03/05/2026
Reminder- Action Needed To Help Secure a 39-Day Atlantic Red Snapper Season in 2026
Dear Florida Angler,
Florida is fighting for a 39-day Atlantic red snapper season in 2026—and we need you to speak up.
Public comment is open through Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
Here is the link to the comment section:
https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/NOAA-NMFS-2026-0496-0005
The Atlantic red snapper population is at record levels of abundance. The stock is healthy, not overfished, and not undergoing overfishing. Yet despite that reality, federal management has limited Florida anglers to just one or two days in recent years.
That does not reflect what anglers are seeing on the water.
To fix this, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has submitted an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA Fisheries).
If approved, Florida’s proposal would:
Test improved, state-led recreational data collection
Provide more accurate harvest information
Strengthen long-term management decisions
Allow for a proposed 39-day Atlantic red snapper recreational season in 2026
NOAA Fisheries is now accepting public comment through Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
Comment Box
You may copy, paste, and personalize the message below:
I support the approval of Florida’s Exempted Fishing Permit to test improved state-led data collection and management for Atlantic red snapper. The Atlantic red snapper population is healthy and abundant, and recreational access should reflect current stock conditions. Florida’s proposal would improve data accuracy, strengthen accountability, and allow for a 39-day recreational season in 2026.
Please approve Florida’s EFP so anglers can benefit from better management and expanded access.
Note: All official comments must be submitted through the federal e-Rulemaking portal or by mail.
https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/NOAA-NMFS-2026-0496-0005
