The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Catch a Florida Memory program is hitting its 10-year mark in 2026. You could call it a “Catch-a-versary.” Since its launch back in 2016, anglers from every corner of Florida have submitted over 45,000 catches. The program isn’t only about bragging rights; it gives anglers of all skill levels a rewarding way to showcase their catches, expand the list of species they target, support conservation, and build a personal fishing story in the Fishing Capital of the World.
Looking back over the past decade, FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management Director Jessica McCawley says, “We’re grateful for our dedicated anglers and partners who make Catch a Florida Memory thrive.” She added, “Thanks for sharing your fishing stories—here’s to another decade of memories.”
To mark this anniversary, Catch a Florida Memory kicks off new challenges, program updates, and prizes throughout 2026.
Catch-a-versary Challenges
Secret Fish, Sponsored by Mustad
Submit your catches as usual, but keep an eye out—one might match the quarter’s “secret fish” from the Life List. Want better odds? Mix up your submissions or resubmit species you’ve already caught. Each quarter, the newsletter and Facebook page drop a hint about the chosen fish.
Veterans Challenge
This one’s for active and retired military anglers. Compete against other branches for points with every qualifying catch. The first recognition gets you a Veterans Challenge Coin and a hat, plus regular prizes. The branch with the most points by Veterans Day takes home the Honor Award.
Photo of the Year
Take your best shot, literally. In 2026, submit your catch photos—Catch a Florida Memory staff selects the top 10 for voting in February. Winners get featured in the Saltwater Fishing Regulations.
Triple Threat Throwdown
Triple Threat Club anglers get another shot at the Throwdown. Achieve qualifying feats to earn entries; more achievements mean more chances at a bona fide fishing kayak and gear package from Yakattack, Mustad, and Power-Pole.
Program Updates for 2026
Based on feedback from annual surveys, Catch a Florida Memory rolls out several changes:
– Revamped Grand Slams: Five Grand Slams—Inshore, Nearshore, Bay and Estuary, Reefs and Rubble, and Small Fry—now have updated species lists.
– Updated Reel Big Fish: Reel Big Fish reduced the lengths for almaco jack, black drum, crevalle jack, gag grouper, flounder, red grouper, sheepshead, and Spanish mackerel.
– Expanded Life List: The Life List jumps from 70 to 75 species, including Atlantic croaker, Atlantic spadefish, northern kingfish, palometa, and yellow jack.
Anniversary Prizes (While Supplies Last)
To celebrate, submit your first qualifying achievement in 2026 and snag a 10-year dry-fit shirt or a mini tackle box; limited supply, so don’t wait.
Join the Celebration
No sign-up fees, just fishing. If you’ve landed a first fish, hit a personal best, or checked off a new species, share that moment with Catch a Florida Memory. Every catch is a story, and every memory counts. Sign up today and help shape the next decade.
For complete challenge details, visit CatchaFloridaMemory.com or email AnglerRecognition@MyFWC.com. Follow Catch a Florida Memory on Facebook and keep up with FWC Saltwater Fishing on Fishbrain.
And always: handle fish with care, respect regulations, and keep your license current. Ethical fishing preserves Florida’s fisheries. Find out more at MyFWC.com/SFR.
