Get Snooked: Florida Snook Season 2021
Starting on September 1st, Florida snook season 2021 is here. Unique to the region, snooks are one of the many reasons Florida is the Fishing Capital of the World. The reason anglers continue to get hyped for snook season is that this fish is aggressive, and one of the hardest fighting fish to catch. Also, its delicious taste is a big part of why they are so popular.
In this article, you will learn all you need to know about snook season and the rules and regulations across Florida.
What is Florida Snook Season 2021
Snook season is the time of year when snook may be legally harvested. Each year, this window of opportunity varies on a state-by-state and often county-by-county basis. In Florida, snook season starts on September 1st and runs until December 14th.
Snook season is a specific time of year that determines when snook can be caught and kept, as well as where they can be kept. It is crucial for anglers to understand snook season regulations because it affects them most directly. These rules and regulations are put into place to help the Florida fish population thrive.
Do You Need a Permit for Snook Season
If you are planning to fish for snook, there is good news and bad news when it comes to snook season. The good news is that all snook caught in Florida waters must be at least 28 inches total length and no more than 33 inches to keep. The bad news is that according to the FWC, as well as where you are located in Florida, you need a snook permit.
A recreational saltwater fishing license is required for fishing in saltwater when using most types of equipment. However, there are exemptions for some people.
If you catch a snook during the closed season in Florida, it must be immediately released. You also can not take home anything smaller than 28 inches in length. During the colder months, as well as spawning months, this species of fish is protected. This is because protecting fish while they are reproducing ensures great fishing year in and year out. Anglers are also only allowed one snook per day of the correct size to help maintain the population.
Where Can You Keep Snook
During season, you can catch and keep a regulation-size snook along the Atlantic coast of Florida, the Florida Keys, the Everglades, Biscayne Bay, including Lake Okeechobee and Kissimmee River. It is important to keep an eye on the rulings because they are forever changing.
Where Can’t You Keep Snook
Snook are only catch-and-release, even in season, on Florida’s Gulf Coast. This includes from Gordon Pass in south Naples up to the Pasco County line. This rule is in place due to stress on the snook population from a previous red tide outbreak. Furthermore, only hook-and-line gear is allowed when targeting or harvesting snook. It is also illegal to buy or sell snook.
Book Your Next Fishing Charter
If you are a South Florida local or are visiting from out of town, check out Found at Sea Charters in Boynton Beach, Florida. Our family and veteran-owned fishing and pleasure charter company offers a variety of saltwater experiences for you and the family.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or are looking to learn how to fish, you’re in good hands with Found at Sea Charters. We offer half-day and full-day fishing charters, as well as water sports packages and more. Contact us today to book your next trip.
Scott Acheychek