An official website of the State of Georgia.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division is encouraging recreational anglers, charter operators, and other interested stakeholders to submit public comments to NOAA Fisheries regarding a proposed project that could improve recreational fishing data and expand future management options for Red Snapper in the South Atlantic.
NOAA Fisheries is currently reviewing applications for Exempted Fishing Permits (EFPs) submitted by state fisheries agencies in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. If approved, the permits would allow the states to pilot new state-led data collection systems and management strategies for recreational red snapper fishing that would otherwise be restricted under federal regulations.
Georgia’s proposal would allow the state to test improved methods for collecting information on recreational fishing effort, catch, and released fish during a proposed 62-day recreational red snapper season from July 1 through Aug.31, 2026, in both state and federal waters. The goal is to gather better data that can help inform a future long-term state management program for red snapper in the South Atlantic.
Under the proposal, participating anglers could retain one red snapper per person per day during the experimental season, with additional reporting requirements designed to provide more accurate catch information. The project would also collect biological, social, and economic data from the fishery.
Public input is an important part of NOAA’s review process, and Georgia anglers are encouraged to share their perspectives on the proposal.
How to Submit Comments
The public comment period is open Feb.13 through March 10, 2026.
Written comments may also be mailed to:
Mary Vara
Sustainable Fisheries Division
NOAA Fisheries Southeast Regional Office
263 13th Avenue South
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Comments can be submitted electronically through the federal rulemaking portal (or click button below):
- Visit Regulations.gov
- Search for docket “NOAA-NMFS-2026-0496.”
- Click the “Comment” button and submit your input.
NOAA Fisheries will consider public comments, recommendations from the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, and consultations with partner agencies before making a final decision on the permit requests.
Additional information about the applications and supporting materials can be found at:
https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/southeast/recreational-fishing-data/south-atlantic-red-snapper-state-data-collection-and-management
Anglers are encouraged to review the proposal and share their thoughts to help shape the future of red snapper management in the South Atlantic.
About the Coastal Resources Division
The mission of the Coastal Resources Division is to balance coastal development and protection of the coast's natural assets, socio-cultural heritage and recreational resources for the benefit of present and future generations.
Media Contact
Tyler Jones
Public Information Officer
Coastal Resources Division
Georgia Department of Natural Resources
tyler.jones@dnr.ga.gov
912-264-7218
