Red Snapper (FWC) Florida Governor Ron DeSantis today announced an extension of the 2024 Gulf Red Snapper recreational fishing season, adding 17 e
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis today announced an extension of the 2024 Gulf Red Snapper recreational fishing season, adding 17 extra days for anglers to enjoy Florida’s waters. This extension allows families and visitors to continue fishing for red snapper throughout the holiday season, coinciding with the reopening of the 2024 Recreational For-Hire Season by NOAA.
“Because of our good state stewardship, we can offer these extra Gulf Red Snapper days during December,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Many Floridians are still recovering from the impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and I hope this extended season allows families to enjoy fishing together this holiday season.”
READ: Two Anglers Face Penalties For Fish Violations In The Florida Keys
The extension comes after a record 103-day Gulf Red Snapper season announced earlier this year. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) assures that these added days, made possible by Florida’s data-driven management, will not negatively impact next year’s season.
Here’s the updated fishing schedule:
- November 22-24
- November 28-30 (Thanksgiving Holiday)
- December 6-8
- December 13-15
- December 20-22
- December 24-31 (Christmas Eve through New Year’s Eve)
“We’re excited to offer anglers additional fishing days during December for Gulf recreational red snapper,” said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Executive Director Roger Young. “The holiday season is a great time to enjoy Florida’s iconic fisheries with family and friends.”
READ: Red Tide Blooms Persist In Southwest Florida, Fish Kills And Respiratory Issues Reported
This announcement follows Governor DeSantis’ recent initiative offering discounted fishing and hunting licenses, including:
- Half-price short-term licenses: Floridians can purchase annual and five-year multi-sport licenses for fishing and hunting at half the cost from October 25, 2024, to January 3, 2025.
- 50% off lifetime sportsman licenses for youth:
- Ages 4 and under – $200 (regularly $400)
- Ages 5 to 12 – $350 (regularly $700)
- Ages 13 to 17 – $500 (regularly $1,000)
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