The Annual Lionfish Roundup

Amanda Hicks
Posted by Amanda Hicks
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Published in Boating

The 8th Annual Lionfish Roundup will be held next Saturday, June 2nd. 

The roundup begins on Friday, June 1st, with a divers meeting and kick-off party at 6 p.m. at the Jupiter Pointe Marina in Tequesta. The spearfishing competition for the Lionfish is on Saturday with a tally and awards party at 2 p.m. Divers spearing the most Lionfish, the smallest, and the largest will be awarded up to $5,000. It's a fun way to do some fishing and to protect our natural reef habitat. 

Lionfish are an invasive species in South Florida that destroy our coral reefs, consume native reef fish, and breed at an uncontrollable rate. The roundup was started eight years ago when the species started dominating the coastline. 

The highly territorial fish are native to the Indian and Pacific Ocean and scientists believe they got to the Atlantic by the aquarium trade and via ballast tanks of cargo ships. 

Lionfish can really only be captured or killed by spearfishermen because they hide within the reef and are covered with venemous spikes. They're a favorite of aquarium enthusiasts for their unique look and also a favorite to foodies because they make for really good eating. They're a white, firm and flaky fish that doesn't have a fishy taste. Many find it a delicacy.

Registration for the roundup is open until May 25th. The cost is $70 per diver and $210 for teams of four. To register or find out more information, click here.

Martin County has made an interesting video about the Lionfish Roundup that you can also check out here.

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