Why It Matters: Rodman Reservoir, constructed in 1968, is a 9,500-acre reservoir in Northeast Florida and is one of the premier largemouth bass fisheries in the world. For decades, there have been efforts led by environmental groups to destroy Rodman Reservoir in favor of “restoring” the Ocklawaha River with vague goals and objectives, jeopardizing a staple of the recreational fishing community.
Highlights:
- Last year, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) submitted comments to Governor DeSantis’ office requesting a line-item veto of a $6.25 million appropriation to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to “restore” the Oklawaha River through the destruction of Rodman Reservoir.
- There was no accompanying legislation, and the goals of “partial restoration” were loosely defined with no clear picture of what long-term restoration success looked like. Governor DeSantis accepted the line-item veto request.
- On January 5, 2026, Representative Wyman Duggan introduced HB 981, which requires DEP to develop a project plan for the restoration of the Ocklawaha River. SB 1066, by Senator Jason Brodeur, is the identical, companion bill.
- On January 20, HB 981 passed the House Natural Resources and Disasters Subcommittee 16-0. SB 1066 passed the Senate Natural Resources and Environment Subcommittee 8-0.
Rodman Reservoir is one of the nation’s most celebrated largemouth bass destinations. Over its long history, the reservoir has provided countless families and outdoor enthusiasts with unforgettable experiences, whether it’s catching 13+ pound trophy largemouth bass or enjoying a day out on the water with the family. Removing it would threaten local heritage and well-established economic benefits to area businesses such as bait shops, hotels, rental properties, restaurants, and more.
In addition to DEP having a restoration plan completed by July 1, 2027, HB 981 also requires the DEP, in collaboration with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Northeast Florida River and Springs Recreation and Economic Development Advisory Council, and local governments, to develop an outdoor recreation plan. The outdoor recreation plan must identify and implement projects for enhanced and expanded river and springs access for recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, swimming, wildlife viewing, paddling, and hiking. A 15-member advisory council would also be established with the passage of this bill, with the goal of providing recommendations for the project. However, only one member of this council is required to represent the recreational fishing community. Similar to last year, what exactly long-term “restoration” looks like with Rodman now being nearly 60 years old remains unclear.
CSF will continue to work alongside our partners to support Rodman Reservoir and advocate on behalf of the recreational fishing community that has its roots in this historic fishery.
