The private recreational angler red snapper season in federal waters is set to open on June 1. This eagerly awaited season offers fishing enthusiasts a chance to catch red snapper in both federal and Texas state waters, which remain open year-round.
Bag and size limits for red snapper will continue unchanged, providing clear guidelines for anglers.
In federal waters, anglers are allowed to catch two red snapper per person per day, with a minimum size limit of 16 inches.
These federal catches count towards the state bag limit, meaning no more than two red snapper can be in possession while fishing in federal waters.
Texas state waters, on the other hand, permit a slightly more generous allowance of four red snapper per person per day, with a minimum size limit of 15 inches.
While fishing in state waters, anglers may possess up to four red snapper at any given time.
Robin Riechers, Coastal Fisheries Division Director, emphasized the importance of these regulations in balancing fishing opportunities and conservation efforts.
“As always, our goal is to give Texas anglers as many days as possible fishing in federal water for red snapper while still maintaining our traditional yearlong fishery in Texas state waters,” Riechers said. “State management in recent years has allowed us to have longer seasons as well as greater fishing opportunities.”
Anglers are reminded of the 2022 DESCEND Act, which mandates that all commercial and recreational anglers possess a venting tool or a rigged descending device on their boat while fishing for reef fish in federal waters.
This requirement aims to reduce fish mortality by ensuring proper release of reef fish, including red snapper, that show signs of barotrauma.
Inspired by the DESCEND Act, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission adopted similar rules for state waters, underscoring the importance of these tools in conservation efforts.
Texas anglers play a vital role in successful fisheries management and are encouraged to use the My Texas Hunt Harvest App to log their red snapper catches.
The app not only helps in tracking harvested game species but also allows users to view their harvest history, save photos, and share their catches on social media. More information about the app can be found at My Texas Hunt Harvest App.
To keep the public informed, the Coastal Fisheries Division will announce the closing date of the private recreational season before the state’s allotted catch limit is reached.
Updates will be communicated through various platforms, including the Outdoor Annual, TPWD’s website, and social media accounts.
As the season approaches, anglers are urged to prepare their gear, familiarize themselves with the regulations, and contribute to the sustainable management of red snapper populations. With proper adherence to these guidelines, Texas anglers can look forward to a fruitful and responsible fishing season.
For further details on regulations and updates, contact Texas Parks and Wildlife Department at (830) 460-0710 or visit their official website.
