MONROE COUNTY, Fla. – Two separate incidents in the Florida Keys have resulted in penalties for anglers violating fishing regulations.
In the first case, Gabriel Bazail Lopez, 41, of Miami, was arrested after being found in possession of five undersized mutton snapper and fishing without a license. Monroe County Sheriff’s Deputy Luis Guiardin encountered Lopez during resource checks on the Channel Five Bridge.
In the second incident, Erik Busquet, 44, of Hialeah, received a citation for possessing a dead parrotfish.
READ: Florida Sea Grant’s Fishing Programs Reel In National Recognition For Conservation Efforts
Monroe County Deputy Willie Guerra discovered the violation during resource checks on the Channel Two Bridge. Parrotfish are a regulated species and can only be kept for aquarium purposes.
Both incidents highlight the importance of adhering to fishing regulations to protect Florida’s marine life. Anglers are reminded to obtain the necessary licenses and familiarize themselves with size and species restrictions before heading out on the water.
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