Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced an extension of the 2024 Gulf Red Snapper recreational season by 17 days. This decision allows Florida anglers more opportunities to fish during the holiday season. The announcement aligns with the reopening of the 2024 Recreational For-Hire Season by NOAA.
"Because of our good state stewardship, we can offer these extra Gulf Red Snapper days during December," stated 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."
Governor DeSantis had previously declared a record 103-day Gulf Red Snapper recreational season earlier this year. He mentioned that adjustments would be made if necessary due to the Atlantic Hurricane Season's impact. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has confirmed that these additional days will not affect next year's fishing prospects.
The revised schedule for the remainder of the 2024 season includes:
- November 22-24
- November 28-30 (Thanksgiving Holiday)
- December 6-8
- December 13-15
- December 20-22
- December 24-31 (Christmas Eve through New Year's Eve)
"We’re excited to offer anglers additional fishing days during December for Gulf recreational red snapper," said Roger Young, Executive Director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "The holiday season is a great time to enjoy Florida’s iconic fisheries with family and friends."
This extension follows another recent announcement by Governor DeSantis regarding discounts on fishing and hunting licenses for Florida residents. These discounts include half-off short-term licenses from October 25, 2024, to January 3, 2025, as well as a significant reduction in lifetime sportsman licenses for children up to age 17.
Discounted prices for lifetime sportsman licenses are as follows:
- Age 4 or younger: $200 (normally $400)
- Ages 5 to 12: $350 (normally $700)
- Ages 13 to 17: $500 (normally $1,000)
Residents can purchase these discounted licenses online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, at local tax collector’s offices, or via the Fish|Hunt FL App available on Apple and Android devices. Additionally, one-year and five-year Gold Sportsman licenses are available at participating license agents.