Florida - land of sportfishing

Fishing has been around for centuries when man first discovered that fish could be used for food. Many countries citizens still depend on fishing for their livelihood, especially in developing nations. According to the United Nation's FAO, the total global number of commercial fishermen and fish farmers is around 38 million.

As a sport, fishing can bring in big bucks. This is not confined to developing nations alone, where even developed countries organise huge fishing events with big cash prizes going to the person with the biggest catch. Florida, in the United States, is a popular fishing destination. The Florida Keys are home to a large variety of fish including marlin, tuna and sailfish. If you're in the vicinity, check out fishing guide South Florida and fishing guide Boca Raton for information on key fishing destinations.

Some of the more popular destinations are Lake Okeechobee, Florida's largest lake, located on the Treasure Coast; Boca Grande, located between Gasparilla and Cayo Costa islands. The area is home to the tarpon, one of a species of Megalops which can grow to a size of five to eight feet in length; Destin, located at the top of the Gulf of Mexico in Florida's north west. The fish found here include mackerel, cobia, sailfish, wahoo, amberjack, snapper, tuna, and blue marlin.

For fishing guide South Florida and fishing guide Boca Raton, try one of these organizations - South Florida Fishing Adventures, Off Shore Adventures Inc., Fish City Drift Fishing, Summerwind Sportfishing Charters, Offshore Hustler Fishing Charters and Action Sportfishing. All these organizations have websites listing details and guidelines for the sport. It is important to note that some fishing charters advocate preservation of fish stock and may not allow consistent fishing.

The United State's exclusive economic zone stretches for 11.4 million square kilometers, making it the largest fishing zone in the world. The National Marine Fisheries Service works with regional fishery management councils of the United States to prevent overfishing and maintain fish stocks. It also works towards reducing fishing intensity and bycatch (fish caught unintentionally while attempting to catch other fish). The sport of fishing is not likely to see a drop in popularity as long as stocks are maintained. So if you're an avid sportfisher, play the sport prudently so that others may enjoy the same.