According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, marine recreational anglers caught more than 33 million seatrout in 2004. That also made seatrout the most popular catch on the Gulf Coast. With closed seasons up and down Florida, one wonders how many trout would have been caught without them.

The report also showed recreational catches grew by 18 percent between 1995 and 2004, resulting in higher landings and more catch and release fishing than was previously done. Recreational fishing continues to be one of the most popular outdoor sports in the country, supporting nearly 350,000 jobs and contributing $30.5 billion to the national economy.

Anglers took nearly 74 million saltwater trips in 2004, about the same number as in 2003. Actual participation grew a modest three percent over that same time period, but it still reflects a growth industry. Figures were based on a marine recreational fisheries statistics survey.