Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the largest Gulf red snapper season in Florida’s history since the state assumed management of the fishery.
- The 2024 season will span a total of 103 days, surpassing the previous record set in 2023.
The Governor was set to make his announcement in Destin today, but the severe weather prevented him from landing at the airport.
In a video announcement, Governor DeSantis emphasized the state’s commitment to managing the Gulf red snapper population based on “accurate data,” ensuring that anglers have ample opportunities to enjoy this popular pastime.
The governor expressed his dissatisfaction with the federal government’s management of the Atlantic red snapper season, which he believes is not consistent with the abundance of fish in the Gulf.
- “Since I’ve been governor, I’ve told our guys that we need to expand opportunities for anglers to be able to do Gulf red snapper,” DeSantis said in the video. “We are going to have, by far, the largest Gulf red snapper season in the history of Florida, since we have assumed the management of this.”
The 2024 Gulf red snapper season will be open for the entire months of June and July, providing anglers with a substantial window.
Additionally, fishing will be permitted every weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) in September, October, and November, with extended days during Veterans Day weekend and Thanksgiving, according to DeSantis.
Governor DeSantis expressed hope that the state will eventually assume management of the Atlantic red snapper season as well, providing anglers on the east coast of Florida with similar opportunities.
“But in the meantime, enjoy this record-breaking Gulf red snapper season for 103 days. Just a few years ago, nobody thought that was possible,” he said.
