(TALLAHASSEE, Fla.) – At its meeting today in Havana, Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved the 2017 recreational red snapper season in Gulf of Mexico state waters. The 78-day season will be open for Saturdays and Sundays starting May 6. On May 27, the season will be open continuously through July 9. It will then reopen for Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in September and October, plus Labor Day.

"In contrast to federal fisheries management, which has resulted in limited-to-zero recreational red snapper fishing days in Florida's federal waters, the FWC has done outstanding work balancing fishing access with sustainability. We are thankful for the Commission's dedication to maintaining recreational fishing opportunities for red snapper in state waters," said Gary Jennings, Director of Keep Florida Fishing®.

"Through sound, science-based fisheries management, the FWC has helped Florida achieve its reputation as the Fishing Capital of the World. We are proud to have a state agency that considers all stakeholders, including Florida's 3 million recreational anglers who contribute $53.3 million to conservation efforts through fishing licenses and excise taxes," said Kellie Ralston, Florida Fishery Policy Director of the American Sportfishing Association (ASA).

Ken Haddad, ASA's Marine Fisheries Advisor and former FWC Executive Director, attended the Commission meeting and spoke about a new report providing alternative management options for Gulf red snapper that may improve recreational fishing access. The report was produced by the Gulf Angler Focus Group Initiative, which is made up of leading recreational fishing organizations including ASA.

About Keep Florida Fishing®
Keep Florida Fishing® is an advocacy arm of the American Sportfishing Association with the goal of ensuring Florida anglers have clean waters, abundant fisheries and access to both. Learn more at www.KeepFloridaFishing.org. Find Keep Florida Fishing on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.