Staff report
Gov. Ron DeSantis came to Fernandina Beach on Monday to announce that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has submitted a proposal to federal officials seeking state management of the recreational Atlantic red snapper fishery.
“State management and expansion of Gulf snapper season have been a major boon for our Gulf of America communities, allowing so many Floridians and visitors to enjoy the Red Snapper our waters have to offer,” said Ron DeSantis in a recent release. “I was proud to announce that Florida anglers will soon be able to enjoy more Atlantic Red Snapper fishing as well.”
If approved by the Trump Administration, Florida would implement a 39-day Atlantic Red Snapper season, a dramatic expansion from the two-day federal season allowed in 2025. The proposed season includes a summer stretch from May 22 (Memorial Day Weekend) through June 20 and three-day weekends in October (Oct. 2–4, 9–11, and 16–18).
DeSantis emphasized the economic benefits to Northeast Florida. “Just as it has on the Gulf coast, Florida’s management of Atlantic Red Snapper fishing will boost local economies along our Atlantic coast, supporting tackle and bait shops, hotels, restaurants, and the entire recreational fishing community,” said Ron DeSantis in a recent release.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Executive Director Roger Young said the state is prepared to manage the Atlantic fishery using proven methods. “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, the state has expanded access for and delivered greater opportunities for anglers in the Gulf year after year—demonstrating a strong commitment to both conservation and the fishing community,” said Roger Young in a recent release.
Since assuming Gulf management, the Red Snapper season has risen from 3 to 127 days, an over 4100% increase for Florida’s Gulf anglers and for-hire operators.
Anyone planning to fish for red snapper from a private recreational vessel must be registered as a State Reef Fish Angler. Registration is available at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
