The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has been awarded three Exempted Fishing Permits by NOAA Fisheries to conduct three unique studies. The studies will collect better data on Atlantic red snapper and other snapper-grouper species to improve management of these critical species in the south Atlantic. EFPs are permits that allow harvesting for specific purposes that are otherwise prohibited under current federal regulations. These studies will enable FWC to collaborate with anglers, test innovative ways to reduce red snapper discards, increase harvest opportunities and improve angler satisfaction. The FWC recognizes that a 1-day federal Atlantic red snapper season is disappointing, but in these studies, some participants will be selected to catch (and keep!) red snapper during a time that works for you!    

The three studies of this project will take place off Florida’s east coast from the Florida/Georgia line south to the Dry Tortugas. Two studies, the FWC Study Fleet and the FWC Hot Spot Fleet, will be conducted from the Florida/Georgia line south to the NASA Assembly building in Cape Canaveral. The third study, named the FWC Southeast Florida Snapper Grouper Fleet, will be conducted from the NASA Assembly building south to the Dry Tortugas. Each study is somewhat different, but all focus on testing an aggregate snapper-grouper bag limit to reduce discards, improved reporting of catch and discard information via an FWC app, and evaluating angler satisfaction of EFP participants relative to those who have to abide by federal regulations. Anglers will be selected quarterly, and the project is projected to run through August 2025.

“For years, FWC has heard that anglers want to directly provide data to improve the management of Atlantic red snapper,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “This is your opportunity to do so! Your participation is not just desired; it's essential for these studies to be a success and improve management.”

“Like you, FWC is frustrated with the current state of Atlantic red snapper management. We recognize that people are seeing more red snapper than ever on the water. These particular EFPs try to turn discarded fish into landed catch and improve angler satisfaction by testing different management measures. We hope you will join us and directly contribute to improving fisheries management in the south Atlantic,” said Jessica McCawley, Director of FWC’s Division of Marine Fisheries Management.

The FWC strongly encourages recreational saltwater anglers to apply to participate through the Go Outdoors Florida application or by visiting MyFWC.com/AtlanticEFP for more information. The application process is designed to be simple and straightforward, ensuring that everyone can easily apply. The first application period is open July 8-17, with three additional application periods that will open this October plus in January and April of 2025. The application period will remain open for 10 days, and participants will be selected by a lottery system. If you have any questions about the application process, please don't hesitate to contact us at the DMFM main office at 850-487-0554. 

The FWC is incredibly excited to offer this unique opportunity. This collaboration has the potential to make a significant difference and improve fisheries management in the south Atlantic, giving us all hope for a better future.

The recreational harvest of snowy grouper and red porgy in state waters of the Atlantic will close on July 1, with the last day of harvest for both species being June 30. Recreational harvest of snowy grouper will also close in all state waters of Monroe County. Harvest will reopen for both snowy grouper and red porgy in Atlantic state waters on May 1, 2025.

Last year, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved recreational management changes for both snowy grouper and red porgy to be consistent with recent federal changes. These seasonal harvest closures help conserve Florida’s valuable fisheries for the future.

For current recreational snowy grouper or red porgy regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations” then “Reef Fish” and then “Grouper” or “Red Porgy.” You can also download the Fish Rules App to keep up to date on current recreational regulations.

The recreational harvest of gag grouper in state waters of the Atlantic Ocean, including all state waters off Monroe County, closes at 12:01 a.m. on June 15, consistent with the closure in adjacent federal waters.

At its May 2024 meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) issued an executive order to close recreational harvest of gag grouper on June 15 in state waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Consistent state and federal recreational seasons for Atlantic gag grouper will help protect the gag grouper population and rebuild the fishery, while also helping to ensure future harvest opportunities. 

For current recreational gag grouper regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations” and “Grouper.”

Recreational harvest of Atlantic greater amberjack, red porgy, hogfish, blueline tilefish and several grouper will open May 1 

Several reef fish species will open to recreational harvest May 1 in Florida state waters of the Atlantic, as outlined below. 

Greater amberjack and red porgy will open to recreational harvest in all Florida state waters of the Atlantic. 

Blueline tilefish and several species of grouper including: gag, black, red, yellowmouth and yellowfin grouper; scamp; red hind; rock hind; coney and graysby will open to recreational harvest in all Florida state waters of the Atlantic and all state waters of Monroe County. 

Lastly, hogfish will open for recreational harvest in all state waters on the east coast of Florida as well as all state waters south of Cape Sable, including the Florida Keys. 

More information about specific fishing seasons,  bag and size limits, and gear restrictions for these species is available online at MyFWC.com/Marine; select “Recreational Regulations.” You can also download the Fish Rules App at Instagram.com/FishRulesApp or Facebook.com/FishRulesApp. 

The FWC is committed to collecting critical data on recreational fishing effort and catch to inform management of popular reef fish, including gag grouper and hogfish. The State Reef Fish Survey provides the FWC with a clearer picture of stock health, please make sure you are signed up as a State Reef Fish Angler. This designation is required for recreational anglers and spearfishers who intend to fish for or harvest certain reef fish species from a private vessel in Florida. To learn more about the State Reef Fish Survey, visit MyFWC.com/SRFS.

New regulations for snook in state waters, including inland waters, and adjacent federal waters began Jan. 1, 2024.

These regulation changes:

• Established nine snook management regions.
• Established closed seasons as well as bag and slot limits for each management region, which are detailed below.

To harvest snook recreationally in Florida state, adjacent federal and inland waters, a snook permit and recreational saltwater fishing license are required.

The regions are part of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) holistic management approach for Florida's most popular inshore fisheries. Through this approach, seven metrics are used to evaluate the fishery by region, adding a holistic perspective to management decisions and allowing the FWC to be more responsive to regional concerns.

 

Panhandle, Big Bend, Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay

Closed season: December 1 to end of February and May 1 to August 31

Open season: March 1 to April 30 and September 1 to November 30

Bag limit: one fish

Slot limit: 28–33 inches

 

Charlotte Harbor, Southwest

Closed season: December 1 to end of February and May 1 to September 30

Open season: March 1 to April 30 and October 1 to November 30

Bag limit: one fish

Slot limit: 28–33 inches

 

Southeast, Indian River Lagoon, Northeast

Closed season: December 15 to January 31 and June 1 to August 31

Open season: February 1 to May 31 and September 1 to December 14

Bag limit: one fish

Slot limit: 28–32 inches

 

• Indian River Lagoon Region - FWC Snook Regulations.pdf
• Southeast Region - FWC Snook Regulations.pdf
• Panhandle Region - FWC Snook Regulations.pdf
• Northeast Region - FWC Snook Regulations.pdf
• Sarasota Bay Region - FWC Snook Regulations.pdf
• Tampa Bay Region - FWC Snook Regulations.pdf
• Big Bend Region - FWC Snook Regulations.pdf
• Charlotte Harbor Region - FWC Snook Regulations.pdf
• Southwest Region - FWC Snook Regulations.pdf

 

For more details, visit MyFWC.com/Snook.

Recreational harvest of Atlantic greater amberjack closes April 1

The recreational harvest of greater amberjack in Atlantic state waters will close on April 1 and remain closed through April 30.

Last year, the FWC Commission approved a rule to establish an April recreational spawning season closure consistent with the current commercial closure. The new rule went into effect in late 2023, following the implementation of consistent regulations for adjacent Atlantic federal waters.

Cooperative greater amberjack management between Atlantic state and federal waters helps to provide additional harvest opportunities, conservation benefits and help ensure the stock remains sustainable for the future.

For current recreational amberjack regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations”, then select “Reef Fish” and “Amberjack.”

QUESTIONS? Contact the FWC

Recreational harvest of snook for Florida’s West Coast will open March 1 

The recreational harvest of snook in the Panhandle, Big Bend, Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay, Charlotte Harbor and Southwest management regions will open March 1, and remain open through April 30. This includes all Florida state and inland waters as well as adjacent federal waters within each management region. 

These regions and regulations are part of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) holistic management approach for Florida's most popular inshore fisheries. Through this approach, seven metrics are used to evaluate the fishery by region, adding a holistic perspective to management decisions and allowing the FWC to address regional concerns. To learn more, visit MyFWC.com/Snook. 

Panhandle

Open season:  March 1 – April 30 and Sept. 1 – Nov. 30.

Closed season: Dec. 1 – end of Feb. and May 1 – Aug. 31.

Bag limit: One fish per person per day.

Slot limit: 28–32 inches total length.

Boundaries: The western boundary is the Florida-Alabama border and the region extends to the eastern coastal boundary at 84°20.800ꞌ West Longitude in Franklin County near Alligator Point. Includes all inland waters of the counties named and colored yellow on the map. Does not include all waters of the Ochlockonee Bay, the Ochlockonee River and its tributaries.

Big Bend

Open season:  March 1 – April 30 and Sept. 1 – Nov. 30.

Closed season: Dec. 1 – end of Feb. and May 1 – Aug. 31.

Bag limit: One fish per person per day.

Slot limit: 28–32 inches total length.

Boundaries: The western coastal boundary is 84°20.800ꞌ West Longitude in Franklin County near Alligator Point. The region extends east and south to Fred Howard Park, near the border of Pasco and Pinellas counties. Includes all waters of the Ochlockonee, Withlacoochee and Anclote rivers and their tributaries. This region also includes all inland waters of the counties named and colored yellow on the map.

Tampa Bay

Open season:  March 1 – April 30 and Sept. 1 – Nov. 30.

Closed season: Dec. 1 – end of Feb. and May 1 – Aug. 31.

Bag limit: One fish per person per day.

Slot limit: 28–32 inches total length.

Boundaries: The northern coastal boundary is Fred Howard Park, near the border of Pasco and Pinellas counties and the region extends south to State Road 64 in Manatee County. Includes all inland waters of the area colored yellow on the map. Includes all waters of the Alafia, Braden, Manatee, and Hillsborough rivers and their tributaries. Does not include the waters of Palma Sola Bay and all waters of the Anclote River and its tributaries. 

Sarasota Bay

Open season:  March 1 – April 30 and Sept. 1 – Nov. 30.

Closed season: Dec. 1 – end of Feb. and May 1 – Aug. 31.

Bag limit: One fish per person per day.

Slot limit: 28–32 inches total length.

Boundaries: The northern coastal boundary is State Road 64 in Manatee County and the region extends south to 27°04.727’ North Latitude, near the Venice Municipal Airport. Includes all waters of Palma Sola Bay, Phillippi Creek, Cow Pen Slough Canal and Curry Creek. Includes all inland waters of the are colored yellow on the map. Does not include the waters of the Braden and Manatee rivers.

Charlotte Harbor

Open season:  March 1 – April 30 and Oct. 1 – Nov. 30.

Closed season: Dec. 1 – end of Feb. and May 1 – Sept. 30.

Bag limit: One fish per person per day.

Slot limit: 28–32 inches total length.

Boundaries: The northern coastal boundary is 27°04.727’ North Latitude, near the Venice Municipal Airport, and the region extends south to 26°15.227’ North Latitude, near Vanderbilt Beach Road in Collier County. Includes all inland waters of the area colored yellow on the map. Includes all waters of the Caloosahatchee, Myakka and Peace rivers and their tributaries. Does not include Lake Okeechobee.

Southwest

Open season:  March 1 – April 30 and Oct. 1 – Nov. 30.

Closed season: Dec. 1 – end of Feb. and May 1 – Sept. 30.

Bag limit: One fish per person per day.

Slot limit: 28–32 inches total length.

Boundaries: The northern boundary is 26°15.227’ North Latitude, near Vanderbilt Beach Road in Collier County, and the region extends through the Florida Keys to the Monroe/Miami-Dade county line. Includes all inland waters of the area colored yellow on the map and all waters of Everglades National Park.

For more information on recreational snook regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Snook. This page includes the snook annual reviews that provide summaries of key findings from the annual evaluation of management metrics for each region.

FWC approves Pasco Zone bay scallop season change 

At its February meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a change to the bay scallop season for the Pasco Zone management region. This regulation change, which goes into effect this year, sets a 40-day season for the Pasco Zone that starts on July 10 and will run through Aug. 18 annually. The long-term season dates were informed by the 2023 post-season monitoring results by FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute as well as input received from stakeholders at virtual public workshops, in-person meetings and public comments.  

“Along with moving away from the Independence Day holiday, the longer season will increase both the public’s safety and access to one of our state’s most fun family resources,” said FWC Commissioner Preston Farrior. “There will be many positive impacts for the local communities.” 

The Pasco Zone bay scallop region includes all state waters between the Hernando – Pasco county line and the Anclote Key Lighthouse in northern Pinellas County, and includes all waters of the Anclote River. 

For more information, including the February 2024 Commission meeting presentation, visit MyFWC.com/Commission and click on “Commission Meetings.” 

For current recreational bay scallops regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Scallops.

Recreational regulation changes for Atlantic snowy grouper begin Feb. 25 

Starting Feb. 25, the snowy grouper recreational season will close in Atlantic state waters, including all state waters of Monroe County. The modified recreational season is May 1 through June 30, with a new reduced possession limit of one fish per vessel per day. These changes are consistent with regulations in adjacent Atlantic federal waters. 

Last year, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved recreational management changes for snowy grouper and several other reef fish to be consistent with recent federal changes. Consistent regulations between state and federal waters can help improve the stock status of these fisheries, prevent federal closures while allowing harvest opportunities coast-wide and aid in enforcement. 

For current recreational snowy grouper regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations,” “Reef Fish” and then “Grouper,” or download the Fish Rules App.

FWC to meet Feb. 21-22 in Tallahassee

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will meet in person Feb. 21-22 at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, Meeting Room A, 505 W. Pensacola St., Tallahassee, Florida, 32301. The meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. ET each day and is open to the public.

The FWC is committed to providing opportunities for public input. There are several opportunities prior to the Commission meeting to provide comments. Also, time is allotted for public speakers at the Commission meeting.

Public speaking is organized using a speaker registration process and time limits. To accommodate as much input as possible from those attending, the Chairman reserves the right to designate the amount of time given to each topic and speaker. To ensure adequate time to address the business needs of the Commission, there will be no more than two hours of public comment on items not on the agenda at this meeting. Public comment on items not on the agenda will be heard at the end of the second day, Feb. 22. The deadline for registration to speak on items not on the agenda is 10 a.m. on Feb. 22. 

For the full Feb. 21-22 agenda and links to background reports, go to MyFWC.com/Commission and select “Commission Meetings.” Those who cannot attend can follow coverage at Twitter.com/MyFWC (@MyFWC) and sign up for news updates at MyFWC.com. Check the Florida Channel for possible live video coverage at TheFloridaChannel.org.