The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) 2026 Lionfish Challenge will begin on May 22 and end on Sept. 14. The event aims to engage participants in removing invasive lionfish from Florida’s waters while offering updated competition categories. This year’s challenge replaces the previous Recreational and Commercial Champion titles with new awards designed to recognize a broader range of participants. The new categories include Lionfish King for the top male recreational participant, Lionfish Queen for the top female recreational participant, and Commercial Champion for the top commercial participant. Additional awards will honor the Junior Harvester, the top recreational participant under 18, and the Veteran Champion, the top active-duty service member or veteran in the recreational division. The FWC will also recognize its Top Supporter and Top Lionfish Checkpoint Participant. The event’s organizers say the changes reflect efforts to expand participation and highlight diverse contributions to lionfish removal. The challenge is part of a statewide initiative to control lionfish populations, which have caused ecological harm in Florida’s marine environments. Participants can track their progress and learn about lionfish removal techniques through the FWC’s online portal. The competition is open to residents and visitors, with events held at multiple locations across Brevard County and other coastal areas. Details about registration, checkpoints, and prize packages are available on ReefRangers.MyFWC.com/Lionfish. The FWC encourages all interested individuals to join, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in managing invasive species. The challenge has become a popular annual event, drawing hundreds of participants each year. Local organizers say the new categories will make it easier for people of all ages and backgrounds to participate. The event also includes educational components, such as workshops on safe lionfish handling and the ecological impact of the species. The FWC plans to announce the winners in October 2026. For those interested in participating, the deadline to register is May 15. The challenge is free to join, with prizes funded by sponsorships from environmental groups and local businesses.