TAMPA, Fla. -- Due to the impacts of red tide in southwest Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife has issued a temporary catch-and-release for snook and redfish in certain areas. 

  • Snook, redfish catch-and-release only in red tide areas
  • FWC order temporary through Sept. 26
  • Info on FWC order

From the northernmost point of Anna Maria Island in Manatee County to Gordon Pass in Collier County, if you catch a snook or redfish you have to toss it back in the water. 

“I support Executive Director Eric Sutton’s decision to implement the Executive Order as we continue to manage this world-class fishery for future generations,” said FWC Chairman Bo Rivard. “We will continue working with our partners and will evaluate next steps at our Commission meeting the end of September.”

“We’ve seen the devastation to the redfish and snook populations in southwest Florida, and we support the catch-and-release initiative taken by FWC,” said Brian Gorski, Executive Director of Coastal Conservation Association Florida. “In working with the FWC on this initiative, we’ve heard support from members and guides throughout the state who also understand the need for such a change, to ensure that generations to come can enjoy the thrill of catching one of these iconic species.”

The order remains in effect until the next FWC Commission meeting on Sept. 26. 

Regulations outside of those counties remain unchanged, including the Sept. 1 snook season opening that occurs in other Gulf and Atlantic state waters.