Governor Ron DeSantis has announced an extension to the 2024 Gulf Red Snapper recreational season, adding 17 more days for fishing. This decision comes as a response to the disruptions caused by recent hurricanes, aiming to provide Florida families and visitors additional opportunities during the holiday season.
“Because of our good state stewardship, we can offer these extra Gulf Red Snapper days during December,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Many Floridians are still recovering from the impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and I hope this extended season allows families to enjoy fishing together this holiday season.”
The original plan set forth by Governor DeSantis included a record 103-day Gulf Red Snapper recreational season. However, it was noted that adjustments could be made in light of any impact from the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) supports these additional days while ensuring a robust season next year.
Roger Young, Executive Director of FWC, expressed enthusiasm about the extension: “We’re excited to offer anglers additional fishing days during December for Gulf recreational red snapper. The holiday season is a great time to enjoy Florida’s iconic fisheries with family and friends.”
The revised schedule includes fishing days on November 22-24, November 28-30 (Thanksgiving Holiday), December 6-8, December 13-15, December 20-22, and December 24-31 (Christmas Eve through New Year's Eve).
In addition to extending the fishing season, Governor DeSantis recently announced discounts on fishing and hunting licenses for Florida residents. These include half-off short-term licenses from October 25, 2024, to January 3, 2025, and a significant discount on lifetime sportsman licenses for children up to age 17.
Discounted rates are $200 for ages four or younger (normally $400), $350 for ages five to twelve (normally $700), and $500 for ages thirteen to seventeen (normally $1,000). Annual saltwater and freshwater combo licenses are also available for just $5.
Residents can purchase these discounted licenses online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or in person at local tax collector offices. They are also available through the Fish|Hunt FL App on Apple and Android devices. One-year and five-year Gold Sportsman licenses can be purchased at participating license agents.