The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has approved new rules for lane snapper fishing in the Gulf state waters. The decision was made during the commission’s November meeting and aims to align state regulations with current and upcoming federal guidelines.
The changes include raising the minimum size limit for both commercial and recreational catches from 8 inches to 10 inches total length. Additionally, a new recreational bag limit of 20 fish per person will be established.
According to the FWC, “These changes are intended to reduce the risk of overfishing, mitigate the likelihood of early closures, and increase consistency between Gulf state and federal waters.” The updated regulations for recreational fishing will take effect on April 1, 2026.
Further details about the meeting agenda and background reports can be found at MyFWC.com/About by selecting “The Commission” and then “Commission Meetings.”
