Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) invites you to attend the highly anticipated 8th International Science Symposium, the premier global gathering for flats fishery stakeholders. Join us November 7–8, 2025, at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina for two days of dynamic science-driven conservation programming and community engagement.
Why Cover This Event?
This event takes place only once every three years and provides media with a front row seat to the latest findings on flats fish and habitat and water issues—information that will inform policy and future conservation measures—and the opportunity to interview scientists, government officials, legendary fishing guides, top anglers, and fishing and boating industry leaders in a collaborative setting. Symposium participants will convene from the United States, The Bahamas, Belize, Mexico, and elsewhere. The event will also feature guest speakers who will be announced soon.
BTT’s 8th International Science Symposium will focus on critical fishery issues from the perspective of landscape conservation—an approach that tackles water quality issues and habitat loss at the largest and most meaningful scales possible, connecting lands and waters across county, state, and even international borders. This holistic approach is necessary to ensure the effective conservation of habitats and waterways that sustain healthy bonefish, tarpon, and permit populations.
While the Symposium is focused on science, policy, and education related to the flats fishery, the implications are much broader. Declines in estuary health, for example, impact property values, ecotourism, and quality of life for residents. What benefits the flats fishery also benefits regional populations and economies, so the topics addressed at the Symposium will appeal to a broad audience.
At the 8th International Science Symposium, journalists can:
· Get the latest updates from leading shark researchers on the dramatic rise in shark-angler interactions and how this urgent issue is being addressed in Florida and beyond.
· Hear from experts about the impacts of Florida’s outdated wastewater infrastructure on water quality and recreational fisheries—and learn about the science-based solutions.
· Learn from fisheries scientists about the ways that science and collaboration with the angling community are informing improved management for bonefish, tarpon, and permit—iconic species with immense economic and cultural value in Florida, The Bahamas, Belize, and Mexico.
Exclusive one-on-one meetings with leading scientists are available to members of the media on a limited basis, so be sure to register soon. Click here to view the Science Session summaries.
What to Expect at the 2025 Symposium
Actionable Science for Conservation – Learn about cutting-edge research shaping the future of flats fishery management, including habitat restoration, water quality solutions, and fisheries sustainability.
The Role of Watersheds in Coastal Health – Explore how land-based impacts, from agriculture to urban development, influence our coastal ecosystems and fish populations.
Guides & Anglers Roundtables – Gain insights from legendary guides and top anglers on the challenges they see on the water and the best paths forward for conservation.
Interactive Clinics – Learn from world-class anglers and guides in hands-on workshops designed for all skill levels.
Awards Banquet – Join us at the BTT Circle of Honor Dinner on November 7 as we recognize four leaders in flats conservation: BTT founding member Jeff Harkavy, acclaimed artist Tim Borski, and Chris and Wendi Peterson, the owners of Hell’s Bay Boatworks. Learn more about the honorees.
Media Participation & Access
Media attendees will have:
- Access to all science sessions and presentations
- Opportunities to interview leading researchers, policymakers, resource managers, award recipients, BTT leadership, top fishing guides and anglers, fishing and boating industry leaders
- Coverage of special events, including receptions and the awards banquet
- Meals during the two-day event
To request a full-access media pass and interview opportunities, please contact me at: nick@bonefishtarpontrust.org
Event Snapshot
| What: | 8th International Science Symposium – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust |
| When: | November 7–8, 2025 |
| Where: | Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina, Fort Lauderdale, FL |
| Why: | Conservation strategy through science, recognition of leaders, community engagement |
We look forward to your coverage of this critical event—where research meets action for the future of our flats fisheries.
