Wild Fish/Coral Harvesting

[drummerkid97]

I was wondering if there are any laws, permits, and regulations on taking certain fish/coral from the wild. I've dived in certain places where you cant take anything, but all the wild caught fish have to be coming from somewhere. As a scuba diver I see plenty of fish/coral that is highly sought after in the reefing community. Anyone have experience/knowledge on this?

 

[Phil D.]

Due to conservation laws, you would need a permit to collect from the wild.

 

[Sump Crab]

Depends on the country. Here in FL, USA you can harvest some corals and reef fishes with the proper fishing license and such.

 

[Phil D.]

I have 300 dives under my belt, Guam..Saipan..Truk lagoon..Philippines

 

[erk]

I looked it up for Florida years ago. Basically can't take any rock or hard corals. Gorgonians and soft corals are allowed. Fish can be caught for eating or ornamental as long as you have a fishing license. The limits on catches applies for both cases, i.e. grouper has to be between 23 and 26 inches or something like that, etc.

 

[drummerkid97]

I have 300 dives under my belt, Guam..Saipan..Truk lagoon..Philippines

Truk is definitely on my list! One of my buddies said it was his favorite place to dive in the world

 

[boehm742]

Of course there is, but first lets get started on where. Only then can anyone provide you insight on local and statewide regulations as well as other groups like the DNR to find your answer.