that some of you may want to read a response from the FWC before someone gets into possiable trouble for not having a permit from the state if it applies to the specific body of water.
Response (LE-RB) 11/12/2009 08:37 AM
The public can create attractors in private ponds, and with a permit from DEP may be able to place them in public waters.
Brush attractors help concentrate fish where anglers can catch them easily. Fish are attracted to brush piles in search of food and protection from predators. Oak, citrus and hardwood trees, are all good attractor materials. Green trees with numerous small limbs are best and sink with a minimum weighting material. Christmas trees are sometimes used but tend to break down quickly and don't make the best attractors. Rock piles, plastic pipe, concrete culverts and wood boxes also can provide shelter areas. If a sandy or gravel bottom is not present, areas 5'(W) X 20' (L)X 4" (D) of #57 lime rock create attractors and spawning areas for largemouth bass and bream. There are also many man-made attractors on the market, such as the crappie condos some have inquired about, which eliminates refurbishing natural materials. Three-feet of clearance from the top of the attractor to water surface should be maintained at all times.
Placing any of these type attractors in public water bodies or lakes owned by two or more parties requires a dredge-and-fill permit from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). For specific information about permitting requirements visit the DEP at
FDEP Environmental Resource Permitting (ERP) Dredge and Fill Fact Sheet.