The Yellowhammer State’s red snapper season is coming to a close.

The Marine Resources Division of the state Conservation Department said today the season will end Sept. 4.

“Weather is generally the primary factor in the duration of the red snapper season in Alabama,” said Division Director Scott Bannon. “Other than multiple days of excessive heat, the weather was very favorable for offshore fishing this year. Having a red snapper season that runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend is much better than the 3-, 7-, and 9-day seasons we had prior to states having the opportunity to manage their quotas.

“We thank anglers for continuing to report their red snapper, greater amberjack and triggerfish catches through Snapper Check. It’s an important tool that helps provide increased access to these fisheries.”

Conservation Commissioner Chris Blankenship said the season went well.

“It has been a good, long red snapper season in Alabama this year,” he said. “Under state management, we were able to have red snapper season open during the prime months for offshore fishing. It was exciting to see anglers steadily reeling in red snapper throughout the summer.

“ADCNR will continue working to ensure our citizens and visitors have access to the incredible red snapper fishery off the coast of Alabama.”

The quota for the 2024 season is expected to be larger than this year’s based on a rule awaiting approval from the U.S. Secretary of Commerce.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.