Florida has announced a fall season for private recreational anglers in the Gulf. It will be open to those fishing from private recreational vessels or state-permitted charter vessels without a federal reef fish permit. State-permitted charter vessels without a federal reef fish permit will be limited to harvesting in Florida Gulf state waters only.
The state season will include the following dates:
- Sept. 1–14
- Sept. 19–21
- Sept. 26–28
- Oct. 3–5
- Oct. 10–12
- Oct. 17–19
- Oct. 24–26
- Oct. 31–Nov. 2
- Nov. 7–9
- Nov. 11 (Veterans Day)
- Nov. 14–16
- Nov. 21–23
- Nov. 27–30 (Thanksgiving weekend)
- Dec. 5–7
- Dec. 12–14
- Dec. 19–21
- Dec. 25–28 (Christmas weekend)
Florida’s ability to offer this season is made possible by the data-driven management approach of the Florida State Reef Fish Survey and angler participation in the program.
Anyone fishing for red snapper from a private recreational vessel—in state or federal waters—must be registered as a State Reef Fish Angler (with annual renewal), even if exempt from fishing license requirements. This free designation is in addition to a regular fishing license. Register at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
