Recreational anglers have scored a small but significant victory towards correcting Gulf red snapper allocation. During its August meeting, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council voted to increase the recreational red snapper allocation from 49% to 51.5% of the annual total allowable catch. The Council’s recommendation now goes to the Secretary of Commerce for review and final.
The current red snapper allocation (49% recreational, 51% commercial) has been in place since the mid-1980s and is based on out-of-date data. The Council has discussed but delayed action many times so this vote represents an important step forward in the long journey to address the many challenges in managing the now abundant red snapper fishery. As these recommendations move forward, count on KeepAmericaFishing to keep you informed. Until then, thank you again for making your voice heard.
