DeSantis announces 57-day Gulf red snapper season

During a visit to Destin, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the 2022 Gulf red snapper recreational season, which will total 57 days, the longest season since the state assumed management of red snapper.

This will include both a summer and fall season.

Those fishing from private recreational vessels in state and federal waters in the Gulf of Mexico and charter vessels without a federal reef fish permit, who are limited to fishing in state waters, will be able to participate in the 2022 Gulf red snapper season.

“Snapper season is one of the most exciting times to be fishing in Florida, and I am excited to announce the longest season since the state took over management of red snapper,” said DeSantis said at a press conference.

“People travel from all over to enjoy the recreational opportunities we have in Florida that can’t be found anywhere else.”

The 45-day summer season will begin on June 17 and continue through July 31.

A 12-day fall season spans the following dates:

October 8-9
October 15-16
October 22-23
November 11-13
November 25-27

“On behalf of FWC and our Commissioners, we would like to thank Governor DeSantis for his leadership on this issue,” said Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission Chairman Rodney Barreto.

“We are proud to be able to provide fishing opportunities to the residents and visitors of the State, maintaining that Florida is the Fishing and Boating Capital of the World.”

“Up here in the Panhandle, the red snapper is one of our most important fisheries,” said Justin Leake, the owner of Panama City Inshore.

Those planning to fish for red snapper in state or federal waters from a private recreational vessel, even if they are exempt from fishing license requirements, must sign up as a State Reef Fish Angler (annual renewal required) at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.