What is the size limit for Red Snapper in Florida?

The current FWC size limit for Red Snapper in Florida is 16" TL minimum (Gulf); 20" TL minimum (Atlantic). Always confirm at MyFWC.com before keeping a fish — regulations can change on short notice.

Red Snapper in Florida — Regs, Seasons & Tips

Q: What is the bag limit for Red Snapper in Florida?

The current FWC daily bag limit for Red Snapper in Florida is 2 per person / day (Gulf). Included in the 10-snapper aggregate. Atlantic: 1 per person when open. Charter captain and crew: zero..

Current FWC regulations

Season

Gulf state and federal waters — Private recreational anglers

2026: May 22 – Jul 31 daily; additional fall/holiday days beginning Sep 1 – Jan 4, 2027 (140-day season)

Gulf federal waters — Federal charter/headboat

2026: Jun 1 – Oct 26

Atlantic state and federal waters

2026 season (May 22 – Jun 20 + Oct weekends) halted by federal court injunction May 21, 2026. Currently closed pending litigation — verify at MyFWC.

Size limit

16" TL minimum (Gulf); 20" TL minimum (Atlantic)

Bag limit

2 per person / day (Gulf). Included in the 10-snapper aggregate. Atlantic: 1 per person when open. Charter captain and crew: zero.

Legal gear

Non-stainless circle hooks required when using natural bait for reef fish beyond state waters. Descending device required on board.

Notes

State Reef Fish Angler designation (free, annual) required for private anglers 16+ fishing for red snapper, gray triggerfish, gag, greater amberjack, or lesser amberjack from a private vessel in Gulf state and federal waters. Season dates and rules change frequently — always verify current rules at MyFWC before your trip.

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

Gulf private recreational season 2026: May 22 – July 31 daily, plus fall weekend sessions (Sept-Dec). Verify at MyFWC before every trip — dates shift.

Best baits and tackle

Live pinfish, cigar minnows, threadfin herring. Cut bait: bonito, squid. Vertical jigs work great in deeper water.

Where to find them

Structure in 60-300+ ft: wrecks, ledges, artificial reefs, natural bottom. Best water depths: 80-180 ft along the Gulf reef line.

Sources

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.