Corals, Soft (Subclass Octocorallia) Regulations in Florida (2026)

Recreational corals, soft (subclass octocorallia) rules in Florida saltwater, as published by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Last checked November 7, 2026.

Bag limit

Bag Limits/Remarks: No more than 6 non-encrusting octocoral colonies…

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Recreational Corals, Soft (Subclass Octocorallia) rules in Florida

Where: Statewide
Bag limit: Bag Limits/Remarks: No more than 6 non-encrusting octocoral colonies per person per day within 20-organism aggregate; harvest of attached substrate within 1" of base is permitted as long as substrate remains attached to the octocoral; harvest of Venus Sea Fan ( Gorgonia flabellum) and Common (Purple) Sea Fan ( Gorgonia ventalina) is prohibited.

*Unless otherwise noted, combined bag limit of 20 marine life fish and invertebrates per person per day, only 5 of any one species allowed. A 2-day possession limit also applies (40 total organisms, only 10 of any one species).
**Such as groupers, snappers, seabass and amberjacks. Must abide by regulations for these species in Rule 68B-14 F.A.C.

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Quick answers

How many corals, soft (subclass octocorallia) can I keep in Florida?

Bag Limits/Remarks: No more than 6 non-encrusting octocoral colonies per person per day within 20-organism aggregate; harvest of attached substrate within 1" of base is permitted as long as substrate remains attached to the octocoral; harvest of Venus Sea Fan ( Gorgonia flabellum) and Common (Purple) Sea Fan ( Gorgonia ventalina) is prohibited..

More other species in Florida

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Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Most anglers need a Florida saltwater license or registry: get one here.