In 2014, Biscayne National Park (Park) released a management plan that many recreational anglers considered a “lock-out.” Despite a lack of scientific backing and state support, the Park designated a large area as a marine reserve that would have been closed to fishing.

Now, there is potentially good news on the horizon. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has worked with the Park to develop a new plan that would improve the condition of the Park’s fisheries without implementing the marine reserve.

But the proposal isn’t perfect and that’s why we need your help.

The draft proposal would require vessels transiting through the Park to adhere to the Park’s aggregate bag limits, regardless of where the targeted species were caught. Allowing for anglers to transit with bag and size limits from the area where fish were harvested may be a needed change for FWC to consider. FWC also needs angler feedback on baitfish, crab and law enforcement needs to monitor any new regulations.

While your support of the proposal is important, your input on the specifics is necessary too.