FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. — On Monday, Governor DeSantis announced the submission of a permit that would allow Florida to continue its oversight of the red snapper fishing season across the Atlantic Coast. The announcement took place at the Amelia Island Marina in Fernandina Beach, where DeSantis detailed that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has filed for an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP). This permit aims to transition the management of the recreational red snapper fishery in both state and federal waters to Florida, starting in 2026.

DeSantis emphasized the success of state management, saying, “State management and expansion of the Gulf snapper season have been incredibly beneficial for our Gulf communities, enabling numerous Floridians and visitors to enjoy the Red Snapper our waters provide.” He added that similar management on the Atlantic side would invigorate local economies, benefiting businesses like tackle shops, hotels, and restaurants, and supporting the entire recreational fishing sector.

The petition sent to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration outlines a 39-day summer fishing season for red snapper, with additional days in the fall. Governor DeSantis claims this schedule will result in a dramatic 1850% boost in fishing activity. The details of the proposed fishing periods are as follows:

Roger Young, Executive Director of the FWC, stated, “Florida has shown its capability in managing the Atlantic recreational red snapper fishery effectively.” Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, the state has consistently expanded access and opportunities for anglers in the Gulf, proving its commitment to both conservation and the fishing community. We are eager to apply this expertise to the Atlantic recreational red snapper fishery.”

• Summer: May 22 – June 20
• Fall: October 2 – 4, 9 – 11, 16 -18 

“Florida has proven it can effectively and efficiently manage the Atlantic recreational red snapper fishery,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young. “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, the state has expanded access for and delivered greater opportunities for anglers in the Gulf year after year—demonstrating a strong commitment to both conservation and the fishing community. We are excited and ready to bring this level of expertise to manage the Atlantic recreational red snapper fishery.”

Those interested in partaking in the red snapper season are required to be registered as a State Reef Fish Angler, which can be completed through the FWC.

In June 2025, DeSantis was joined by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce, where they claimed that the red snapper is no longer overfished.