Office of External Affairs
U.S. Coast Guard

Date: Apr. 24, 2008

Contact:  LTJG Isaac Mahar
(251) 441-5999

Violations Up With Opening of Red Snapper Seaon in Florida

Mobile Ala. - Coast Guard Sector Mobile has issued multiple fishing violations for recreational anglers illegally in possession of Red Snapper in federal waters since the opening of the fishery in Florida state waters on April 15. 

The Coast Guard would like to remind all recreational anglers that the Florida recreational Red Snapper season is open from April 15 - October 31 only in Florida state waters (those waters extending from the coastline out to 9 miles). 

The federal Red Snapper season is currently closed.  Red Snapper may not be possessed while a vessel is in federal waters, regardless of where the fish were caught, during a closed season.  The federal season is open from June 1 - August 5 for those waters extending from 9 miles to 200 miles offshore.  This difference in seasons creates the potential for the illegal possession of Red Snapper in federal waters. 

Anglers enjoying the open seaon in Florida waters are reminded that Red Snapper must be 16 inches in total length.  Bag limits are two per angler, excluding charter captain and crew. 

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