New speckled trout regulations go into effect Nov. 20

The new speckled trout size and daily creel limits go into effect and will be enforced beginning Nov. 20.

The new regulations are as follows:

  • Size limit: 13-20 inches total length, only two fish included within the daily creel limit can be greater than 20 inches total length
  • Daily Creel: 15-fish daily limit per angler
  • Charterboat guides and crew will not be able to retain a creel limit while on a charter trip but may engage in fishing

The new regulations are scheduled to “sunset” at midnight, Jan. 1, 2028 and LDWF staff are required to provide an up-to-date stock assessment before the commission’s April 2027 meeting. This update assessment will provide the commission an opportunity to modify the regulations, if needed, before the sunset in 2028.

The current speckled trout size limit is 12” total length with a daily creel of 25 fish.

LDWF Fisheries Outreach staff has developed a video on best handling practices for speckled trout. Following these tips will help reduce discard mortality for released trout.