At its December meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a rule to modify the recreational season for greater amberjack in state waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This change aims to align with the new season in adjacent Gulf federal waters. The recreational season will now open from September 1 through October 31 each year.
The Gulf greater amberjack stock is currently overfished and experiencing overfishing. The modified season seeks to reduce harvests and improve the stock's status. Additionally, it offers more protection during the spawning period from March through May.
The changes to the Gulf greater amberjack recreational season will take effect on April 1, 2025.
For current regulations regarding recreational greater amberjack, individuals can visit MyFWC.com/Marine and navigate to “Recreational Regulations,” then “Reef Fish” and “Amberjack.” Updates with new season dates will be available on this page.
Further information about Commission meetings can be found at MyFWC.com/Commission by clicking on “Commission Meetings.”