Recreational fishing has been an intrinsic part of my family for over 50 years. In 1968, my father bought a small company that manufactured bait tanks. In 2005, I was lucky enough to take over my father’s place; still driving today and proudly call Clearwater home.

In my years of experience, I have seen how important fishing is to Florida families. Over 120,000 of us Floridians have been fortunate enough to make a living working in the fishing industry. More than 4 million anglers cast a line into our state’s waters each year. In total, recreational fishing provides nearly $14 billion annually to our state’s economy.

What statistics and numbers cannot capture, however, is the social value that fishing provides. Days on the water lead to lifelong memories with loved ones, cherished moments between parents and children, friends and even strangers. Fortunately, the Legislature has recognized the importance of recreational fishing and the many values ​​it provides.

This November, voters have a chance to enshrine their right to fish and hunt in our state constitution. Vote yes. Amendment 2 it means that future generations will be able to enjoy the same joy of reeling in a fish and the pain of losing the big one that I was so lucky to experience. It means that no matter who you are or where you come from, you will have not only the privilege, but the right to enjoy the bounty of Florida’s vast aquatic resources. Whether you’re chasing an offshore world record or just enjoying a relaxing day on a local pond, no one can take that away from you.

Opponents of this amendment call it unnecessary and tedious. Are they able to predict the future? Can I guarantee you that in five, 10, 50 years there will be no push to ban fishing and hunting? Last year in Oregon, a state known for its moose and salmon runs, voters proposed an amendment to criminalize fishing, hunting and trapping. Fortunately, it didn’t, but this misguided approach to wildlife management is sure to rear its ugly head again.

The 2nd Amendment FOREVER protects the right to fish and hunt in our state, regardless of who sits in the Governor’s Mansion and what party controls the Legislature.

Opponents also say this rule would set us back and legalize net fishing. This is simply not true – gill nets have been banned in Florida waters for 30 years. The ban is also recognized in our state constitution, passed by a voter referendum just like this one. Additionally, Amendment 2 does not undermine the authority of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) not at all. The FWC will continue to establish regulations, bag limits, seasons and legal fishing methods in all state waters.

Nor would a constitutional right to fish be unique to Florida. If passed, Florida will join 25 other states in protecting the rights of anglers and supporting our robust sportfishing economy.

I am proud to have been born and raised in Florida, universally known as the sportfishing capital of the world, where I have been fortunate enough to spend my entire life fishing the waters of our Gulf Coast and beyond. Learning how to fish from my father and passing that knowledge on to my children has instilled a deep love of fishing and a rich sense of community. I feel an obligation to protect the rights of my children and future generations to enjoy the same opportunities.

On November 5th, I will vote YES on Amendment 2, for my children, their children, and their children’s children. I hope you will join me.

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Clark Lea Jr. is the president of Marine Metal Products. Clark was born in Florida and has lived in Clearwater for 59 years.

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