Tampa, Fla. (WFLA) — This is one of the most anticipated seasons for offshore anglers. American Red Snapper Season is officially open in the Gulf Coast!
These precious fish portray anglers from all over the country, and for good reason. Finding them requires serious offshore travel, but the rewards are absolutely worth it.
Amanda Holly joined Captain Ryan Amateurro and experienced it first hand by burning a reel nauty fishing charter from Tampa Bay. Our day began early and cruised over 80 miles offshore in search of deep waters and big fish.
“They are very popular fish here,” Colonel Amaturro said. “A lot of people are looking forward to coming here to catch these fish for months throughout the summer.”
Once we got there, it was time to rig. The red snapper isn’t loud. They will chase everything from squid to live bait to beeriner filets this summer.
“They will eat anything when they are fired on hunger,” explained Colonel Amaturro.
Look for rocky bottom or reef structures and look at the shape of its “Christmas tree” to fish discoverers. That usually means stacked.
Red Snappers engage in a memorable battle with distinctive headshakes and when they get on the boat, they have a fresh, delicious dinner.
“Big fish are fun to catch, but they don’t eat as well as small fish,” Colonel Amatoro said.
Amanda’s go-to recipe? Simple and delicious – Bake in salt, pepper and garlic flour at about 350° until the meat is easily peeled off.
This year’s season is longer than ever, with many opportunities including multiple holiday weekends.
Here is the date list for the 2025 Gulf Red Snappers:
Memorial Day Weekend: May 24-26 June 1 – July 31 September 1st 1-14 September 14th and after: All Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Veterans Day: November 11th Thanksgiving Weekend: November 27-30th Christmas Day
You will need a fishing license to catch and hold them. They must be at least 16 inches long and can hold two people per person.
To contact Captain Ryan Amaturo on Reel Nauti Fishing Charters, find him on his Facebook page or call (813) 928-6018!
