Added Opportunities for Gulf Coast Anglers this 2025 Snapper Season

The Gulf Coast is gearing up for an exciting fishing season, with big changes coming to the highly anticipated 2025 Red Snapper season. If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you’re in for a treat. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) has announced an updated schedule that promises more opportunities for private anglers and state-licensed charter vessels to reel in one of the Gulf’s most sought-after fish.

A Season Unlike Any Other

For years, Alabama’s red snapper season has followed a weekend-only format, limiting anglers to specific days for harvesting these prized fish. However, after extensive public input and feedback from local fishermen, the Marine Resources Division (MRD) has made an exciting change. The 2025 red snapper season will kick off on Friday, May 23, and remain open for seven days a week through June 30. This modification gives anglers more time to enjoy prime fishing conditions and take advantage of the warmer waters that make early summer fishing so enjoyable.

But that’s not all—once the calendar flips to July, the season will shift to a four-day weekend schedule, beginning July 4, and continue until the private angler quota is reached. This extended approach ensures that fishing remains accessible while also maintaining sustainable management of the red snapper population.

Why This Change Matters

Fishing is more than just a pastime along the Gulf Coast—it’s a way of life. The opportunity to spend more time on the water is something many anglers have been hoping for. The previous weekend-only system, in place since 2017, was helpful in maintaining conservation efforts but often left fishermen wishing for more flexibility. By opening the season for continuous access through June, the new plan caters to both local residents and visitors looking to make the most of their summer fishing trips.

Alabama’s private angler quota for 2025 is set at 664,552 pounds, a number determined by NOAA Fisheries. The extended season structure allows this quota to be reached more gradually, ensuring that anglers get plenty of chances to participate before the limit is met.

What Anglers Need to Know

As always, regulations are in place to ensure the sustainability of red snapper fishing. The 2025 season will be open to those fishing from shore, private recreational vessels, and state-licensed Alabama commercial party boats that do not hold federal for-hire fishing permits. It’s important to note that federal for-hire vessel regulations will be announced separately by NOAA Fisheries at a later date.

To keep track of landings, Alabama will continue using Snapper Check, an efficient system that provides weekly updates on the number of fish being harvested. This system helps determine when the quota is close to being met and allows for timely announcements regarding any season closures.

Essential Regulations to Keep in Mind

For those planning to take advantage of the extended season, it’s crucial to be aware of key rules and guidelines. The daily bag limit remains two red snapper per person, with a minimum size requirement of 16 inches in total length. Anglers aged 16 and older must have an Alabama saltwater fishing license, whether they are residents or non-residents. Additionally, all Alabama residents aged 65 and older or those with lifetime saltwater licenses must complete a free saltwater angler registration.

Anglers fishing for Gulf reef fish, including red snapper, must also possess an Alabama Gulf Reef Fish Endorsement. Even those under 16 years old, who are not required to have a license, must still have their catch reported. The owner or operator of any vessel landing red snapper in Alabama is legally required to submit a landing report for each trip before removing the fish from the boat. This rule applies regardless of where the fish were caught.

Reporting and Compliance Measures

Snapper Check plays a vital role in monitoring the red snapper harvest. All landed red snapper must be reported through this system before being removed from the water. This requirement applies to fish caught from boats, piers, and even non-powered vessels. To make reporting easier, anglers can use the Outdoor AL app, available for both Apple and Android devices, or submit their reports online.

It’s worth noting that participation in a Marine Resources Division (MRD) creel survey or being inspected by enforcement officers does not replace the need for Snapper Check reporting. Anglers must still complete the official process, even if they are questioned or surveyed by MRD staff.

Special Rules for Charter Boats and Federal Permits

Different regulations apply to various types of fishing vessels. Operators of Alabama Commercial Party Boats without federal for-hire permits must follow state season guidelines and hold an Alabama Gulf Reef Fish Endorsement for charter vessels. These vessels are limited to fishing inside Alabama’s 9-mile state waters line and must submit Snapper Check reports when landing red snapper.

For federally permitted for-hire vessels, different rules come into play. While these boats may fish in state waters on days when the state season is open, they are not allowed to fish in state or federal waters once the federal season is closed. Additionally, all vessels fishing for reef fish in federal waters are required to have a venting tool or descending device on board and ready to use, ensuring that fish returned to the water have a better chance of survival.

Preserving Alabama’s Natural Resources

Alabama’s approach to red snapper management balances conservation with opportunity. By adjusting the season based on angler feedback, the state ensures that fishing remains a sustainable and enjoyable activity for years to come. The Marine Resources Division continues to work toward responsible stewardship of Alabama’s natural resources, ensuring that future generations will also have the chance to experience the thrill of catching red snapper in Gulf waters.

This season promises to be an exciting one, with extended fishing days and greater flexibility for anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or someone looking to experience the excitement of red snapper fishing for the first time, 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year to cast your line. So, get ready, secure your licenses, and mark your calendar for May 23—the Gulf Coast is calling!