Florida's lionfish challenge removes record number of invasive fish

Source: This report is based on an official public release from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. PULSE organizes and summarizes public government communications.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's annual Lionfish Challenge concluded with record participation, as 533 registered participants removed 36,187 invasive lionfish over 1,468 dive trips, according to the agency. This represents an increase of more than 5,000 lionfish compared to the 2025 challenge.

The competition expanded to include six award categories: Lionfish King, Lionfish Queen, Commercial Champion, Junior Champion, Veteran Champion, and Top Checkpoint. The winners were Hunter Ledbetter of Monroe County (Lionfish King, 1,541 lionfish), Helen Rodney of Broward County (Lionfish Queen, 1,488 lionfish), David Garrett of Volusia County (Commercial Champion, 1,136 pounds), Meagan Huffman of Texas (Junior Champion, 185 lionfish), Ledbetter again as Veteran Champion, and Dive Pros in Pensacola (Top Checkpoint, more than 5,000 lionfish tails).

"By removing 36,187 invasive lionfish from Florida's waters, participants are helping reduce pressure on native marine species, protect biodiversity, and preserve the health of our precious marine ecosystems," FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto said.

The FWC said participation is free and divers may compete from anywhere in Florida, with prizes awarded throughout the event based on the number of lionfish removed.