Carter welcomes new 14-day red snapper season following efforts to expand fishing access
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today welcomed NOAA Fisheries’ announcement of a new 14-day recreational red snapper fishing season for eligible Georgia anglers from October 9 through October 22, 2026.
The announcement follows efforts led by Rep. John Rutherford (R-FL), alongside Carter and other South Atlantic lawmakers, to expand recreational fishing access after litigation halted the states’ planned summer seasons.
“Georgia’s fishermen deserve greater access to the waters they know best, and this 14-day season is an important step forward,” said Rep. Carter. “I want to thank Congressman John Rutherford for his leadership on this issue, along with President Trump, Secretary Lutnick, NOAA, Governor Kemp, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for their work to get our anglers back on the water. I’m proud to have worked alongside them to fight for our fishermen and coastal communities, and we’re going to keep pushing for even greater access.”
In June 2025, Carter led members of Georgia’s House Republican delegation in urging Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to support efforts by Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina to secure greater authority over recreational red snapper management.
Under NOAA’s newly issued permits, eligible Georgia anglers will have access to the October 9–22 season. NOAA and participating states will review harvest data afterward to determine whether an additional fishing opportunity may be available in December.
