Most finfish size limit regulations of the Florida Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Commission (FWC) use either Fork Length or Total
Length.   

These measurement methods provide a consistent, well defined
measurement technique. These methods encourage angler
compliance with fishery management regulations.

For more information, click Fish Length Measurement FAQs.

Total Length Measurement
Total Length is now measured from the most forward point of the
head, with the mouth closed, to the farthest tip of the tail with the tail
compressed or squeezed, while the fish is lying on its side.
How to Measure Saltwater Fish
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Total Length Species Include:

  • Snapper Family
  • Tripletail
  • Grouper Family
  • Bonefish
  • Red Drum
  • Sheepshead
  • Black Drum
  • Flounder
  • Snook
  • Several ornamentals
  • Spotted Seatrout
  • (Angelfish, etc.)
  • Weakfish
Fork Length Measurement
Fish regulated by fork length are measured from the tip of the jaw or
tip of the snout with closed mouth to the center of the fork in the tail.
Fork Length Species Include:

  • Amberjacks
  • Bluefish
  • Rudderfish
  • King Mackerel
  • Hogfish
  • Spanish Mackerel
  • Dolphin
  • Permit
  • Cobia
  • Pompano
  • Mullet African Pompano
  • Gray Triggerfish
Lower Jaw Fork Length Measurement (Billfishes)
Fish regulated by lower jaw fork length are measured in a straight line from
the anterior most part of the lower jaw (tip of the lower jaw) to the fork in the
tail.
Lower Jaw Fork Length Species Include:

  • Sailfish
  • Blue Marlin
  • White Marlin
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