The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is moving forward with targeted, seasonal protections for the bonefish pre-spawning aggregation (PSA) site discovered by Bonefish & Tarpon Trust in Biscayne National Park in the spring of 2023.

The May FWC meeting was the first to cover the proposed seasonal rule changes that are expected to be finalized at the Commission's August meeting. The proposed changes would prohibit hook-and-line fishing and the possession of hook-and-line gear within a 1.74-square-mile area east of Elliott Key in Biscayne National Park during peak bonefish spawning season.

"This aggregation discovery is a milestone in the recovery of this iconic fishery," said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. "We recognize this site's importance and are committed to continuing the protection for this significant species."

The bonefish PSA site in Biscayne National Park is the first to be scientifically documented in Florida waters. BTT thanks FWC for protecting the future generations of Florida's prized bonefish fishery. With the help of fishing guides, BTT is now researching a potential spawning site in the Lower Keys near Key West.