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DeSantis Unveils Tampa Bay Fishing Pier Repairs and Construction

3/31/2026

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Center

DeSantis Announces Pier Project

Governor Ron DeSantis announced a Tampa Bay fishing piers construction and repair project after Hurricane Milton.
The plan includes a new pier in Manatee County and repairs to the Pinellas County pier.
Work is already underway to maintain fishing access during construction.
A study shows more than half of North Florida shrimp labeled as Mayport shrimp are imported, prompting the Southern Shrimp Alliance to seek transparent labeling.

Right

Rodriguez Lands Swordfish

On February 18, Captain Jose Rodriguez Jr., from Cudjoe Key, Florida, and a Pennsylvania family caught a 480-pound swordfish, one of the largest in the Florida Keys.
The group fought the fish for five hours before landing it.
Rodriguez, who runs Above & Below Fishing Adventures, joked about his newfound local celebrity status.
The group kept 20–30 pounds of meat and donated the rest to the community.

History

Historical Context

Hurricane Milton struck Florida on October 9, 2024, as a Category 3 hurricane, causing extensive damage and spawning a record 46 tornadoes. This disaster highlighted ongoing issues in the seafood industry, with over 50% of North Florida's shrimp labeled as local being imported. Recovery efforts, including Governor Ron DeSantis's fishing piers project, aim to support local fishing economies and promote sustainable practices.

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DeSantis Announces Pier Project

Governor Ron DeSantis announced a Tampa Bay fishing piers construction and repair project after Hurricane Milton.
The plan includes a new pier in Manatee County and repairs to the Pinellas County pier.
Work is already underway to maintain fishing access during construction.
A study shows more than half of North Florida shrimp labeled as Mayport shrimp are imported, prompting the Southern Shrimp Alliance to seek transparent labeling.

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