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Friday, May. 15, 2026

Is Florida extending its Atlantic red snapper season?

Clinton Engelberger | Suncoast Searchlight, Suncoast Searchlight
yes

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Monday that the 2026 Atlantic red snapper season will last 39 days, much longer than the one or two days in previous years.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration placed restrictions on recreational fishing for red snapper in 2010 due to overfishing concerns. In subsequent years, the fishing season was limited, and in some years, it was prohibited entirely.

Last year, the federal red snapper season lasted two days.

Red snapper season is now under state management, and DeSantis said the species’ population has thrived enough to justify extending the recreational fishing season. 

The Atlantic red snapper season will take place May 22 through June 20, then resume on three different weekends in the fall: Oct. 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18.

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