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Georgia was already going to see plenty of anglers this summer, but now they have even more reason to go fishing this season.
On Friday, President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that his administration approved state permits for the 2026 red snapper season with much larger windows for fishing.
“For years, our Great Fishermen have been punished with very short federal fishing seasons despite record high fish populations and the states begging to oversee these permits,” Trump wrote. “We love and respect our fishermen and, unlike the Democrats, will only do good for them.”
When is Georgia red snapper season 2026?
Georgia anglers will be able to fish for red snapper from July 1 through Aug. 31. The state’s department of natural resources said via news release that, traditionally, the season has been limited to just a few days due to data uncertainty. But, if Georgia can show proficiency in data collection, the longer season could be extended for two more years.
Red snapper fishing laws
Anglers may keep only one red snapper per day. They must register their trips prior to departure using the Georgia DNR app, which will be released at a later date. They must also report their catch within 24 hours.
Georgia DNR coastal resources director Doug Haymans said “This is a major step forward for Georgia anglers….If anglers want longer, more reliable seasons, we need better data—and that comes directly from them. Reporting through the app is how anglers can help shape the future of red snapper fishing in Georgia.”
Reactions to expanded red snapper fishing season
Gov. Brian Kemp said on his social media platforms “Thank you to President Trump for putting the power to conserve and manage this key fish population back where it belongs – in the hands of those who know the region best. Looking forward to Red Snapper season opening soon!”
Florida and the Carolinas’ governors have shared similar statements of excitement and praise.
However, when these moves were being considered in February, the US-based advocacy group Ocean Conservancy put out a statement of opposition, writing as a group “Overfishing drove the red snapper population to just 11% of its historical abundance; in response, seasons were reduced as part of a rebuilding plan set to last through 2044. These new exemptions risk undermining the progress made to restore this stock and allow sustainable fishing opportunities.”
Where are red snapper in Georgia?
According to NOAA, red snapper are generally found 30-620 feet deep in the Gulf of America and along the east coast. They are rare north of the Carolinas.
Larval red snapper swim freely within the water column. Juveniles live in shallow waters over sandy or muddy bottom habitat. Adults live on the bottom, usually near hard structures on continental shelf that have moderate to high relief (rocks, ledges, reefs, etc), sloping soft-bottom areas, and limestone deposits.
What do red snapper eat?
Red snapper eat fish, shrimp, crab, worms, cephalopods (octopus or squid), and some plankton (tiny floating plants and animals).
Best way to cook red snapper
Chef and host of Travel Channel’s “Bizarre Foods” Andrew Zimmern posted a video on TikTok of a recipe idea using red snapper:
How big are red snapper?
Red snapper may grow up to 40 inches long and weighing up to 50 pounds.
Miguel Legoas is a Deep South Connect Team Reporter for USA Today. Find him on Instagram @miguelegoas and email at mlegoas@gannett.com.
