In response to the increase in dolphins taking bait and catch from anglers, we worked with NOAA’s Fisheries Service, Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute, fishing guides and anglers to develop a set of 10 tips that can improve the experience of the angler or boater while enhancing protection for dolphins. By making these cards available to boaters, anglers, and the general public, we hope that more individuals will become aware of the risks and legal issues involved when interacting with wild dolphins. Once aware of these issues, we expect that more people will choose to engage in responsible viewing and fishing practices when dolphins are present. The 3”x5” laminated folding card, intended to fit in pockets and tackle boxes, was initially developed through the support of the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund. More than 197,000 cards have been distributed since January 2008. Distribution through Florida and the southeastern United States has been coordinated by Robin Perrtree, with Jessica Powell delivering them to local (Sarasota and Manatee county) businesses, and Gene Stover helping with Venice area distribution. Funding for subsequent re-printings has been provided by Marineland: Dolphin Conservation Center, Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund, Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, and Fish Florida.
        Please contact our website (www.sarasotadolphin.org) if you have any further questions or would like to help distribute the cards. We will continue to make them available at no cost to those who can effectively distribute them to people likely to come into contact with wild dolphins. The cards, pictured inside the back cover, are available in English and Spanish as downloads at: www.sarasotadolphin.org.