Tampa Bay target
Red Snapper
Use a controlled bottom presentation matched to depth and current, and verify the current season before keeping a fish.
Where
Offshore reefs, ledges, and structured bottom
When
Regulated seasons vary; verify current FWC rules · Plan around safe conditions and the current bite window
Bait
Natural bait and bottom presentations
Water
Moving water; current strength affects presentation
Make the first move practical
Do not rely on a static season summary. Check the species-specific FWC page before the trip and again before keeping a catch.
Before You Fish
Minimum 16 inches total length
2 per person within the 10-snapper aggregate; charter captain and crew: 0
Private recreational vessels in Florida Gulf state and federal waters; for-hire vessels without a federal permit in Gulf state waters only
Checked against FWC: 2026-09-29
Regulations can change. FWC is the authority.