From Ron Brooks,
Your Guide to Saltwater Fishing.
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Over the past several years I have written several pieces regarding commercial fishermen and sport fishermen in Florida and the issues that face both sides. I understand the emotional and rational issues that the commercial people have undergone and that these issues continue to plague the industry. At the same time, I am a sport fishing angler, and I try to see both sides of every issue that is brought to light.

Currently, commercial fishermen are limited as to the size and type of nets they can use and the area in which they may be used. I, along with every other sport fisherman in Florida, called this the "Net Ban". The actual Constitutional Amendment is titled "Limiting Marine Net Fishing".

My observations have been that this amendment has helped bring back the stocks of redfish that were severely depleted over the years by both commercial and sport fishermen alike. Actually redfish had been protected with a no take rule even prior to the amendment, and that in itself may have played a large part in their recovery. My article "Fish Bag Limits - Are They Too Restrictive?"relates to some activity that was common among sport fishermen as I grew up fishing.

I'm beginning to think that some of the issues the commercial anglers bring forward really need to be heard and addressed.

So the following information, provided by Dave Grix, Vice President of Fishing for Freedom sort of fits into the current round of debates. Fishing For Freedom is not necessarily against the amendment, just against what appear to be unfair rules and restrictions - and it looks like they have the proof to back their position. Read this report on page 2.