Gulf Anglers Get Early End to Amberjack Season in 2026
Published Date: 6/1/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting September 1, 2026, recreational fishers in the Gulf of America can catch greater amberjack, but the season will close early on October 14, 2026, to protect the fish population. This temporary closure lasts until July 31, 2027, helping keep amberjack numbers healthy for future fun. If you love fishing, plan your trips before mid-October to avoid missing out!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Greater Amberjack Recreational Closure Dates
If you fish recreationally for greater amberjack in the Gulf of Mexico, the 2026 season is open from September 1, 2026 through October 13, 2026 and then closes on October 14, 2026. The recreational closure lasts through July 31, 2027, during which the bag and possession limits for greater amberjack are zero.
Charter/Headboat Operators Face Harvest Prohibition
If your vessel holds a Federal charter vessel/headboat permit for Gulf reef fish, you may not possess greater amberjack in state waters during the closure that begins October 14, 2026 and runs through July 31, 2027. The rule also sets bag and possession limits to zero for greater amberjack during the closure, and NMFS said operators who book trips need notice to adjust plans.
Recreational Harvest Quota Triggered Closure
NMFS projected recreational landings of greater amberjack would reach the recreational annual catch target (ACT) of 335,320 lb (152,099 kg) by October 14, 2026, triggering the accountability measure that closes the recreational fishery. The recreational annual catch limit (ACL) for Gulf greater amberjack is 404,000 lb.
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