FLORIDA, (WMBB) – This year’s red snapper season has been announced, and it’s set to be record-breaking.

Governor Ron DeSantis announced on Monday that the season will be expanded. The 2026 Gulf season will span 140 days, making it the longest red snapper season since the state assumed management.

“Florida is the most angler-friendly state in the nation, and under my leadership, we are committed to expanding and protecting recreational fishing opportunities. With a record 39-day Atlantic red snapper season and a record-breaking 140-day Gulf red snapper season, Florida is empowering our anglers, protecting our waters, and strengthening our coastal economy. And this is just the beginning,” DeSantis said.

The dates for the summer and fall seasons can be found below.

Summer Season: May 22 (Memorial Day Weekend) through July 31

Fall Season:

Sept. 1 – Oct. 4 (Consecutively)

October 9 – 11, 16 – 18, 23 – 25, 30 – November 1 (3-day weekends)

November 7 – 8, 14 – 15, 21 – 22 (2-day weekends)

November 26 – 29 (Thanksgiving weekend)

December 5 – 6, 12 – 13, 19 – 20 (2-day weekends)

December 25 – 27 (Christmas weekend)

January 1 – 4 (Consecutively)

Officials said the expansion is a result of federal approval of the state’s Exempted Fishing Permit or ‘EFP’, which granted the state management in both state and federal waters.

“Florida’s EFP is a monumental step in turning Atlantic red snapper conservation success into a management success story. ASA is grateful to Governor DeSantis for leading the way on red snapper management that delivers better data and better access to this world-class fishery for Florida anglers.  Southeast Fisheries Policy Director for the American Sportfishing Association, Martha Guyas said.

State officials believe the season’s increased expansion will generate economic activity.

“Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Florida appreciates Governor DeSantis’ leadership and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) direction in expanding recreational fishing opportunities for red snapper. These exempted fishing permits will give Florida anglers and their families greater access to harvest red snapper, reduce reliance on a limited two-day season, and provide more flexibility for a better experience on the water,” CCA Florida Director of Advocacy Trip Aukeman said.

Along with the Gulf red snapper season, the Atlantic red snapper season has been expanded to 39 days.

Those dates can be found below.

Summer Season: May 22 (Memorial Day Weekend) through June 20

Fall Season: Three-day weekends in October (October 2–4, 9–11, and 16–18)

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