TrophyCatch Florida

TrophyCatch is an incentive-based conservation program designed for anglers who catch-and-release largemouth bass heavier than eight pounds, in Florida.

Our goals are:

-Collect valid information through citizen-science about trophy bass to help the FWC better enhance, conserve and promote trophy bass fishing.

-Encourage catch-and-release of the biggest, oldest, most valuable bass.

-Excite anglers about Florida freshwater fishing encouraging them to purchase licenses and fish more resulting in benefits to anglers, fishing-related businesses, local communities and the fisheries by having more support and funding for conservation.

-Share information about fishing opportunities and destinations to make fishing more enjoyable.

-Anglers are encouraged to follow catch-and-release guidelines for these big bass and to document the catch through a photograph of the entire bass on a scale with the weight clearly legible. See RULES and PRIZES for details.

Don't qualify for TrophyCatch? Angler recognition is provided for memorable catches of 33 different species of freshwater fishes in Florida through Big Catch, and features Specialist, Master and Elite Angler challenges. See more at BigCatchFlorida.com.

For Season 4 (1 Oct 2015 - 30 Sep 2016), everyone who registers in the TrophyCatch program is automatically included in a drawing for a Phoenix 619 Pro bass boat and trailer, powered by a 200 hp Mercury outboard and equipped with a MotorGuide trolling motor and Power-Pole. Every verified entry in TrophyCatch adds 10 extra chances to win. The winner will be drawn randomly in October, after each season ends. The drawing is based on catch date, but we wait until Oct 15 to conduct the drawing to allow travelers and others time to submit catches.

To be eligible for any Florida Freshwater Angler Recognition Prizing, anglers must comply with all appropriate rules. Commencing in Season-3 rules will be more strictly enforced, now that there has been an adequate learning period. Advance registration will help ensure you understand the rules, stay up-to-date with angler recognition program updates and have the proper equipment (scale, measuring tape and camera) to document your catch when you go fishing. Note: Neither the FWC nor the State of Florida endorse any individual company, and each company is solely responsible for their products/services and fulfillment of any offers. State laws prohibit false claims or fraud when claiming prizes. FWC employees, including OPS, are not eligible to win prizes other than posting pictures and certificate level recognition.

These programs are brought to you by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and our corporate partners. The FWC mission is "Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people." These programs collect valuable data through citizen-science, encourage fishing and conservation and bring enjoyment to Florida anglers.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management, 620 S. Meridian St., Tallahassee, FL 32399. Email [email protected] for TrophyCatch and prizing questions. Call 1-855-FL-Trophy (1-855-358-7674) to report a bass greather than 13 lbs. For general fishing questions try AskFWC.