The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has issued an executive order to modify the recreational season for greater amberjack in state waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The recreational season, initially set to open on August 1, will now commence on September 1 and remain open through October 31, 2024. During August, the recreational harvest of Gulf greater amberjack will remain closed.
The decision comes in response to the status of the Gulf greater amberjack stock, which is currently overfished and experiencing overfishing. This modification aligns with the new recreational season recommended by the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council for federal waters. Synchronizing state and federal seasons aims to prevent quota overages and mitigate risks of paybacks and seasonal closures.
For updated information on recreational amberjack regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and navigate to “Recreational Regulations,” “Reef Fish,” and “Amberjack.” The page will reflect the new season dates.
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