Evaluating the Impact of Recreational Harvest and Management Strategies for Bay Scallops <i>Argopecten irradians concentricus</i> in a Florida Gulf Coast Management Zone

Since 1994, the fishery for bay scallops Argopecten irradians concentricus in Florida has been limited to a recreational that operates during summer, before spawning season fall. Recent growth of necessitates study effect this increased exploitation on scallop population. The focused one management zone, centered community Steinhatchee, is known high rates exploitation. Within we created model harvest using fishery-independent and fishery-dependent survey methods evaluated risk extirpation stock. We found zone functions as derby, with most effort occurring when opens, followed by steady decline throughout season. Effort estimates suggest 21,579 vessels, or 82,398 people, from 94% Florida’s counties 16 other states participated 2018 Steinhatchee zone. influx harvesters generated approximately US$1.8 million revenue small coastal resulted an estimated fishing mortality 57–72% population rate exceeded 0.4, suggesting may be unable sustain itself under current conditions. strategies would danger being extirpated if doubled, need regular monitoring probably statewide.