What is the size limit for Mangrove (Gray) Snapper in Florida?

The current FWC size limit for Mangrove (Gray) Snapper in Florida is 10" TL minimum (state waters); 12" TL minimum (federal waters). Always confirm at MyFWC.com before keeping a fish — regulations can change on short notice.

What is the bag limit for Mangrove (Gray) Snapper in Florida?

The current FWC daily bag limit for Mangrove (Gray) Snapper in Florida is 5 per person / day (state waters); 10 per person / day (federal waters). Included in the 10-snapper aggregate bag limit..

When is Mangrove (Gray) Snapper season in Florida?

Statewide: Year-round. Season windows vary by FWC management region.

Mangrove (Gray) Snapper in Florida — Regs, Seasons & Tips

Current FWC regulations

Season

Statewide

Year-round

Size limit

10" TL minimum (state waters); 12" TL minimum (federal waters)

Bag limit

5 per person / day (state waters); 10 per person / day (federal waters). Included in the 10-snapper aggregate bag limit.

Legal gear

Hook and line, spears, gigs. Circle hooks required for natural bait in federal reef fish waters.

Notes

Special regulations apply in Biscayne National Park. Fish must remain in whole condition until landed.

These limits are summarized from public FWC data and reviewed monthly. Florida regulations can change on short notice — always verify at MyFWC.com/Fishing before keeping a fish.

Best time to fish

Nighttime inshore around lit docks and bridges. Offshore spawning aggregations peak in summer (June-August) around full and new moons.

Best baits and tackle

Live shrimp, small pilchards, greenbacks, threadfins. Cut bait: squid, sardines. Small jigs and DOA shrimp work too.

Where to find them

Mangrove roots, dock pilings, bridge shadow lines, artificial reefs, ledges 40-100 ft, offshore wrecks.

Sources

FWC — Snappers

Cross-referenced with the FWC Saltwater Regulations and FWC Freshwater Regulations. Reviewed July 2026.

Species photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons contributors and public agencies (USFWS / NOAA / state fisheries). Licensed CC-BY, CC-BY-SA, or public domain.