In a message dated 98-02-08 18:41:08 EST, you write:
 
>
>I stayed for a few days in Key West and then drove to Marco Island where my
>parents stay. Concerned about collecting laws, I contacted the Department of
>Marine Resources and the office of the marine patrol in Marathon by
>telephone. I was treated very politely and all involved were helpful. I was
>told that marine collecting in the counties I visited was limited to two
>specimens of any one species. Strombus gigas cannot be collected. A
>saltwater fishing license is required for marine shells ( I got a three day
>license at the K-Mart in Key West for $6.50). Live shelling is reportedly
>prohibited only at Sanibel. These folks could cite no controlling authority
>regulating freshwater or terrestrial collecting in Florida.
>
>
 
Dear Brian,
  There are presently two counties in Florida with the 2 specimen per species
limit. Lee and Manatee. As far as I know, that is all. There is no collecting
of Strombus gigas, or Liguus Tree Snails anywhere in Florida.  The Florida
Keys have their own confusing rules as to where you can collect and of course
no collecting in the National Parks ie: Pennekamp or Looe Key.  I heard about
Tigertail also.
 Just for a little added information.
                  Carole M