Florida extending 2023 Gulf recreational red snapper season by 17 days to a record 87 days
FWC photo of angler with red snapper.
Tallahassee, Florida - On August 11, 2023, it was announced that Florida is extending its already record 2023 recreational Gulf red snapper season by 17 days, adding every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in September, October and November, plus one Thursday and one Monday, to the previously announced season. As a result, the 2023 season now totals 87 days, the longest combined season since the state assumed management of red snapper. The specific dates are listed below in bold print.
Anglers fishing from private recreational vessels in state and federal waters in the Gulf, and also 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.
“The Gulf red snapper season brings anglers from across the country to enjoy this recreational opportunity,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young. “Being able to extend the season seventeen days will allow additional access and opportunities to all who want to experience the Fishing Capital of the World.”
Updated fall season dates:
September 1–4 (Friday–Monday of Labor Day Weekend)
September 8–10
September 15–17
September 22–24
September 29–October 1
October 6–8
October 13–15
October 20–22
October 27–29
November 3–5
November 10–12 (Friday-Sunday of Veterans Day Weekend)
November 17–19
November 23–26 (Thursday-Sunday of Thanksgiving Weekend)
Make your plans to get on the water, and if you want to fish for red snapper in state or federal waters from a private recreational vessel, even if you are exempt from fishing license requirements, you must sign up as a State Reef Fish Angler (annual renewal is required) at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
Find more on recreational snapper regulations here: myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/snappers.