FWC

Lee, Charlotte and Manatee counties are in the top 10 Florida counties for manatee deaths so far in 2025, a new report from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission shows.The report shows that of the 148 manatees that have died this year in Florida as of Feb. 14, Lee County has had the most with 31 deaths.

Florida could move toward its first sanctioned bear hunt in nearly a decade.The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on Wednesday directed officials to bring forward proposals for a possible bear hunt. The proposals are expected to be completed by a May commission meeting, giving staff members time to compile data from ongoing studies about bear populations and gather more public input.

FWC recovers 37 stolen gold coins from 1715 fleet shipwrecks originally found off Florida's Treasure Coast.

Gov. DeSantis signs order making many hunting and fishing licenses 50 percent off through Jan. 3

Florida black bears are beginning to increase their activity as fall descends on Southwest Florida.

With Tropical Storm Helene is predicted to make landfall in Florida on Thursday, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission is urging all vessel owners to secure their watercraft before the storm reaches the coast.FWC Southwest Region Public Information Officer Bradley Johnson highlighted the importance of moving any vessel, from kayak to fishing boat, away from tidal waters and increasing security measures to limit damages. He offered crucial tips for those who are unable to trailer their boat.

The School Fishing Club Program is an annual educational grant program that teaches youth anglers about best fishing practices to help ensure the future of fishing in Florida.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is asking Floridians to report all sightings of wild turkeys between now and Aug. 31. This includes hens (with or without poults or young turkeys) and bearded turkeys.

Investigators from the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission unraveled an organized fraud case involving the state's prized Osceola turkey, leading to multiple felony charges against four Southwest Florida individuals.