Florida’s 2025 Gulf private recreational red snapper fall season will open to anglers fishing from private recreational vessels or state-permitted charter vessels that do not have a federal reef fish permit. State-permitted charter vessels without a federal reef fish permit are restricted to harvesting only in Florida Gulf state waters.
The season is set for the following dates: September 1–14, September 19–21, September 26–28, October 3–5, October 10–12, October 17–19, October 24–26, October 31–November 2, November 7–9, November 11 (Veterans Day), November 14–16, November 21–23, November 27–30 (Thanksgiving weekend), December 5–7, December 12–14, December 19–21 and December 25–28 (Christmas weekend).
Florida officials attribute the ability to offer this extended season to their management strategy. “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 SRFS,” according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
All anglers targeting red snapper from a private recreational vessel—regardless of whether they are fishing in state or federal waters—must be registered as a State Reef Fish Angler with annual renewal. This registration is required even if an angler is exempt from fishing license requirements. The designation is free but must be added in addition to any required fishing license. Registration can be completed at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
Additional information about recreational snapper regulations can be found on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website at https://myfwc.com/marine/.
