Florida Trip, looking for suggestions

[Barro]

Sorry to intrude into your forum. I am coming in to south Florida the end of August for a scuba trip and I am hoping to get some inforamation on collecting and any "must see" shops/distributors in this area.

I am starting in Ft. Lauderdale and diving down through the keys. I have an unplanned trip (eat when you're hungry, sleep when you're tired and dive in between), so I have time for side excursions and I am hoping my second checked bag on the way bag will be a styro.

Also, any insight on collecting procedures would be great. I know live rock is a no-no, and I've seen the fish and wildlife requirements but I'd love some firsthand information.

I'd appreciate any help you could provide.

Thanks
Barry

[K9]

Well, it may be a little too far west for you if you're staying near the coast your whole trip, but Beverly's Pet Center (http://www.beverlyspet.com) is a pretty nice place. Horrible gouging on dry goods, but nice fish and coral prices. Locations are listed on their Web site.

This page might help you find out what's legal or not to harvest: http://myfwc.com/marine/

[Bullredchaser]

I like Reef Life ( http://www.daniareeflife.com/ ) alot,they have nice SPS and a good selection of LPS and Soft Coral.The store is strictly salt water with its concentration on reef.They also have the best liverock in town and its only 4 bucks a pound for fiji.The other benefit to this place is your just about a mile from Bass Pro Shops where you can go to there restraunt Islamorada Fish Co and have great fish sandwiches,sushi ,or just hang out at the marlin bar.