Mosquitofish Giveaway

Every year during the spring and summer we go to different locations and give away mosquitofish to residents. The annual mosquitofish giveaway events are free for anyone who lives in Hillsborough County.

Things to know about the events:

• To receive fish, you need a photo ID showing you live in Hillsborough County
• Staff will scan or enter your ID information into the County's mosquito database. After that step is completed, you will move up to next station to receive your mosquitofish.
• There are limited quantities. Mosquitofish are available while supplies last.

Mosquitofish facts

• Mosquitofish are small, native freshwater fish that eat mosquito larvae
• Place fish in standing water such as backyard ponds, fountains, animal troughs, and unused swimming pools to effectively and naturally manage mosquito populations
• They require no feeding, and care is limited to protecting them from garden sprays, chlorine, or other chemicals used for cleaning
• Mosquitofish do not lay eggs and require no special environment for breeding
• All of the County's mosquitofish are raised at Mosquito Management Services headquarters, making the operation more sustainable
• Homegrown fish are more likely to be healthier than fish transported from farms

2025 schedule and locations

Mosquitofish will be available, unless otherwise noted, from 8 AM to noon on the following Saturdays:

• March 29 - (9 AM) - Hillsborough County West Service Unit (Public Service Day), 9805 Sheldon Rd., Tampa, FL 33635
• April 26 - (9 AM - 1 PM) - Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33617
• May 17 - Southshore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin, FL 33573
• June 21 - Oscar Cooler Sports Complex, 766 W. Lutz Lake Fern Rd., Lutz, FL 33548
• July 19 - Fishhawk Sports Complex, 16000 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, FL 33547
• Aug. 23 - Northdale Park & Recreation Center, 15510 Hooting Owls Pl., Tampa, FL 33624

Visit our Mosquito Control section to learn more about spraying, our mosquito management program, information on how to prevent mosquitoes, and more.

Contact

For questions about the event call (813) 635-5400.