The waters on Florida’s Gulf Coast are more than the scenery, wildlife and beaches, they are also a lifeline for fishing guides. Following the 2024 hurricane season, which brought widespread damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, many who depend on healthy waters for their livelihoods are still struggling to recover.
In response, Suncoast Waterkeeper and Tampa Bay Waterkeeper are teaming up to provide much-needed financial aid to local recreational fishing professionals impacted by these storms. Thanks to a grant from the International Game Fish Association’s Worldwide Anglers Relief Fund, eligible captains and guides can apply for competitive grants of up to $1,000 to help cover lost income and recovery expenses.
“The recreational fishing industry plays a vital role in safeguarding our local waters, often serving as the first line of defense by reporting pollution incidents,” said Dr. Abbey Tyrna, executive director of Suncoast Waterkeeper. “We’re proud to support this community and give back to those who faced economic hardship during the 2024 hurricane season.”
Application details:
- Open: July 26 – Aug. 2
- Who’s eligible: Recreational fishing industry professionals impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, including charter captains, operating within the Suncoast and Tampa Bay regions. Priority will be given to those who work full-time in the recreational fishing industry.
- Required documentation: A valid U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license, proof of insurance, completed W-9 form, verified proof of trip cancellations or revenue loss (booking records, customer statements).
Apply at https://bit.ly/WARF_grant beginning July 26.
“Charter captains are the tip of the spear when it comes to our coalition of water quality advocates in Tampa Bay,” said Justin Tramble, executive director of Tampa Bay Waterkeeper. “This industry took a significant and unfortunate hit during last season’s historic hurricane season. We are honored to stand with our partners to support our community.”
Grant recipients will be announced on Aug. 15. Funds will be awarded based on the applicant’s primary service area, either the Tampa Bay or Suncoast region.
This effort is made possible by the Worldwide Anglers Relief Fund (WARF), established in 2017 in partnership with Costa Sunglasses. Since its inception, WARF has distributed over $305,000 to fishing communities impacted by natural disasters across the U.S., Caribbean and Central America, helping local guides recover and rebuild. Suncoast Waterkeeper and Tampa Bay Waterkeeper share a united mission to protect and restore the waters of the region to ensure fishable, swimmable, and drinkable water for all.
Together, these Waterkeeper organizations are committed to supporting and giving back to the fishing community that has been heavily impacted by natural disasters, standing alongside those who support and depend on healthy waters.
To learn more about and join the work of Suncoast Waterkeeper and Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, visit their websites at https://www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org/ and https://www.tampabaywaterkeeper.org/
