East Volusia News

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the record 103-day 2024 Gulf Red Snapper recreational season, the longest season since the state was delegated management of Gulf red snapper. This season will include both a summer and fall season which includes major holiday weekends such as Father’s Day, July 4th, and the Thanksgiving holiday.

"I am proud to announce that this snapper season will be the longest season since our state took over red snapper management in the Gulf," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "Florida is proud to be the Fishing and Boating Capital of the World."

"Under Governor DeSantis’ bold leadership, we are maintaining Florida as the Fishing and Boating Capital of the World with another record-breaking Gulf recreational red snapper season," said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Chairman Rodney Barreto.

"Anglers from all over the country look forward to Gulf recreational red snapper season and the iconic fishing opportunities Florida provides yearly," added Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Executive Director Roger Young.

The 2024 Gulf red snapper season for private recreational vessels or charter vessels will consist of a 61-day summer season starting on June 1 and ending on July 31. Additionally, a 42-day fall season is scheduled, spanning weekends from September to November.

Florida's ability to offer this extended season is attributed to data-driven management of the Red Snapper fishery on the Gulf Coast, contrasting with the limited federal management on the East Coast of the state. As a result, the expected Atlantic Red Snapper Season under federal management will last only 0-2 days.

In case of adverse weather conditions impacting fishing days, Florida authorities will assess the need for additional Gulf Red Snapper season dates later in the season. Anglers planning to fish for red snapper in state or federal waters from private recreational vessels are reminded to sign up as State Reef Fish Anglers at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

For more information on recreational snapper regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine.