Treasure Coast residents need to be aware that the invasive Indo-Pacific lionfish has moved onto our near-shore reefs, into our inlets and is set up for a massive invasion of the Indian River Lagoon.
On Saturday, June 7th the 2nd Annual Treasure Coast Lionfish Safari will be held at the Ft. Pierce City Marina. This is a “lionfish only” event, and registered teams, in any waters within the Treasure Coast, can take lionfish without a permit. Boat Captains, fishermen and divers from throughout Florida are welcome to register for cash prizes and tournament awards.
The Captain’s meeting will be held at 6:30 pm on Friday the 6th, with the event commencing at sunrise on Saturday the 7th and the exciting weigh-in and awards ceremony at 5:00 pm. There will be winning categories for Teams bringing in the “Most”, “Largest” and “Smallest” lionfish. And if you are not a diver, don’t miss the competition weigh-in, live music, lionfish-tasting, and local Marine Artists on Saturday afternoon!
Sponsoring organizations include: Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, LandShark, Deep Six Watersports, Varsity Sport Shop, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Institute of Technology and NOVA Southeastern University, Friends of Harbor Branch, Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce, Zookeeper LCU, Ultimate Fitness, Dr. Lieberman, St. Lucie Eye Associates, and others.
The Ft. Pierce City Marina, Marine Cleanup Initiative Inc, Manufacturing Resources, Inc., and local lionfish hunters, TEAM FRAPPER, are hosting the event.
Sponsors are still being sought. Vendors are invited to sign up for booth space.