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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (WFLA) — During a bill signing on Friday, Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his disapproval of a recent federal court decision that halted Florida’s extended red snapper fishing season.
The United States District Court for the District of Columbia issued a preliminary injunction on Thursday, temporarily suspending exempted fishing permits that were set to allow Florida’s 2026 state recreational red snapper season in the South Atlantic. This season was initially scheduled to kick off on Friday, May 22, and last until July 31.
This injunction affected not only Florida but also other southern states, coming at a time when Florida’s recreational red snapper season was about to start, leading to frustration among state officials.
“It’s really disrespectful to issue a ruling when people have already made plans to come down and participate,” DeSantis remarked. “For many, this was a key reason to choose the east coast of Florida for Memorial Day weekend, instead of opting for another destination.”
Although NOAA Fisheries advised fishermen to consult state agencies for further details, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded strongly with a sharp statement.
“On May 21, 2026, a rogue federal judge sided with activists in an attempt to block Floridians from exercising their right to fish through the recently approved Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) for Atlantic Red Snapper issued by NOAA Fisheries earlier this month,” the FWC wrote.
While the ruling has kept anglers from fishing for red snapper in federal waters, the FWC said it has adjusted its operations to allow anglers to catch the fish in state waters, which include the waters three nautical miles off the coast. State law keeps the recreational bag limit to two red snapper per person with a 20-inch size limit.
“We’re not going to be involved in policing the federal waters,” DeSantis said.
If the EFPs are unfrozen by the courts, the FWC will reestablish the extended season.