Lionfish removal nets Fla. record

A record 19,167 lionfish were removed from Gulf and Atlantic waters as part of the Emerald Coast Open tournament, which coincided with the 5th Annual Lionfish Removal and Awareness Festival at AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar and Harbor Walk Village in Destin, Fla., on May 18-19. While the tournament is over, there are chances to earn prizes through the FWC’s 2019 Lionfish Challenge, a removal incentive program started May 18 and continues through Labor Day, Sept. 2. This year, participants who submit the largest and smallest lionfish may be eligible to receive up to $3,000 in prizes thanks to support sponsors: American Sportfishing Association, Yamaha Motor Co., Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach (Fla.) County and National Marine Manufacturers Association. Find more details at fwcreefrangers.com. (Source: InWeekly 05/30/19)