Governor Ron DeSantis announced on May 12 the expansion of Florida’s recreational red snapper fishing seasons for 2026 and celebrated federal approval of an Exempted Fishing Permit, which allows the state to manage the Atlantic red snapper fishery in both state and federal waters beginning that year.
The changes mean anglers will have increased opportunities to fish for red snapper, with a record-long Gulf season of 140 days and a newly extended Atlantic season lasting 39 days. The move is expected to benefit Florida’s coastal communities by supporting businesses tied to recreational fishing.
“Florida is the most angler-friendly state in the nation, and under my leadership, we are committed to expanding and protecting recreational fishing opportunities,” said Governor DeSantis. “With a record 39-day Atlantic red snapper season and a record-breaking 140-day Gulf red snapper season, Florida is empowering our anglers, protecting our waters, strengthening our coastal economy. And this is just the beginning.”
The new Atlantic season marks an increase from just two days in 2025. The summer portion will run from May 22 through June 20, with additional three-day weekends in October. The Gulf private recreational season will begin May 22 (Memorial Day Weekend) through July 31 for summer dates; fall dates include several multi-day weekends stretching into January. FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto said, “This is a major milestone and success for Florida’s Atlantic red snapper anglers and the fishery overall… We thank Governor DeSantis for his continuous and consistent leadership and the Trump Administration for working with the State of Florida to support this state-led effort in providing more fishing opportunities to Floridians.”
Roger Young, Executive Director of FWC, said: “Florida has already demonstrated that it can manage the recreational red snapper fishery with precision and results… We’re ready to apply that same proven expertise to the Atlantic…” Jessica McCawley, Director at FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management added: “The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is leading the way… By pairing expanded access with improved data collection through Florida’s State Reef Fish Survey, we’re proving that smart, state-led management can deliver both better fishing experiences and a more sustainable future for this iconic species…”
Florida’s approach builds on previous success managing Gulf fisheries; under state control since earlier years, seasons grew from three days federally managed up to over four months now. This method uses real-time data collection tailored specifically for local conditions.
Martha Guyas from American Sportfishing Association called it “a monumental step,” while Trip Aukeman from Coastal Conservation Association praised increased access: “These exempted fishing permits will give Florida anglers … greater access … reduce reliance on a limited two-day season … provide more flexibility.” Jeff Angers of Center for Sportfishing Policy said: “Gov. DeSantis’ leadership … build[s] on that success giving South Atlantic anglers a long-overdue path toward more reasonable seasons…”
According to the official mission page, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission seeks to protect, conserve and manage fish and wildlife resources through research expertise while promoting public input in conservation decisions among diverse communities.
