Governor Ron DeSantis announced today that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has formally submitted an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) to U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. The proposal aims to transfer management of the recreational red snapper fishery in Atlantic state and federal waters to Florida, effective in 2026.
If approved, the new state-led plan would dramatically expand the fishing opportunities for Atlantic red snapper from the two-day federal season allowed in 2025 to a total of 39 days .
The proposed 39-day season represents an enormous increase in access for anglers, leveraging a management strategy that Florida has successfully implemented in the Gulf of Mexico. The schedule is set to include:
- Summer: May 22 (Memorial Day Weekend) through June 20.
- Fall: Three-day weekends in October (Oct. 2–4, 9–11, and 16–18).
Governor DeSantis highlighted the success of state management in the Gulf, where the red snapper season has grown from 3 days to 127 days, and projected similar benefits for the Atlantic 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,” the Governor stated.
FWC Executive Director Roger Young affirmed the state’s capability, citing the Gulf experience as proof. “Florida has proven it can effectively and efficiently manage the Atlantic recreational red snapper fishery,” Young said, emphasizing the state’s dual commitment to conservation and expanding angler access.
The proposal is part of a broader push, supported by the Governors, Attorneys General, and Congressional delegations of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, to move control of the fishery from federal agencies to the states. Governor DeSantis also praised the Trump Administration’s Commerce Department, led by Secretary Lutnick, for supporting efforts to reverse federal control and empower state-led management.
Anglers are reminded that anyone fishing for red snapper from a private recreational vessel in either state or federal waters must be registered as a State Reef Fish Angler (with annual renewal). Registration is available at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. The Governor also took the opportunity to reinforce the ongoing Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday, which suspends sales tax on items for hunting, fishing, or camping.
READ: Florida Bears Are Extra Hungry: FWC Reminds Residents To Secure Attractants This Fall
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