DeSantis Requests Federal Disaster Declaration for Fishing Industry Hurt by Hurricane Ian

PUNTA GORDA (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis requested the U.S. Secretary of Commerce issue a federal fisheries disaster to provide access to funding for fisheries to rebuild.

Hurricane Ian affected the industry by damaging boats, canceling charter fishing trips, and making it more difficult to navigate waterways and roadways.

“The fishing community stepped up to help their neighbors when Hurricane Ian hit, and now they need our help to stay afloat,” DeSantis said.

“I officially requested the federal government to declare a fisheries disaster to provide access to funding to support our fisherman in their recovery. While we await the federal government’s decision, I will continue to make zero interest loans available to help our captains and fishermen rebuild.”

The disaster declaration would help replace fishermen’s lost income and help rebuild their businesses. Florida leads the nation in the number of saltwater fishing anglers. The industry has a $9.2 billion impact on Florida’s economy.

Here is the letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce.