Lionfish (Pterois volitans/miles complex) are the only fish eligible for entry. All lionfish must be caught during the derby dates and cannot be previously caught or frozen. Keep all lionfish on ice to maintain freshness.
02. FISH HANDLING
Individuals can take back their catch after measuring and are free to handle the fish as they wish.
03. CAPTAIN’S MEETING
The Captain’s Meeting will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at Diver’s Paradise Dive Center (4000 Crandon Boulevard, Key Biscayne, FL). Light refreshments will be served. All individuals must attend and must also participate in the derby. Safe collecting and handling techniques as well as derby rules will be reviewed.
04. SHIRT PICK-UP
Derby shirts can be picked up before the Captain’s Meeting, starting at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025—at the event location (Diver’s Paradise Dive Center).
05. WAIVERS
All waivers must be signed by the diving participant. Failure to sign the forms before the Captain’s Meeting will disqualify the participant, even if registration fees were paid.
06. LEGAL CAPTURE METHODS
Only legal means of capture are allowed in areas where certain gear types are permitted. All federal, state and local laws must be adhered to. All necessary permits must be presented at the Captain’s Meeting. During the event, lionfish may only be caught using pole spears with paralyzer tips, hand nets, or hook and line. No chemicals, traps, or other mechanisms are permitted.
07. DERBY HOURS & COLLECTION ZONES
Lionfish may be taken from any waters within the invaded region, as long as collection occurs during derby hours and fish are dropped off by 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 6, 2025.
08. LEGAL COMPLIANCE
All participants must follow all relevant federal, state and local laws, which will be strictly enforced.
09. PARTICIPANT COMPETITION
To qualify for prizes, all participants must be registered and provide proper identification.
10. REGISTRATION FEES
Non-refundable registration fees are $60 per team and must be paid by March 1, 2025.
11. SAFETY MEASURES
Participants must wear protective gloves when handling lionfish. It is encouraged to carry a heat pack or thermos with hot (not scalding) water for first aid.
12. DERBY FISHING HOURS
Derby fishing hours are Saturday, April 5, 2025: Sunrise to Sunset and Sunday, April 6, 2025: Sunrise to 12:00 p.m. All fish must be dropped off by 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 6, 2025.