FWC & Florida Sea Grant Stop By Panhandle Salt

September 5th, 2025

This week we had the honor of hosting MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife Erin Pereira. and Rick O’Connor from Florida Sea Grant at the shop. Two key items were on the agenda:
Land-based surf fishing charters, how to get our profession organized, protected, and respected along the Gulf Coast.
Upcoming Spotted Seatrout Rulemaking Workshops, a chance for anglers to directly shape the future of this iconic fishery.

These workshops are open to the public, and your input as a saltwater angler is needed. Bring your ideas, experiences, and recommendations about the future of speckled trout management.
Workshop Schedule (6:00–8:00 PM each night):
Pensacola — September 8th @ Pensacola Public Library (239 N Spring St)
Panama City — September 9th @ Bay County Public Library (898 W 11th St)
Destin — September 11th @ Destin Fishing Museum (108 Stahlman Ave)

This is your chance to have a voice in how regulations are shaped. The more input, the better the outcome for our fisheries. For more information visit https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/rulemaking/workshops/...

Comments can be submitted here: https://myfwc.com/.../rulem.../saltwater-public-comments/...

New Invasive Species Alert
We also discussed a recent FWRI press release about a new invasive species to the northern Gulf — the thrush cowrie.

Native to the Red Sea and Indian Ocean, it was first reported on Florida’s east coast in 2022 and is now showing up along the Panhandle.

They thrive in waters under 25’, feeding on vegetation.

Their larvae are planktonic, carried by currents or transported in ship ballast water.

They secrete eggs on hard surfaces like jetties and seawalls.

If you find this snail, remove it and report the sighting to your local Sea Grant Agent at the Extension Office. https://www.facebook.com/escambia.extension

This is a reminder that we’re all stewards of the Gulf. From attending workshops to pulling invasive species, every action helps keep our fishery strong.