Details Announced For Red Snapper Season

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries recently announced the details of the 2023 Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper Recreational for-Hire Season, OBA reported. The red snapper season for vessels with a federal for-hire reef fish permit will run for 85 days in the federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The season officially commences at 12:01 a.m. on June 1 and concludes at 12:01 a.m. on August 25. Private anglers get 10 days and should consult their respective state agencies for specific dates related to the private angling season in both state and federal waters. The determination of the season duration is based on analysis and allocation of the red snapper total recreational quota, which stands at 7,546,000 pounds whole weight. This quota is divided between the private angling and for-hire components, with 57.7% allocated to private anglers and 42.3% to for-hire vessels. The red snapper fishing season opening is a highly anticipated event for both locals and tourists who love fishing, OBA said. Charter fishing is a prominent attraction in Orange Beach, drawing many visitors and having a large economic impact.