Cape Coral residents react to ‘no fishing’ signs at Jaycee Park

Nehilah Grand-PierreCAPE CORAL, Fla. —

“No fishing” signs at Jaycee Park in Cape Coral are drawing mixed reactions from neighbors.

Stephanie Rizzo, a Cape Coral resident, said, “There’s not a ton of space. With a lot of people fishing here, you know, not picking up their hooks, just leaving stuff all over the place with kids running around and pets.”

Tara Boccia, another resident who enjoys walking her dog at the park, questioned the fairness of the fishing restrictions.

“People come to Cape Coral to fish and to boat, and it’s a boating and fishing town. So, I mean, if they were coming here before and now, they’re not allowed to come here anymore, it’s like they’re acclimated to fishing here and it’s not fair to kick them out,” Boccia said.

A post about the signs garnered over 100 comments from people upset after noticing the “no fishing” signs at the park.

City officials said the no fishing rule is not about aesthetics but safety, explaining that loose hooks, lures, and weights can be dangerous.

Boccia also reflected on how the park has changed over time.

“It used to be beautiful; it’s beautiful now, but it’s nicer at night because in the daytime there’s no shade. I guess it was easier to fish back then with the shade and the trees and just a nice place to have a picnic,” Boccia said.

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