Now, more than ever, anglers in the Gulf of Mexico region need to make their voices heard in support of improved access to one of the region’s most important fisheries – red snapper. Read on to learn how you can help. A landmark rule currently being considered by the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council would shift a larger allocation of future red snapper quotas to the recreational sector, which will result in greater opportunities for you, your friends and your family to enjoy time on the water in pursuit of this iconic fish.
However, commercial fishermen and environmental organizations are mobilizing to oppose this long-overdue effort, claiming that the current allocation, which is based on 30 year old criteria, is somehow still relevant. Anglers throughout the Gulf of Mexico region need to stand together in unison and tell the Gulf Council that the current inequitable allocation must be fixed NOW.
The most influential way to weigh in is to attend one of the upcoming public hearings in your area.
Alabama
- March 11, 6pm–9pm
Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel
64 South Water Street
Mobile, AL 36602
Florida:
- March 12, 6pm–9pm
Holiday Inn Select
2001 N. Cove Boulevard
Panama City, FL 32405
- March 24, 6pm–9pm
Hilton Carillon St. Petersburg
950 Lake Carillon Drive
St. Petersburg, FL 33716
Mississippi:
- March 12, 6pm–9pm
Courtyard Marriott Gulfport Beachfront
1600 E. Beach Boulevard
Gulfport, MS 39501
Click here for suggested talking points to present at the public hearings.
If you are unable to attend one of the public hearings, you can send in your comments electronically.
This is one of the most important management changes that the Gulf Council has considered in some time, so please do your part to make sure the right decision is made. Your participation is vitally important to ensuring that the recreational fishing community finally gets its fair share of the red snapper allocation.
Thank you for doing your part to KeepAmericaFishing!