For ten years, Florida anglers have been turning their days on the water into data, helping conservation efforts while racking up prizes. In 2026, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is marking the 10th anniversary of its “Catch a Florida Memory” program with a year-long slate of new challenges, expanded species lists, and high-stakes rewards.
Since its inception in 2016, the program has logged over 45,000 catches, creating a bridge between recreational fishing and state conservation monitoring. To commemorate the milestone, the FWC has announced a “Catch-a-versary” event designed to reinvigorate the state’s saltwater angling community.
“As we reflect on the last decade, we want to thank our passionate anglers and generous partners who make Catch a Florida Memory possible,” said Jessica McCawley, Director of the FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management. “We appreciate you sharing your fishing journeys and look forward to another decade of reeling in memories on the water.”
New Year, New Challenges
The 2026 celebration introduces several competitive tracks designed to test anglers of all skill levels, from weekend hobbyists to active service members.
One of the most anticipated additions is the Secret Fish challenge, sponsored by Mustad. Each quarter, a specific species from the program’s “Life List” will be secretly selected. Anglers won’t know the target fish immediately, though hints will be dropped in newsletters and on social media. Participants are encouraged to diversify their targets or resubmit past species to increase their odds of landing the mystery catch.
Recognizing Florida’s military community, the program is also debuting a Veterans Challenge. This track pits active and retired service members against one another in a branch-vs-branch competition. Participants earn points for qualifying catches, with the winning branch receiving an Honor Award on Veterans Day. Individual anglers can also earn exclusive challenge coins and hats.
For those with an eye for photography, the Photo of the Year contest offers a unique prize: immortality in print. The top 10 photos submitted throughout the year will go to a public vote in February, with the winner featured in the official Saltwater Fishing Regulations guide.
Shaking Up the Rules
Beyond the contests, the FWC is adjusting the core mechanics of the program based on years of participant feedback. Long-time anglers will notice significant changes to the qualification criteria starting this year:
- Expanded Life List: The master list of target species has grown from 70 to 75. New additions include the Atlantic croaker, Atlantic spadefish, northern kingfish, palometa, and yellow jack.
- Reel Big Fish Adjustments: The length requirements for several popular species have been reduced, potentially making it easier to qualify for recognition. Impacted species include black drum, gag grouper, sheepshead, and Spanish mackerel.
- Grand Slam Revamp: Five different Grand Slam categories—including Inshore, Nearshore, and Reefs and Rubble—have had their species lists updated.
Prizes and Participation
The anniversary year also brings the return of the Triple Threat Throwdown, where members of the Triple Threat Club can earn entries toward a grand prize package featuring a Bonafide fishing kayak and gear from YakAttack and Power-Pole.
On a broader scale, the FWC is offering commemorative 10-year anniversary dry-fit shirts and mini tackle boxes to participants who log their first qualifying achievement of 2026, available while supplies last.
Participation in Catch a Florida Memory remains free. The FWC continues to emphasize that all fishing must be done in accordance with state regulations and ethical handling practices to ensure the sustainability of the fisheries for the next decade.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox
