FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis led a news conference in Fernandina Beach on Monday to announce a major proposal for managing the Atlantic red snapper fishery.
Speaking at Amelia Island Marina, the governor was joined by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Executive Director Roger Young.
“Fishing and boating are a big part of the state of Florida. It’s a big part of the culture of Florida. It’s also a very big part of the economy of Florida,” DeSantis said, noting that recreational boating generates $31.3 billion annually in economic impact, a 56% increase since 2018.
The state has submitted an exempted fishing permit (EFP) proposal to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to begin managing the Atlantic red snapper recreational fishery in federal waters starting in 2026. The proposal includes a 39-day recreational season for Florida anglers, mirroring the approach used for Gulf red snapper management.
The plan features a two-phase season: a summer season from May 22 through June, coinciding with Memorial Day weekend, and a fall season with three-day weekends in October.
DeSantis recounted the state’s success in managing Gulf red snapper seasons since taking over from federal control. Florida has steadily increased the recreational Gulf red snapper season from 87 days to a record 126 days in 2025, including popular holiday weekends and fall fishing opportunities.
To support fishing and boating, Florida has implemented tax holidays on fishing supplies and discounted hunting and fishing licenses, making it easier and more affordable for residents to participate in outdoor activities.