Anglers reel in invasive species at 2026 Southwest Florida Invasive Freshwater Fish Roundup

CAPE CORAL, Fla. —

The 2026 Southwest Florida Invasive Freshwater Fish Roundup, hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, wrapped up its last day on Sunday. It brought anglers together to remove invasive fish species and protect local waterways.

Last year, participants caught more than 16,000 fish, and organizers expect thousands more to be removed this year. Invasive fish are causing problems for native wildlife, damaging ecosystems, and even posing risks to people.

Michael Sipos, a Marine Extension Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Collier County, said, "We do a lot of cool research with the fish, and we do a lot of education and awareness on invasive species, because if you were to physically remove a lot of these invasive species, it's almost impossible."

With 147 registered participants, teams spread out across Southwest Florida, from canals and community ponds to the Everglades, all with the goal of removing as many invasive fish as possible. Many of these fish started as unwanted pets or escaped from aquaculture and are now taking over local habitats.

"The real long-term impact is educating the public on what is invasive species, to, you know, prevent any new ones from becoming released or established in our local environment and to, you know, really just sort of educate people on, you know, they're here among us and what they can do to help out," Sipos said.

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