Snowy Grouper Season Snaps Shut Early in South Atlantic
Published Date: 3/21/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting June 9, 2025, recreational fishing for snowy grouper in the South Atlantic will close early to protect the fish after too many were caught in 2024. This means anglers have less time to fish, helping keep the snowy grouper population healthy. If you love fishing, plan ahead to avoid missing out and support sustainable fishing!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Charter and headboat trip scheduling impact
Operators of charter vessels and headboats that target snowy grouper in South Atlantic Federal waters must adjust because the recreational season closes June 9, 2025 and remains closed through December 31, 2025. NMFS states the notice allows these businesses to prepare for the change and to schedule or reschedule their trips; the next season begins May 1, 2026.
Snowy Grouper recreational closure
You cannot recreationally harvest or possess snowy grouper in South Atlantic Federal waters starting June 9, 2025 through December 31, 2025. The 2025 recreational season had opened May 1 and normally would run through June 30, but NMFS projects recreational landings will reach the 2025 recreational annual catch limit (ACL) of 1,713 fish by June 9, so bag and possession limits are zero during the closure. The next recreational season for snowy grouper begins May 1, 2026.
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Key Dates
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