The recreational harvest of snook will open September 1 in all east coast and most west coast management regions, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
The open season applies to Florida state and inland waters within the Southeast, Indian River Lagoon and Northeast management regions, as well as the Panhandle, Big Bend, Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay management regions.
On the West Coast, the Panhandle, Big Bend, Tampa Bay, and Sarasota Bay regions will remain open through November 30. On the East Coast, the Southeast, Indian River Lagoon, and Northeast regions will remain open through December 14.
Snook is one of Florida’s most popular inshore game fish. The FWC manages the fishery using a regional approach, evaluating seven key metrics annually to address local concerns and conditions.
Management region details
- Panhandle, Big Bend, Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay: Open March 1–April 30 and Sept. 1–Nov. 30. Closed Dec. 1–Feb. 28 and May 1–Aug. 31. Bag limit: one fish per person per day. Slot limit: 28–33 inches.
- Southeast, Indian River Lagoon, Northeast: Open Feb. 1–May 31 and Sept. 1–Dec. 14. Closed Dec. 15–Jan. 31 and June 1–Aug. 31. Bag limit: one fish per person per day. Slot limit: 28–32 inches.
Each region has defined boundaries, with specific rivers and tributaries either included or excluded from the regulations. Anglers should review the full guidelines before fishing.
For more information and complete recreational snook regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Snook.
