NOAA Gag Grouper
On January 1, several species of grouper will close to recreational and commercial fishermen in Florida state waters of the Atlantic, including Monroe County. This seasonal closure includes gag, black, red, yellowmouth, yellowfin and tiger grouper; scamp; red hind; rock hind; coney; and graysby. State waters in the Atlantic range from shore out to 3 nautical miles.
The closed season for these grouper species in Florida Atlantic state waters will remain in effect through April 30 and reopen on May 1. The temporary closure was established to ensure the long-term sustainability of Atlantic grouper species.
A similar closure will also occur in federal waters of the Atlantic. Tiger grouper is not included in the federal closure.
Grouper information, including Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic grouper regulations, is available online. Go to MyFWC.com/Fishing and select “Saltwater” then “Recreational Regulations” and “Groupers.”
