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Rules by state · Florida (Gulf)

Swordfishin Florida (Gulf)

Xiphias gladius

Recreational rule, FWC 2026, checked Sep 20, 2026. The official rulebook is the final word.

Studio photograph of a Swordfish (Xiphias gladius), side view, on a white background

The rule in Florida (Gulf)

Florida (Gulf)’s own rule for swordfish in state waters, out to 9 nautical miles.

Size47 in lower jaw fork length min
Bag1 per person; max 4 per private vessel
SeasonOpen year-round

HMS permit required in federal waters; report landings to NOAA within 24 hours.

FWC 2026· checked Open

Florida (Gulf) state record

612.75 lb, Key Largo, 1978. FWC Saltwater Fishing Records (All-Tackle) · checked 2026-08-23

How to tell it

Flat broad bill, huge eye, no scales or pelvic fins on adults. More on the swordfish page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.

Swordfish in other states

Florida (Atlantic)North CarolinaEvery state

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Point the camera at a swordfish in Florida (Gulf) and this rule is on the screen before you take the picture. No signal needed.

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Swordfish in Florida (Gulf): the questions

What is the size limit for swordfish in Florida (Gulf)?

47 in lower jaw fork length min.

How many swordfish can you keep in Florida (Gulf)?

1 per person; max 4 per private vessel.

When is swordfish season in Florida (Gulf)?

Open year-round.

What is the Florida (Gulf) record swordfish?

612.75 lb, Key Largo (1978).

How current is this Florida (Gulf) swordfish rule?

Source: FWC 2026, last checked Sep 20, 2026. A watchman re-reads the agency's pages nightly. Rules change mid-season by proclamation; the official rulebook is the final word.