The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, meeting in Baton Rouge last week, voted for an 11 day Red Snapper season for 2014 in Federal Waters. Area fisherman were all expecting a 40 day plus season that was consistent with the past several years and their dissapointment with Red Snapper management is turning to anger.
The Red Snapper fishery has been governed by a "share" program for the past several years. Commercial fisherman, who sell their catch to restaurants and markets around the world, are allocated 49% while Recreational fisherman, including charter boats, receive the remaining 51%. The performance to the allocation is "estimated" since catches are not required to be weighed and recorded.
The vote was not absent of controversy as Council members were forced to vote FOR the proposal by a U.S. District Court judge's decision on March 27. Â Commercial fisherman had filed suit alleging that the Recreational group had failed to manage their share properly and constantly exceeded their quota. Â The judge agreed and forced the approval of the shortened season.
2014 Red Snapper State Season - Destin
The state season has been proposed to run 52 days, starting on May 24 and ending July 24. State waters extend 9 nautical miles from shoreline where the water is typically shallower and habitat less plentiful. Â Fish are still plentiful but a little smaller. Â Anglers are allowed to keep 2 fish, at least 16 inches long, each day.
Red Snapper have thin bodies, medium sized scales, and spiny dorsal fins. They are easily recognized by their reddish color, hence their name, and are popular targets for charter fishing in Destin. Â The white, flaky, mild tasting meat also makes them a favored choice at Destin's finest restaurants.Â
Fortunately, there are other great fising opportunities for anglers coming to Destin in June. Â For those that wish to deep drop, several species of Grouper can be found lurking around natural bottom or wrecks. Grouper is an outstanding eating fish as well. Those who prefer to troll, will find an abundance of King Mackerel, Wahoo, and an occaisonal Sail-Fish.
Posted by Tim Shepard - Broker on
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