The Gulf of Mexico’s most coveted bottom dweller, the Red Snapper, brings unparalleled excitement to anglers. For those fishing off the Texas coast, particularly from Galveston, understanding the annual Red Snapper season is key to a successful and legal catch. In 2025, Texas anglers are once again gearing up for a thrilling season, offering ample opportunities to reel in these prized fish.
Understanding the 2025 Texas Red Snapper Season: Federal vs. State Waters
Red Snapper fishing in Texas operates under a dual system, with different regulations governing Federal and State waters. It’s crucial to understand these distinctions to ensure compliance, especially when planning your Galveston Red Snapper fishing charter.
Texas State Waters (0-9 Nautical Miles Offshore)
Texas manages its own Red Snapper season within its state waters, which extend up to 9 nautical miles (approximately 10.35 miles) from shore. This offers a significant advantage for Texas anglers, as the Texas State Water Red Snapper Season has historically been open year-round for recreational anglers. This extended season provides ample opportunity to target these prized fish closer to shore.
- 2025 Texas State Water Red Snapper Season: Open year-round.
- Bag Limit: 4 Red Snapper per person per day.
- Minimum Size: 15 inches total length.
Federal Waters (9-200 Nautical Miles Offshore)
Federal waters begin where state waters end and extend far into the Gulf of Mexico. The federal season for Texas Red Snapper in federal waters is set by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council. This season is typically much shorter and more restrictive than the state water season, often opening in early June for a limited number of days.
It’s important to note that for Federal waters, regulations are different for private recreational anglers and anglers fishing from federally-permitted for-hire vessels, like a fishing charter.
The 2025 Red Snapper season in Federal Waters is as follows:
- Private Recreational Anglers: Open year-round.
- Federally Permitted Charter Boats (like Up Above Adventures): Opens June 1, 2025, closes 12:01 AM on September 16, 2025.
- Bag Limit: 2 Red Snapper per person per day.
- Minimum Size: 16 inches total length.
Important Note: Always check the latest regulations from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and NOAA Fisheries before heading out, as dates and rules can change.
Ready to Experience the Thrill of Galveston Red Snapper Fishing?
While understanding the Texas Red Snapper season and regulations is crucial, navigating the vast Gulf of Mexico to find the best spots and ensure a successful trip can be challenging. Many anglers, especially those seeking the larger fish in federal waters or wanting to maximize their limited time, find that booking a guided charter is the best way to ensure a productive and memorable experience.
Our experienced captains at Up Above Adventures are experts in the Galveston waters, intimately familiar with both state and federal regulations. We know exactly where to take you for the best Red Snapper action, provide all the necessary, top-of-the-line gear, and ensure a safe, memorable, and productive Galveston Red Snapper fishing adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions about Texas Red Snapper Season
When is red snapper season in Texas 2025?
For Texas state waters (0-9 nautical miles), the 2025 Red Snapper season is open year-round. For federal waters, the 2025 private recreational season is June 1, 2025-December 31, 2025. For federally permitted fishing vessels, the season also opens June 1, 2025, closes 12:01 AM on September 16, 2025.
What are the bag and size limits for red snapper in Texas?
In Texas state waters, it’s 4 fish per person with a 15-inch minimum total length. In federal waters, it’s 2 fish per person with a 16-inch minimum total length.
Can I catch red snapper in Texas state waters year-round?
Historically, yes, the recreational season for Red Snapper in Texas state waters has been open year-round. Always verify with the most current TPWD Outdoor Annual.
How far out are federal waters off Galveston?
Federal waters begin 9 nautical miles (approx. 10.35 miles) from the Texas coastline.
What’s the difference between private recreational and charter boat federal snapper seasons?
Federally permitted charter boats operate under a distinct “for-hire” season that may be different from the private recreational federal season.
