How do I measure fish that have flimsy tail filaments, such as scamp, certain grouper or black sea bass? For fish that have ragged-edge filaments at the corner of their tails, these extensions MUST be included in the overall measurement of Total Length.

For species that have a slot limit, should an angler pinch the tail at both ends of the slot? Yes.

Should fish intended for release be measured in or out of the water? If you are intending on releasing your catch and want to obtain an approximate measurement for record purposes, do the very best you can to measure the fish alongside the boat or along the shoreline without fully removing it from the water.

For more information on Florida recreational angling rules and regulations, please contact the Division of Marine Fisheries Management at 850-487-0554 or visit myFWC.com/marine.

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