JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – Thousands of anglers hit the waters Friday for their only opportunity to fish for Atlantic red snapper this year.
Red snapper season is the time many anglers wait all year.
“Red snapper were all over the place,” one of the participants said.
The South Atlantic season is so short because the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said there is still an overfishing problem and red snapper populations are currently under rebuilding plans.
That’s why Florida Fish and Wildlife was out today, making sure everyone stuck to the limit of one red snapper per person.
News4JAX rode along with officers Friday as they patrolled the water.
“We’re trying to target people that are moving inbound or something like that,” Officer Robert Lints said.
Some people were just excited to show off their catch of the day.
“Safety is paramount. You come out here enjoy the day. But we’ve had multiple incidents here especially over this last Fourth of July weekend. Boating on the influence is a big deal. We’ve had multiple accidents and overturned vessels,” Lints said. “Be sure you have all your safety gear and be safe out here on the water.”
Weigh-ins were still happening Friday evening for the “Oh Snap! Red Snapper Fishing Tournament.”
The angler with the biggest catch wins $5,000.
People can still fish for red snapper until midnight Friday.