Florida collection advise

[bmthomps84]

I'm going camping/canoeing on the Santa Fe River, in Alachua County here in Florida this weekend.

I was thinking I would really like to bring back a few small native fish from the area to put in a 20g starter tank I have.

Anyone ever collected from this river before? Do you have any knowledge on what I might find there?

What is the best way to catch and transport them safely?

Any advice on what not to do, so as to not violate and laws or restrictions?

 

[Noto]

You can get that data from Natureserve's clickable map here: http://www.natureserve.org/getData/dataSets/watershedHucs/index.jsp

Here's the list for the Santa Fe drainage: http://www.natureserve.org/getData/dataSets/watershedHucs/hucTable.jsp?huc=3110206

Pretty poor selection of darters, at least compared to my local streams, but lots of great minnows, sunfish, livebearers, and killifish, as well as several oceanic invaders!

Florida fishing regs are here: http://www.myfwc.com/RULESANDREGS/Freshwater_FishRules_index.htm#METHODS%20OF%20TAKING%20BAIT

Looks like you're pretty much free and clear to collect nongame species (other than alligator gar or grass carp) with a seine or dipnet. Game fish must be taken by approved means and fish at your house count towards your collection limit.

If you're going by yourself, a dipnet is probably your best bet. Get one with a wide net, sturdy frame, long handle, and tight mesh. Seines are more productive, but it really helps to have a partner, and to have an experienced seiner show you the ropes.

Transport fish home in a cooler with an aerator. Adding a little 'Bait-Saver' is helpful. You can use dechlorinated tap water or local water, if it seems clean and clear.

Good luck! Take pictures and show us what you find!

 

[bmthomps84]

Wow amazing info, couldn't have asked for a better reply. I will definitely upload some pics when I get back. Hopefully I will have many to share!