Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a plan for the state to have more authority over its recreational red snapper fishery while speaking in Fernandina Beach this week. The proposal, submitted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) to U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, would allow Florida to manage red snapper in state and federal waters off the Atlantic Coast starting in 2026.
“State management and expansion of Gulf snapper season have been a major boon for our Gulf of America communities, allowing so many Floridians and visitors to enjoy the Red Snapper our waters have to offer,” DeSantis said in a press statement.
According to the governor's office, the plan would extend Florida's Atlantic red snapper season from two to 39 days. Previous guidelines set under the Biden administration were deemed too strict by several Florida officials, including Sen. Rick Scott.
NOAA issued a one-day recreational snapper season due to overfishing in the South Atlantic last year.
“I was proud to announce that Florida anglers will soon be able to enjoy more Atlantic Red Snapper fishing as well. The Trump Administration has taken action to rein in the bureaucracy and return this power to the states, where it belongs," DeSantis continued.
If approved, the new season would run from May 22 (Memorial Day Weekend) through June 20 and three-day weeks in October (Oct. 2–4, 9–11, and 16–18). The move would also align with the same process used in the Gulf of America.
"Just as it has on the Gulf coast, Florida’s management of Atlantic Red Snapper fishing will boost local economies along our Atlantic coast, supporting tackle and bait shops, hotels, restaurants, and the entire recreational fishing community," DeSantis said.
Gov. DeSantis, along with other southern state governors, also called for a change in a June letter to Lutnick.
“Florida has proven it can effectively and efficiently manage the Atlantic recreational red snapper fishery,” FWC Executive Director Roger Young said. “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, the state has expanded access for and delivered greater opportunities for anglers in the Gulf year after year—demonstrating a strong commitment to both conservation and the fishing community."
