Fishing, From The State

Gov. DeSantis announces record 70-Day 2023 Gulf Red Snapper Recreational Season

Governor Ron DeSantis announced today, May 4, 2023, that Florida will have a 70-day Gulf red snapper recreational season this year, which will be the longest combined season since the […]

Jared Williams

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Governor Ron DeSantis announced today, May 4, 2023, that Florida will have a 70-day Gulf red snapper recreational season this year, which will be the longest combined season since the state took over management of the fish.

The season will comprise of a 46-day summer season and a 24-day fall season, providing more opportunities for fishing enthusiasts to enjoy the Gulf waters.

The 46-day summer season will begin on June 16, 2023, and will run through July 31, 2023. The 24-day fall season will include all weekends in October and November, Friday-Sunday, and has been scheduled for the following dates:

October 6-8
October 13-15
October 20-22
October 27-29
November 3-5
November 10-12 (Veterans Day Weekend)
November 17-19
November 24-26 (Weekend after Thanksgiving)

Those fishing from private recreational vessels in state and federal waters in the Gulf and charter vessels without a federal reef fish permit that are limited to fishing in state waters will be able to participate in the 2023 Gulf red snapper season.

Gov. DeSantis (left) talks with Capt. Kelly Windes (right) at Aj’s Seafood and Oyster Bar in Destin, Florida. The FAD network is named after Capt. Windes.

However, it’s important to note that even if you’re exempt from fishing license requirements, you must sign up as a State Reef Fish Angler (annual renewal required) at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com to fish for red snapper in state or federal waters from a private recreational vessel.

The Governor also announced a budget approval of $17 million in the Fiscal Year 2023-24 to support continued oyster restoration efforts in Apalachicola Bay.

“Florida is the Fishing Capital of the World, and the gulf red snapper season brings anglers from across the country to enjoy our waters,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “It is a generational tradition for so many who call Florida home. I am happy that 2023 will be by far the longest combined season since the state assumed management of red snapper.”

If you’re interested in learning more about recreational snapper regulations, please visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website.

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