👥 Who: Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Coastal Conservation Association Florida (CCA), Paul Mixon, Brian Gorski
🔹 What: Released 25,000 juvenile redfish to improve populations and ecosystem health
⏰ When: Tuesday, December 16, 2025
📍 Where: Cinco Bayou, Okaloosa County, Florida
❓ Why: To address declining redfish populations, enhance habitats, and support local fisheries
Okaloosa County, FL — In a major boost for Northwest Florida fisheries, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, in partnership with the Coastal Conservation Association Florida (CCA), released 25,000 juvenile redfish into Cinco Bayou on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025.
The effort, part of a multi-year collaboration, is designed to address declining redfish populations and enhance local habitats for one of Florida’s most popular inshore fish species.
“We appreciate this continued partnership with CCA Florida to promote the long-term health of our bay and bayous,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “While this species is popular among our local anglers, it will also enhance area habitats and protect numerous species that add to the overall wellness of a robust ecosystem.”
The redfish released measured between two and four inches in length and can take about three years to reach 26 inches. Known also as red drum, spottail, red bass, or channel bass, redfish can live up to 40 years.
“Returning to Choctawhatchee Bay for a third redfish release is a proud moment for our organization,” said Brian Gorski, Executive Director of CCA Florida. “Today’s release marks another step forward in our commitment to sustaining Florida’s marine resources, and we are grateful for our continued partnership with Okaloosa County to make this event possible.”
Anglers in the Panhandle should keep in mind Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations for redfish: the season is open year-round, with a slot limit of 18 to 27 inches, a daily bag limit of one fish per person, and a four-fish vessel limit.
The Coastal Conservation Association Florida, a 501(c)3 non-profit founded in 1985, has over 18,000 members and works to conserve and enhance marine resources and coastal environments through habitat restoration, water quality initiatives, and fisheries advocacy.
This redfish release continues a growing effort to sustain Northwest Florida’s marine life while supporting the recreational fishing community.
Pro Communi Bono
St. Francis De Sales, Ora Pro Nobis!
Register or login with Mid Bay News and never get another pop up on our site!
