Gulf red snapper private recreational fall season runs on limited dates during Sept. 1

FWC photo of red snapper.

Gulf red snapper private recreational fall season opens
September 1, 2025

Florida’s 2025 Gulf private recreational red snapper fall season is open to those fishing from private recreational vessels or state-permitted charter vessels that do not have a federal reef fish permit. State-permitted charter vessels without a federal reef fish permit will be limited to harvesting in Florida Gulf state waters only.

The 2025 fall season will include the following dates:

September 1 – 14
September 19 – 21
September 26 – 28
October 3 – 5
October 10 – 12
October 17 – 19
October 24 – 26
October 31 – November 2
November 7 – 9
November 11 (Veterans Day)
November 14 – 16
November 21 – 23
November 27 – 30 (Thanksgiving weekend)
December 5 – 7
December 12 – 14
December 19 – 21
December 25 – 28 (Christmas weekend)

Florida’s ability to offer this season is made possible by the data-driven management approach of the Florida State Reef Fish Survey (SRFS) and angler participation in SRFS.

Anyone fishing for red snapper from a private recreational vessel — in state or federal waters — must be registered as a State Reef Fish Angler (with annual renewal), even if exempt from fishing license requirements. This free designation is in addition to your fishing license. Registration is available at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

For more on recreational snapper regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine.