How to Measure Saltwater Fish

Most finfish size limit regulations of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) use either Fork Length or Total Length.   

Total Length Measurement

Total Length is now measured from the most forward point of the head, with the mouth closed, to the farthest tip of the tail with the tail compressed or squeezed, while the fish is lying on its side. Total length Species include:
Red Drum fish Mutton Snapper fish Yellowmouth Grouper
Fork Length Measurement - Fish regulated by fork length are measured from the tip of the jaw or tip of the snout with closed mouth to the center of the fork in the tail
Spanish Mackerel fish Hogfish Gray Trigger Fish
Fork Length Species Include: Fish Identification Florida
African Pompano
Amberjacks
Bluefish
Cobia
Dolphin
Gray Triggerfish
Hogfish
King Mackerel
Mullet
Permit
Pompano
Rudderfish
Spanish Mackerel