TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – An eagerly awaited time has arrived for offshore fishermen — the American red snapper season is now open in the Gulf!

These highly sought-after fish attract fishing enthusiasts from all over the nation, and it’s easy to see why. Although you need a significant offshore expedition to catch them, the payoff is certainly worthwhile.

Amanda Holly teamed up with Captain Ryan Amaturo from Reel Nauti Fishing Charters in Tampa Bay to witness the action firsthand. The day began early as they ventured over 80 miles offshore, aiming to reach deep waters and find large fish.

“They’re a very sought-after fish here,” Capt. Amaturo said. “A lot of people travel here, and look forward to coming here to catch these fish for the few months through the summertime.”

Once on location, it was time to rig up. Red snapper aren’t picky — they’ll go after everything from squid to live bait to beeliner filets during these summer months.

“They’ll eat anything when they’re hungry and fired up,” Capt. Amaturo explained.

Look for rocky bottom or reef structures, and watch for that telltale “Christmas tree” shape on your fish finder — it usually means they’re stacked up.

Red snapper put up a memorable fight with their distinctive head shake, and once they’re in the boat, you’ve got yourself a fresh, delicious dinner.

“The big fish are fun to catch, but they don’t eat near as good as the smaller ones,” Capt. Amaturo said.

Amanda’s go-to recipe? Simple and tasty — bake it at about 350° with salt, pepper, and garlic powder until the meat easily flakes apart.

This year’s season is longer than ever, with plenty of opportunities, including multiple holiday weekends.

The 2025 Gulf Red Snapper list of dates is as follows:

• Memorial Day Weekend: May 24-26
• June 1-July 31
• September 1-14
• After Sept 14: Every Fri, Sat, & Sun through Christmas weekend
• Veterans Day: November 11
• Thanksgiving weekend: November 27-30
• Christmas Day

You do need a fishing license to catch and keep them; they have to be at least 16 inches long, and you can keep two per person.

To contact Captain Ryan Amaturo with Reel Nauti Fishing Charters, you can find him on his Facebook page here or give him a call at (813) 928 – 6018!