The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) saltwater angler recognition program, Catch a Florida Memory, is marking its 10-year anniversary in 2026. Since its start in 2016, the program has received more than 45,000 catch submissions from anglers of varying skill levels across the state.
The initiative allows participants to document their fishing achievements, explore new species, and support conservation efforts while sharing their experiences from what FWC calls the “Fishing Capital of the World.”
“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 FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management Director Jessica McCawley. “We appreciate you sharing your fishing journeys and look forward to another decade of reeling in memories on the water.”
To commemorate this milestone, Catch a Florida Memory will introduce new challenges, update existing programs, and offer enhanced prizes throughout 2026.
Among the new features are several themed challenges:
– The Secret Fish Sponsored by Mustad: Anglers can submit catches for a chance that one might match each quarter’s “secret fish” from the Life List. Hints about the chosen species will be released via newsletter and Facebook at each quarter’s start.
– Veterans Challenge: This challenge is open only to active or retired military personnel. Service members compete against other branches by submitting qualifying catches. The first recognition comes with an exclusive Veterans Challenge Coin and hat. The branch with the highest points receives an Honor Award after Veterans Day.
– Photo of the Year: Participants can submit photos throughout 2026 for consideration as one of ten finalists selected by staff. These photos will be voted on by participants in February for a chance to appear in Saltwater Fishing Regulations.
– Triple Threat Throwdown: Members of the Triple Threat Club can earn entries into a drawing for prizes such as a Bonafide fishing kayak and equipment package supplied by YakAttack, Mustad, and Power-Pole.
In response to participant feedback collected through annual surveys, several updates will take effect next year:
– Five Grand Slam categories have revised species lists.
– Size requirements have been lowered for certain fish recognized under Reel Big Fish.
– The Life List now includes five additional species—Atlantic croaker, Atlantic spadefish, northern kingfish, palometa, and yellow jack—raising the total from 70 to 75.
Participants submitting their first qualifying achievement in 2026 may receive special anniversary dry-fit shirts or mini tackle boxes while supplies last.
Catch a Florida Memory remains free for all saltwater anglers in Florida. Interested individuals can find details about participation rules at CatchaFloridaMemory.com or contact AnglerRecognition@MyFWC.com. Updates are also available via Facebook and Fishbrain.
FWC reminds all anglers to handle fish responsibly and comply with regulations; information on licenses and best practices is available at MyFWC.com/SFR.
