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Welcome to the exciting new Big Catch website! Big Catch is now part of Go Outdoors Florida. For instructions on logging in or registering, please see the TrophyCatch FAQ.

Overview and Goal Statements


Big Catch is designed to encourage anglers to enjoy the full variety of freshwater fishes found in Florida and to try new locations, techniques and species.  
  1. Check the Big Catch Eligible Species list for the species you are interested in.
  2. Visit the Fish Range Finder to see the distribution of eligible species. 
  3. Catch one that is bigger than the minimum Qualifying Length OR Weight and take a photo.
  4. Remember youth under 16 years old, can qualify with slightly smaller fish.
  5. Fish must be caught using an active hook-and-line method (bush hooks, snatch hooks, set lines, and trotlines are excluded).
  6. Log-in and submit your catch, to get your Certificate and brag online.
  7. Continue to catch and report more for additional recognition:

  • Specialist = Five of the same species
  • Master Angler = Five different species
  • Elite Angler = Ten different species
  • Slams are for catching special groups of fish all in a specific time period

[NOTE: Largemouth bass over 8 pounds, that are carefully documented and released should be submitted to TrophyCatch for rewards, be sure to have a camera, scale and tape measurer with you and follow the submission rules carefully.]

What is Big Catch?

  • Big Catch is Florida's family-friendly, freshwater angler recognition program.
  • Thirty-three different freshwater fish to choose from.
  • Simply catch a fish that exceeds the qualifying length OR weight, take a photo and submit.
  • Special youth sizes to invite their participation. 
  • Qualifiers get a customized color-certificate, decal and discount for a photo plaque.
  • Advanced anglers, continue the challenge seeking Specialist, Master and Elite Angler recognition.

Recent Submissions

Recent Submission


KIETH PERRERO

Saint Johns River

2 lbs 4 Oz  |  26 Nov, 2024

Black Crappie

Featured Angler


James Schulte

Tsala Apopka Lake

0 lbs 0 Oz  |  23 Apr, 2023

Bluegill

Contact Us


This program is brought to you by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and our conservation partners. The FWC mission is "Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people." These programs collect valuable data through citizen-science, encourage fishing and conservation and bring enjoyment to Florida anglers.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management, 620 S. Meridian St., Tallahassee, FL 32399. For program or prizing questions please email us at [email protected] or call 1-855-FL-Trophy (1-855-358-7674). For non-TrophyCatch questions try AskFWCCopyright 2013. All rights reserved. Fish images by Duane Raver, Jr. and Diane Rome Peebles. Read about privacy - Read our terms