President Trump Announces Approval of Red Snapper Permits for Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida

Last week, President Donald Trump announced the approval for all state permits of 2026 red snapper recreation. 

President Trump said, “WE JUST DELIVERED A HUGE WIN for our Great Fishermen and Anglers in FLORIDA, GEORGIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, and NORTH CAROLINA! We have just officially approved ALL STATE PERMITS for the 2026 Red Snapper recreational season. For years, our Great Fishermen have been punished with VERY short Federal fishing seasons despite RECORD HIGH fish populations and the States begging to oversee these permits. The incompetent Biden Administration tried to SHUT DOWN THE OCEANS to our Fishermen, entirely. We love and respect our Fishermen and, unlike the Democrats, will only do good for them. To all those who fish “Red Snapper” — TRUMP and NOAA are delivering for you. ENJOY!! President DONALD J. TRUMP.” 

The National Marine Manufacturers Association praised the decision calling it a win for American anglers.  

"Today's announcement from Secretary Lutnick is a tremendous step towards restoring access and improving the long-term management of the South Atlantic red snapper fishery, which has been a top priority of the recreational boating and fishing community," said Frank Hugelmeyer, President and Chief Executive Officer at the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). "We value the Secretary's efforts to drive better, state-driven data collection that can deliver longer, more stable seasons while maintaining strong conservation outcomes. We appreciate the administration's continued efforts to empower states, modernize fisheries management, and protect access to public waters – a cornerstone of an industry that supports 812,000 American jobs and generates $230 billion in annual economic impact."  

Under the new framework, the 2026 season will expand from just two fishing days to 62 in Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina, and to 39 fishing days in Florida. By leveraging exempted fishing permits (EFPs), these states can gather real-time information on catch rates and fish populations, enabling more responsive, tailored management that better reflects on-the-water realities.