The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Marine Resources Division (MRD) has announced an extension of the 2023 private angler red snapper fishing season. The season will resume at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, September 29, and will continue for four-day weekends until the remaining federal quota is met.

According to MRD's review of landing data, 15,671 pounds of Alabama's federal red snapper quota of 591,185 pounds remain available for harvest. Scott Bannon, MRD Director, stated that the division conducts thorough reviews of landing reports and surveys at the end of each season to ensure accurate accounting of the red snapper harvest.

ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship emphasized the efficiency of state-level reef fish management in ensuring the sustainability of the fishery and providing quality outdoor recreation for anglers. He contrasted this with the federal system, which would take several months to determine the number of fish caught.

“Under state management we are able to respond very quickly to the data and provide maximum access to red snapper for our anglers,” Commissioner Blankenship said. “Under the federal system, a closure date would be estimated and then it would take several months, at a minimum, to determine how many fish were caught. We are able to make that determination in days. ADCNR will continue working to ensure our citizens and visitors have access to the incredible red snapper fishery off the coast of Alabama.”

Red snapper landing information from the 2021–2023 seasons is available at www.outdooralabama.com/2023-red-snapper-landings-summary.

ADCNR promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Learn more at www.outdooralabama.com.