America’s Anglers Celebrate Exempted Fishing Permits and Extension of Red Snapper Season

The Department of Commerce announced a significant expansion of the Atlantic red snapper fishing season, increasing access for anglers across the Southeast and providing greater certainty for the recreational boating and fishing community.

"Today's announcement from Secretary Lutnick is a tremendous step towards restoring access and improving the long-term management of the South Atlantic red snapper fishery, which has been a top priority of the recreational boating and fishing community," said Frank Hugelmeyer, President and Chief Executive Officer at the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). "We value the Secretary's efforts to drive better, state-driven data collection that can deliver longer, more stable seasons while maintaining strong conservation outcomes. We appreciate the administration's continued efforts to empower states, modernize fisheries management, and protect access to public waters - a cornerstone of an industry that supports 812,000 American jobs and generates $230 billion in annual economic impact."

Under the new framework, the 2026 season will expand from just two fishing days to 62 in Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina, and to 39 fishing days in Florida. By leveraging exempted fishing permits (EFPs), these states can gather real-time information on catch rates and fish populations, enabling more responsive, tailored management that better reflects on-the-water realities.

Recreational boating and fishing stakeholders have long advocated for modernized fisheries management. Short federal seasons - sometimes limited to just a few days - create confusion for boaters and strain businesses that rely on a predictable fishing calendar. Expanding the season in these four states will improve access and provide more stability.

This progress reflects the leadership of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, NOAA Administrator Dr. Neil Jacobs and the White House. Their support for innovation and cooperative management is helping expand access while maintaining a strong commitment to fisheries conservation.

The Secretary's approval of EFPs marks a pivotal step to modernizing red snapper management in the South Atlantic, benefitting anglers and marine manufacturers nationwide. By incorporating state-collected data and adaptive management approaches, fisheries managers can better ensure healthy red snapper populations while supporting recreational access and economic activity.

NMMA applauds the Trump Administration, Secretary Lutnick and NOAA for their efforts to modernize fisheries management and extend the red snapper season.