban and is grateful to the many BTT members and other tarpon conservation groups who voiced their support. BTT’s Dr. Aaron Adams once again attended the meeting and gave his opinion about why the jig should be banned. The Boca Grande Pass-Charlotte Harbor estuary is a unique place and an essential pre-spawn and post-spawn area for adult tarpon in the area. It appears that the vertical jigging method alters tarpon behavior as they are gathered in their pre and post-spawn groups, which could have detrimental long-term effects on tarpon populations.
