Fishing

As the recreational fishery chips away at shark populations outside the boundaries of scientists’ data books — and as a new constitutional amendment loosens restrictions on anglers across the state — Florida faces an uncertain future for sustainable shark management. In Part II of this three-part series, The Marjorie embeds with recreational and commercial fishermen to parse through the industries’ varied interactions with and attitudes toward sharks.

Sharks are more sought-after than ever. Yet, recreational anglers have become increasingly irate toward these species, complaining that too many of them are eating their hooked catch. Meanwhile, the diving industry says they are more valuable alive than dead. In Part III of this three-part series, The Marjorie journeys across the state of Florida exploring a crucial question: Where do sharks fit into Florida’s future?

Sharks worldwide are imperiled by overfishing. Yet experts disagree on whether policies in Florida and the U.S. aimed at protecting sharks have in fact done the opposite. In Part I of this three-part series, The Marjorie investigates how a federal ban on shark fins shrunk a commercial fishery and satisfied shark advocates — but did little to curb shark deaths.

The last day to buy a discounted fishing or hunting license is Jan. 3.

As major dams are taken down in other parts of the country, Florida holds tight to its dams and reservoirs, some aging and putting nearby residents and homes at risk.

This week on The Florida Roundup, we featured two reports from the podcast Sea Change, from WWNO/WRKF in Louisiana. WLRN's Jenny Staletovich explored how hotter oceans are affecting the mahi. Then, WUSF's Jessica Meszaros examined the rising cost of climate risk on Florida's home insurance market. After, we spoke with Jenny and Jessica about their reporting.

Gov. DeSantis signs order making many hunting and fishing licenses 50% off through Jan. 3.

About 67% of voters supported what appeared on the ballot as Amendment 2 and was titled “Right to Fish and Hunt.” Constitutional amendments need support from 60 percent of voters to pass.

Supporters of the measure have raised significantly more money than opponents, and political experts think the proposal likely will receive the required support of 60% of voters to pass.

The money will go toward rebuilding boat slips, fish houses, and other areas in the fishing industry.

Amendment 2 is largely backed by hunting and fishing groups and charter captains. Amendment 2 is opposed by environmental groups and some homeowners are worried about increased trespassing

Largemouth bass in Florida are now their own species, and bear a different name: The Florida bass.