In response to the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton to the local recreational fishing industry, Suncoast Waterkeeper and Tampa Bay Waterkeeper have launched grants of up to $1,000 to help cover lost income and recovery expenses.
The grants are designed to provide financial aid to local recreational fishing professionals impacted by the 2024 hurricanes. The grant is funded by the International Game Fish Association’s Worldwide Anglers Relief Fund and eligible captains and guides can apply for competitive grants of up to $1,000 to help cover lost income and recovery expenses.
“On Florida’s Gulf Coast, our waters are more than scenery, they are a lifeline. Following the 2024 hurricane season, which brought widespread damage, many who depend on healthy waters for their livelihoods are still struggling to recover,” according to a press release from Suncoast Waterkeeper and Tampa Bay Waterkeeper.
“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,” Suncoast Waterkeeper Executive Director Dr. Abbey Tyrna said. “We’re proud to support this community and give back to those who faced economic hardship during the 2024 hurricane season.”
Applications are open until Saturday, Aug. 2. Grant recipients will be announced on Friday, Aug. 15. The online application is available at the WARF website.
Recreational fishing industry professionals impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, including charter captains, operating within the Suncoast and Tampa Bay regions are eligible, with priority given to those who work fulltime in the recreational fishing industry.
Required documentation includes a valid U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license, proof of insurance, a completed W-9 form and verified proof of trip cancellations or revenue loss (e.g., booking records, customer statements).
“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.”
The Worldwide Anglers Relief Fund was established in 2017 in partnership with Costa Sunglasses. Since its inception, the fund 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, according to the press release.
“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,” according to the press release. “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 Suncoast Waterkeeper and Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, visit their websites at www.suncoastwaterkeeper.org and www.tampabaywaterkeeper.org/
